William Van Winkle "Jimmy" Wolf, Right Field, Louisville Colonels, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This baseball card featuring William "Jimmy" Wolf of the Louisville Colonels was produced by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes. It was common in the late 19th century for tobacco companies to include baseball cards in their products as a way to boost sales. These cards offer a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the time, reflecting both the growing popularity of baseball and the pervasive presence of tobacco advertising. They were made during a time when Jim Crow laws were solidifying racial segregation and discrimination. It’s interesting to consider how these images might have reinforced or challenged prevailing notions of race, class, and masculinity. Despite their small size, these cards held a certain power in shaping perceptions and identities. Considering the context in which they were produced and consumed invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between commerce, leisure, and social identity in American history.