William H. "Bill" Barnes, Manager, St. Paul Apostles, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1889

This photographic print of William H. "Bill" Barnes, manager of the St. Paul Apostles, was made by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes. These cards, printed on thin paper stock, were originally included in cigarette packs – everyday ephemera, designed to be collected or discarded. The sepia tone and soft focus of the image speak to the photographic processes of the late 19th century. But let’s consider the context of its manufacture. Produced on a mass scale as a promotional item, this card reflects the rise of consumer culture and the industrialization of image-making. The very act of collecting these cards became a form of consumption, fueled by clever marketing strategies. This unassuming card, then, offers a glimpse into the intersection of sport, commerce, and the evolving landscape of popular culture. It asks us to consider the value we place on objects, and how they acquire meaning through circulation, use, and collection.