Lot # 24: 1886 Detroit Wolverines Tomlinson Cabinet Charlie Bennett (Ex-Larry Twitchell Estate)

Rare cabinet card picturing Charlie Bennett as a member of the 1886 Detroit Wolverines. The photograph, taken in a formal studio setting, captures Bennett in a portrait pose. Bennett's name, position, and team affiliation ("C. W. Bennett, Catcher - Detroit Base Ball Club") are printed on the base of the mount, as is the name of the photographer, "Tomlinson - 236 Woodward Ave., Detroit." This particular cabinet comes with the unique provenance of originating directly from the personal collection of Larry Twitchell, who was a member of the Detroit Wolverines from 1886 to 1888. Charlie Bennett was something of a baseball innovator and is credited with inventing the catcher's chest protector. He is also widely regarded as one of the finest defensive catchers of his era. Although there were no formal awards for defense at the time, Bennett's skill is evidenced by the fact that he led the National League in fielding percentage at this position in seven of his 15 seasons. Bennett played 15 years in the National League, winning World Championships with both the 1887 Detroit Wolverines and 1892 Boston Beaneaters. Unfortunately, Bennett's career ended prematurely in 1893 when he lost his legs in a freak train accident during the offseason. In 1896, Detroit honored their fallen star by naming their field after him (Bennett Park) and Bennett annually "caught" the ceremonial first pitch for the Tigers every season until his death in 1927. The photo, which displays extraordinary clarity, has a few tiny surface indentations along the right edge. The mount (4.25 x 6.5 inches) has minor border and corner wear, as well as light toning along the top edge. In Very Good to Excellent condition overall.