Circa 1923 original Type I photograph of Wade “Red” Killefer, who spent a total of 35 years in organized baseball as a player, coach, manager and owner. As a big-league player from 1907-16 with the Tigers, Senators, Reds and NY Giants, he was the quintessential utility man, playing every position on the field except catcher. Most of his time was spent in the outfield or at second base. Another fun fact: Red was the first to ever come to bat at Wrigley Field when it opened in 1914. He later managed 25 years in the minor leagues, primarily in the Pacific Coast League with the L.A. Angels (1917-22), Seattle Indians (1923-27), Mission Red (1928-30) and Hollywood Stars 1938-39), and is a member of the PCL Hall of Fame.
Dated “3-28-23” on the back with a long notation in pencil. Hails from the 1996 Baseball Magazine archives collection, per the sticker. A puncture at top right corner has been restored. No other condition issues on the front to speak of. Lovely, pre-war portrait.
DATE/YEAR/ERA: 3/28/1923
GENERATION: First (original negative)
ISSUER/NEWS STAMP: Underwood & Underwood
CAPTIONED: No
DIMS: 8” x 10”
Encapsulated by PSA/DNA, Type I