Historic 1917 Chicago White Sox Baseball Portrait

This photograph features John Shano Collins, who played a significant role in early 20th-century baseball with the Chicago White Sox. Captured in 1917 by Bain News Service, Collinss image comes from a time when Major League Baseball was growing in popularity across the United States. At that point, players like Collins not only entertained fans but also became local heroes representing their cities on a national stage. Known for his skills both at bat and in the outfield, Collins contributed to the team’s successes during the era, including their championship season in 1917.

The photograph provides a glimpse into the world of baseball during the late 1910s, highlighting the games influence on American culture. Collins was a regular player during a transformative period for baseball, marked by advances in media coverage and fan engagement that would shape the sport for decades to come. His legacy, along with those of his contemporaries, left an indelible mark on the history of the game, marking a time when baseball was solidifying its status as Americas pastime.