Henderson, Pitcher, Brooklyn, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1890

This is a baseball card of Henderson, a pitcher for Brooklyn, made by Goodwin & Company as part of the Old Judge Cigarettes series. These cards, dating back to the late 19th century in the United States, served a dual purpose. They were both collectibles and a form of advertising, inserted into cigarette packs to boost sales. This card offers a glimpse into the burgeoning commercialization of leisure and the popularization of sports. Note how the image of Henderson, caught in mid-pitch, becomes a commodity, tied to the consumption of tobacco. It reflects a time when the lines between advertising, entertainment, and even art were becoming increasingly blurred. To understand its cultural significance, you might explore the history of baseball, the rise of consumer culture, and the marketing strategies employed by tobacco companies during this era. Examining these cards offers a window into the social fabric of a bygone era.