H. Furlong Baldwin, Former NASDAQ Chairman and Influential Banker, Dies at 92

EASTVILLE, Va. — H. Furlong Baldwin, a respected leader in the financial world who guided the growth of Mercantile-Safe Deposit and Trust Co. and served as chairman of NASDAQ, died Saturday at his Eyre Hall estate. He was 92.

The cause was complications from multiple myeloma, according to his family.

Born in Baltimore, Baldwin attended Princeton University before beginning his storied career at Mercantile in 1956. Despite having no prior experience in banking, he quickly proved his mettle, rising to become the company’s president at just 38. Later, he was named CEO of the parent company, a position he used to drive the bank’s expansion into commercial lending and strategically acquire smaller institutions.

Baldwin was equally impactful in his leadership at NASDAQ, where he played a key role in shaping the exchange’s modernization efforts during his tenure.

His legacy includes not only his professional achievements but his work and love of the Eastern Shore. He is remembered most for his stewardship of the historic Eyre Hall, but he was also a great champion of the Arts and an influential figure in the revitalization of Cape Charles. Baldwin was deeply committed to preserving historical integrity not just of Eyre Hall, but also of Northampton County.

He is survived by his companion of 37 years, Louise Hayman; a son, Severn Eyre Baldwin of Cheriton, Virginia; a daughter, Mary “Molly” Baldwin of Chelsea, Massachusetts; and a granddaughter, Grace Baldwin.

Funeral plans are pending with the Williams Funeral Home.