For the four years before the formation of the American League, baseball’s championship was determined by a seven game series called the Temple Cup. With Wilbert Robinson as their captain, the Baltimore Orioles played in all four Temple Cups, winning the championship in 1896 and 1897.

In the collection is this telegram that encourages Robinson to win the championship, reading in part, “Let the good word continue until the Temple Cup is won!”

The telegram is dated September 21, 1895. Unfortunately for Robinson and the Orioles, the Cleveland Spiders won the Temple Cup that year. In each of the next two seasons, the Orioles claimed the Cup.

Tuxedo Tobacco pulled together the greatest baseball players of the day for this advertisement. Hailing itself as, “The Perfect Pipe Tobacco”, Tuxedo secured the services of “Wilbert Robinson, manager Brooklyn Nationals”. According to the advertisement, Robinson says, “Tuxedo is the ideal tobacco for me because I can enjoy a cool, sweet smoke without any bad physical effects. Tuxedo for mine.”.

Also featured in the ad are Hughie Jennings, Christy Mathewson, Joe Tinker, Tyrus R. Cobb, and G.C. Alexander.

Wilbert Robinson was so beloved during his time as Dodger manager that the team took on the nickname, “Robins” in his honor from 1914-1931. This letter bears the signature of Robinson late in his tenure, just before the start of the 1930 season. Note the intricate letterhead. Letters from this era provide an interesting glimpse into the game.

Robinson was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1945.