C W Williamson, Shortstop, Chicago, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes

Art Historical Context

Step into the vibrant world of 19th-century baseball with *C W Williamson, Short, Chicago*, a gem from Goodwin & Company's iconic Old Judge series (N), produced between 1887 and 1890. This petite albumen photograph, measuring just 2 11/16 x 1 3/8 inches, captures Chicago White Stockings shortstop Charles W. Williamson in a portrait, emblematic of the era's emerging sports heroes. Issued as promotional inserts in Old Judge Cigarettes packs, these cards transformed everyday smokes into collectibles, fueling America's growing passion for "America's pastime." The Old Judge series stands as a corn...

About the Artist

Goodwin & Company · 1850–1950

**Goodwin & Company (ca. 1850–1950)** Goodwin & Company, originally established as E. Goodwin and Brother before the American Civil War, emerged as a prominent New York City-based tobacco manufacturer in the mid-19th century. Operating from the bustling heart of Manhattan, the firm built its reputation on popular cigarette brands such as Gypsy Queen and, most notably, Old Judge, which became syno...