1918 Cleveland Baseball Star: Fritz Coumbe Portrait

This photograph features Fritz Coumbe, a notable figure in early 20th-century baseball, specifically connected to the sport in Cleveland, Alabama. Taken in 1918 by the Bain News Service, this glass negative captures a moment from a pivotal era for baseball, illustrating not only the players but the communitys passion for the game. During this time, baseball was rapidly growing in popularity across America, and with it, the lives of players like Coumbe became more intertwined with local and national identities.

Fritz Coumbe played as a pitcher in the Southern Association and was known for his contributions to the sport during a time when baseball was still establishing its role as Americas pastime. This image, with its historical context, offers a glimpse into the evolution of baseball and highlights the significance of players who helped shape local baseball culture. The use of glass negatives represents an early photographic technique that documented everyday lives, making it a valuable artifact for understanding baseballs legacy.