Vintage 1913 Portrait of an Early American Sports Icon

This photograph features Carl Morris, a significant figure in the early 20th century American sporting world. Taken on November 24, 1913, by the Bain News Service, it captures Morris at a crucial point in his athletic career. Known primarily as a champion wrestler, he was a prominent competitor during an era when wrestling was gaining popularity, both as a sport and as a spectacle. The image showcases not just Morris himself but also serves as a visual record of the wrestling culture of his time.

Morris was recognized for his extraordinary skills on the mat, competing in various styles that highlighted his strength and technique. During this period, wrestling events were attracting large audiences, and athletes like Morris contributed to the growing interest in professional wrestling. The photograph, a glass negative, not only documents his presence but also reflects the historical context of sports in the early 1900s, where figures like Morris helped pave the way for future generations of wrestlers. This moment frozen in time allows us to appreciate the legacy of athletes and their impact on American sports history.