Jocko Milligan, Catcher, St. Louis Browns, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887

This is a trade card of Jocko Milligan, catcher for the St. Louis Browns, created around 1887 by Goodwin & Company for Old Judge Cigarettes. These cards emerged during a period of rising commercialism and baseball’s increasing popularity in American culture. Beyond being a piece of memorabilia, this card reflects the intertwining of commerce, leisure, and identity in the late 19th century. Note how the image is carefully posed, presenting an idealized version of athleticism and masculinity. However, it also reveals the commercial interests that shaped the presentation of these athletes. The card participates in the construction of celebrity culture, offering a glimpse into the era's evolving notions of fame and admiration. These cards both celebrated and commodified players like Jocko Milligan. They allowed fans to feel closer to their heroes, while also serving the promotional needs of the tobacco industry. They give us an intimate, yet mediated, connection to the players of the past.