Ed Williamson, known for his towering presence both physically and on the baseball field, was a third baseman and shortstop who played during the early years of professional baseball. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing around 200 pounds, he was one of the larger players of his era, earning him the nickname "Big Ed." His career began with the Chicago White Stockings, a team that would later become the Chicago Cubs, where he spent the majority of his playing years.

Williamson's career started with the Indianapolis Blues in the National League, but it was with the Chicago White Stockings that he truly established himself. He joined the team in 1879 and quickly became a fixture in their infield. Known for his strong arm and defensive skills, he was a reliable player who could be counted on to make the necessary plays. His ability to play both third base and shortstop added depth to the team's defensive lineup.

One of Williamson's most remarkable achievements came in 1884 when he set a major league record by hitting 27 home runs in a single season. This record stood for 35 years until it was broken by Babe Ruth in 1919. It's important to note that during Williamson's time, the dimensions of the ballparks varied greatly, and the Chicago ballpark had particularly short fences, which may have contributed to his home run total. Nevertheless, his power-hitting ability was undeniable and made him a standout player of his time.

In addition to his home run prowess, Williamson was a consistent hitter, often ranking among the league leaders in various offensive categories. His batting skills complemented his defensive capabilities, making him a valuable player for the White Stockings. Throughout his career, he played alongside other early baseball stars such as Cap Anson, and together they helped lead the team to multiple National League pennants.

Williamson's career, however, was not without its challenges. Injuries plagued him, particularly in the later years, which affected his performance on the field. Despite these setbacks, he continued to play at a high level until his retirement. His final season was with the Chicago Pirates of the Players' League, a short-lived league formed by players seeking better pay and conditions.

After retiring from baseball, Williamson's life took a tragic turn. He passed away at the young age of 36 in 1894 due to complications from dropsy, a condition related to heart failure. His early death was a loss to the baseball community, as he had been one of the sport's early stars.

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