Griffin, Center Field, Baltimore Orioles, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This small photographic print was made in 1888 by Goodwin & Company as part of the Old Judge Cigarettes series. It features Griffin, a center fielder for the Baltimore Orioles. These cards emerged during a time of rapid industrialization and urbanization in America, reflecting a growing interest in leisure activities like baseball. The image captures Griffin with a stoic pose. His arms are crossed, and his gaze is direct. He stands in what looks like a mountainous landscape, a stark contrast to the urban settings of the factories where the cigarettes were produced. The card served as both a collectible item and an advertisement, blurring the lines between commerce and culture. The production and distribution of these cards coincided with the rise of mass media and consumer culture. They offer insight into the ways in which sports figures were marketed and consumed, reflecting the values and aspirations of the late 19th century. They also act as a poignant reminder of how intertwined our cultural heroes are with commercial interests.