(LOT 153)
c.1920's Babe Ruth at Boston, Mass. Police Department/Prison PSA Type 1 Encapsulated Underwood & Underwood Photo - Measures Approx. 8" x 10"
Throughout his illustrious career, it is no secret that the immortal Babe Ruth would utilize an abundance of his spare time to pay visits to anyone and everywhere; knowing full well the extent to which his adoring fan base craved to meet their incomparable hero. Whether it was signing baseballs for thousands of young aspiring kids or attending a myriad of public/sporting events, the great Bambino never wanted to disappoint his seemingly infinite number of followers. One of his more eclectic appearances was in 1925, when the Babe would actually pay a visit to the renowned Charles St. jail in Boston, Massachusetts. Built approximately in 1850, its extensive list of legendary criminals included notorious gangster James "Whitey" Bulger, former Boston Mayor/Governor Michael Curley, Elmer "Trigger" Burke, a New York contract killer who took part in the Great Brink's Robbery of 1950 and even the iconic Malcom X. Similar to the renowned country singer Johnny Cash's decision to pay a visit to Folsom Prison some 30+ years later (and record his classic album), the "Sultan of Swat" had no reservations about touring the prestigious Charles St. jail, after which he so eloquently noted: "it seemed more like a hotel than a jail!".

This ultra-rare Underwood & Underwood offering actually portrays the "Babe" during that visit, donning his formal attire and positioning his 6'2" frame against the Police Department's official height grid. Measuring approximately 8" x 10", you can see Ruth's head slightly eclipse the 6' marker, with the image revealing near-perfect resolution and contrast slightly favoring a darker tone. A few stray wrinkles do not impede the imposing central image and no obtrusive blemishes are evident. Ironically, Ruth calling the prison "a hotel-like establishment" ultimately became prophetic since the Charles St. jail was transformed to the prestigious 298-room Liberty Hotel in the early 1990's (the prison officially closed its doors in 1990). One of the most obscure Ruthian photos you will ever come across, it serves as a steadfast reminder of how his unparalleled personality and kindness prompted Ruth to satisfy virtually all of his captivated enthusiasts!

MIN BID $300
___