AN INTERESTING NEW CARD

[Archive]

Posted By: Jay Miller 

I picked this cabinet up on ebay last week and I think it is the earliest known single image of Willie Keeler. The uniform looks like the same ones worn by the Giants in the Newsboy cabinets so I would guess this is from his 1892 or 1893 season with the Giants, prior to his going to Baltimore. The cabinet looks like it was later used for a newspaper or magazine article, the way it is marked up. Interestingly enough, on the back of the cabinet at the top there is written Wm. Keeler Right field Baltimores. I assume it was written in by the cabinets original owner, but I guess it could be Keeler's signiture. Does anyone know what his signiture looks like?

<>
<>

[Archive]

Posted By: Hankron

You are correct that it was used to make a picture for a magazine or newspaper.

[Archive]

Posted By: Julie Vognar

Wouldn't this rather be a photo than a card? Or can you call all cabinets "cards" because they're photos pasted to thick board?

Whatever it is, it sure is a nice one!

[Archive]

Posted By: Hankron

It's not a 'trading card,' if that's what you mean.

[Archive]

Posted By: BcD

I have a card somewhere with his signature on it in pencil and it is not at all like your neat pick ups notation. If I can find it I will send you a scan later.

[Archive]

Posted By: Jay Miller

Thanks Brian. I thought it probably was a prior owner writing his name, etc. on the back but I just wanted to check.

[Archive]

Posted By: James

Wow. regardless - this is a great acquisition. Early images of Keeler are stunning. Great find!

[Archive]

Posted By: runscott

Also, I think the price was great and agree that it must have been from his 1890's NY days prior to Baltimore - the image probably started seeing use while he was playing with Baltimore (thus the inscription). Fantastic find - now you have his first single image and his first team image!