1918 Baseball Star Wheeler Doc Johnston in Action

This photograph captures Wheeler Doc Johnston, a notable baseball player from Cleveland, Alabama, during the year 1918. Johnston, primarily a pitcher, played for various teams in the minor leagues and was known for his skill on the mound. His career spanned from the early 1900s until the 1920s, making him a part of the formative years of professional baseball in the United States. In a time when baseball was becoming Americas pastime, players like Johnston contributed to the sports growing popularity.

Captured by the Bain News Service, this glass negative not only showcases Johnstons profile but also serves as a historic record of the eras athletic culture. The photograph reflects a moment in time when baseball was establishing itself in American society, influencing both the national landscape and everyday life. Such images help us understand the people who played the game, their uniforms, and the context in which they competed, providing valuable insights into the history of sports in America.