Cross, Catcher, Philadelphia Athletics, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This is a photographic print of Cross, a catcher for the Philadelphia Athletics, produced in 1888 by Goodwin & Company as part of the Old Judge Cigarettes series. These cards were originally included in cigarette packs, serving as both a collectible item and a form of advertising. In the late 19th century, baseball was rapidly gaining popularity as America's pastime. The commodification of baseball through products like these cards reflects a broader shift in American culture towards mass consumption and the commercialization of leisure activities. The image itself, with its straightforward depiction of a baseball player, speaks to the growing celebrity of athletes. By studying business records, team rosters, and the era's popular press, we can better understand the social and economic forces that shaped both baseball and the visual culture surrounding it. The meaning of this image isn't just in the depiction of a player, but in its role within a larger network of commerce and cultural values.