1919 Cincinnati NL Baseball Star Portrait - Ed Gerner

In 1919, Ed Gerner, a notable figure in baseball, became a part of history with a glass negative portrait that highlights his contribution to the Cincinnati National League. The Cincinnati Reds, the citys major league team, played a significant role in shaping the early landscape of professional baseball in the United States. Gerners involvement with the team during this era showcases the talent that emerged from the National League, which was founded in 1876 and has been pivotal in the growth of the sport.

The image was recorded by the Bain News Service, known for its extensive documentation of American life. The photograph captures an essential moment in the rich tapestry of baseball history, reflecting the players and personalities that helped lay the groundwork for the sports future. In 2006, the Pictorial History Committee of the Society for American Baseball Research clarified the title and date of the image, ensuring its accuracy and importance are recognized. This snapshot serves as a tangible link to a past where baseball was already embedding itself into the American identity.