1914 Federal League: Pittsburgh Baseball President Barbour

This historical photograph features John B. Barbour, who was the President of the Pittsburgh team in the Federal League during the 1914 season. Under Barbours leadership, the Pittsburgh team aimed to make a mark in a league that sought to challenge the established Major League Baseball. The Federal League, which operated from 1914 to 1915, was crucial in promoting baseball as a competitive sport, and it attracted many talents and fan interest during its brief existence.

The image itself is a glass negative produced by the Bain News Service, an early photography agency known for documenting news and sports events in the early 20th century. This innovative technique of using glass plates allowed for high-quality images that became essential in preserving historical moments. The photograph not only captures Barbour’s involvement in the fledgling league but also represents the transition in sports photography, offering a glimpse into a time when baseball was evolving rapidly as Americas pastime.