Cap Anson, full name Adrian Constantine Anson, was one of baseball’s earliest stars and is considered one of the greatest players of the 19th century. Born on April 17, 1852, in Marshalltown, Iowa, and passing away on April 14, 1922, Anson played 27 professional seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Chicago White Stockings (later renamed the Cubs).
A first baseman and manager, Anson was known for his hitting ability, leadership, and competitive spirit. Over his career, he compiled a batting average of .334 and collected over 3,000 hits, becoming the first player to reach that milestone. His total hits are sometimes disputed due to varying record-keeping practices of the era, but his impact on the game is not in question.
Anson captained the White Stockings for many years and was a central figure in the development of the National League. His management style was influential, and he helped shape the professional game during its formative years. He led the team to five pennants during the 1880s.
Unfortunately, Anson’s legacy is also marred by his role in the segregation of professional baseball. He was a vocal supporter of racial segregation within the sport, and his influence helped cement the unwritten rule barring African American players from Major League Baseball, a ban that lasted until Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947.
After retiring from playing, Anson pursued various business ventures, and he wrote a memoir reflecting on his career. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939, securing his place as one of the game’s legendary figures, though his contributions to the racial divide in baseball continue to be a subject of discussion and controversy.
Custom Card
Image from an 1885 Chicago White Stockings team photograph
