The Following Lot Originates from the Jake Virtue Estate Collection (click here for info.)

Herman Long was the shortstop of the 1890’s Boston Beaneaters ancestors of the Boston Braves. Long was one of the first modern shortstops known for his range and skill at fielding his position. His desire to go after every ball hit in his general direction also resulted in a high rate of errors though this was often dismissed by his contemporary critics who noted his exceptional fielding ability. This exceptional cabinet photograph of Long was produced in the early 1890’s by T. Waldon Smith. The photographer produced a series of Boston ballplayers and this one was found in the collection of Cleveland Spiders first baseman Jake Virtue. In fact the reverse of the cabinet has “Return to J.K. Virtue 637 Vine St. Camden N.J. written by the ballplayer himself in pencil. Virtue has also hand written “Herman Long” to firmly identify the player depicted on its front. The image remains extremely clear and sharp with some edge wear and toning on its front and back from age.