Lynn Mills, Catcher, Milwaukee, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1888

This 1888 black and white photograph from the "Old Judge" series of trading cards depicts Lynn Mills, a catcher for the Milwaukee Brewers. The image, produced by Goodwin & Company, shows Mills in a baseball uniform, holding a bat, against a plain backdrop, characteristic of the photography of that time. As a trading card, it was meant to be exchanged and collected by fans, showcasing the emerging popularity of baseball in late 19th century America. This card, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the history of sports and trading cards, as well as the visual aesthetics of late 19th century photography.