Though well-known among today's collectors as a 19th Century Hall of Famer, "Orator" Jim O'Rourke's post-playing career is nearly as interesting as his seasons in the majors.  Never truly able to get baseball out of his blood, O'Rourke took a turn as a National League umpire after retirement, then became involved in politics.  In 1895 he assembled an independent professional team called the Bridgeport Victors, hiring a Black outfielder named Harry Herbert, who played for O'Rourke for four years.  O'Rourke continued as a minor league player, manager, and league executive, dividing his time between baseball and his roles as Bridgeport fire commissioner and member of the Connecticut Bar Association, Elks Club, and Knights of Columbus.  In 1904, the 54-year-old O'Rourke joined the New York Giants for one final game, catching the pennant-clinching game, going 1-for-4 at the plate.

Though the card has been graded GOOD 2 (MK) by PSA, the overall visual appeal of the card is strong.  Image contrast is quite good for the issue, the bulk of the wear related to the edges and corners.  Some light foxing is visible on the back, as are some small pencil notations responsible for the qualifier.  An exceptional example of a key Hall of Famer from the Old Judge issue.