John A. McCarty, Pitcher, Kansas City Cowboys, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This albumen silver print was made by Goodwin & Company in 1888 as a promotional item for Old Judge Cigarettes. The card features John A. McCarty, a pitcher for the Kansas City Cowboys, and is part of a larger series that capitalized on the rising popularity of baseball in America. By the late 19th century, baseball had transitioned from a recreational pastime to a professional sport, with teams forming across the country and gaining devoted fans. Cigarette companies recognized the marketing potential and began including baseball cards in their packs. This was a clever tactic to promote their brand and engage with a broad audience. These cards offer insights into the social and commercial landscape of the time. The relationship between sports, advertising, and consumer culture can be further explored through archival research, providing valuable perspectives on the history of American popular culture.