William Franklin "Bill" Hart, Pitcher, Des Moines Prohibitionists, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

This black and white photograph from 1889 by Goodwin & Company features William Franklin "Bill" Hart, a pitcher for the Des Moines Prohibitionists baseball team. The image was created for the "Old Judge" series of trading cards, produced by Goodwin & Company to promote their Old Judge Cigarettes. The card depicts Hart in a baseball uniform, mid-pitch, with a serious expression. This photograph is a wonderful example of the type of trading cards produced in the late 19th century to capitalize on the growing popularity of baseball in the United States. "Old Judge" cards are now highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.