Ed Morris, Pitcher, Pittsburgh, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

This card featuring Ed Morris, a pitcher for Pittsburgh, was printed by Goodwin & Company for their Old Judge Cigarettes brand. These cards, mass-produced through photographic printing in the late 19th century, were originally included in cigarette packs as a marketing tool, connecting tobacco consumption with the burgeoning popularity of professional baseball in the United States. The card's sepia tone and studio backdrop reflect the photographic conventions of the time, yet the image also captures a shift in sports culture towards commercialization and celebrity endorsements. The inclusion of “Old Judge Cigarettes” in bold text serves as a constant reminder of the card's intended purpose: to promote the brand. To fully understand this card, researchers might explore the advertising strategies of the late 1800s. By examining these resources, we can gain insights into the cultural values and economic forces that shaped both the sport of baseball and the marketing practices of the era.