Welch, Center Field, Philadelphia Athletics, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

Editor: Here we have "Welch, Center Field, Philadelphia Athletics," a baseball card from the Old Judge series, circa 1888. The card's printed by Goodwin & Company. I'm curious about the normalization of the baseball stars as everyday celebrities at this time; what stands out to you about this artifact? Curator: Considering it was mass-produced to promote cigarettes, the image provides fascinating insight into late 19th-century culture. These cards helped popularize baseball stars, linking them with consumer products and shaping ideas of celebrity. What's striking is that "Old Judge" cigarettes facilitated both this early form of advertising but it equally documents an evolving society where sport and commercialism were becoming intertwined. Does it appear to elevate Welch as an athlete, or something else? Editor: It almost humanizes him – it looks more folksy, less polished than current baseball endorsements. How does that down-to-earth image play into the card's commercial appeal? Curator: Precisely! The photograph offers an unvarnished glimpse of Welch, countering any idealized notions. Goodwin & Co capitalized on the emerging interest in baseball and portraits that had visual and collectible appeal. Also the studio settings and costumes shaped and constructed celebrity by creating familiarity and aspiration among consumers. It bridges everyday experience and the extraordinary achievements of baseball stars. It's a fascinating nexus of commerce, sport, and the burgeoning culture of celebrity. Editor: So it was less about idealizing athletic prowess and more about creating a relatable, accessible persona linked to a brand. Thanks, I didn't think about that. Curator: And we can observe, as with most imagery, these historical artefacts offer an evolving reflection of shifting values and norms through popular culture and social narratives of the day.