I love the write-ups on the players that are on the Harper's Weekly Woodcut of the 1885 Chicago White Stockings, including Cap Anson, John Clarkson, Mike Kelly, and Billy Sunday...
My favorite text is of Billy Sunday: "William A. Sunday, right fielder, who is the only unmarried man in the nine, is twenty-one years of age, and is a native of Iowa...."
He also happens to be the only one w/out a 'stash. I suppose this was important back in the day (being married and having a 'stash).
The paper also finishes Clarkson's write-up by saying: "When not playing ball he is engaged in the jewelry business, and is a steady, sober, and industrious young man."
Again, being sober seems to be important for the times.
Lastly, did you know that Cap Anson was 6'2" / 250 lbs. He was huge!
Sorry if this has been covered before on the forum, but I just loved reading up on these guys (using text from the period)! I'd love to see some other interesting write-ups about players of the 19th Century, if you've got it!
http://photos.imageevent.com/derekgr...rkson21131.jpg