The most recent owner of this photo is the family of Laura Mae Chavanne. In efforts to preserve the history, 250 limited edition prints have been created from the original photo of the 1896-97 LSU Football Team. Photos of the original photo are included in the listing photos, but the original photo is not included with the purchase of a print. This print is 11x14" and is 1/250. It comes unframed with an authenticity seal on the back of the print as well as a Certificate of Authenticity signed by a member of the Chavanne family (1 of Laura Mae Chavanne's great granddaughter and namesake). Read more here on the history and significance of this team of 1896-97...

The 1896 LSU football team, coached by Allen Jeardeau, achieved a perfect 6-0 record and was co-champion of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA). This season marked the first time LSU officially adopted the "Tigers" nickname, a name derived from Louisiana's Civil War history. The team was also notable for being the first LSU team to play in the SIAA and for forfeiting a game against Tulane due to Tulane fielding an ineligible player.

Here's a more detailed look:

Undefeated Season and SIAA Co-Championship:

The 1896 team was the second undefeated team in LSU football history and secured a share of the SIAA title.

The "Tigers" Nickname:

The nickname "Tigers" was officially adopted for the team in 1896, a name inspired by the Civil War history of Louisiana and the fighting spirit of Louisiana troops.

Forfeit Victory:

The game against Tulane was forfeited by Tulane due to the presence of an ineligible player, with LSU being awarded a 6-0 victory despite Tulane leading at the time of the forfeit, according to the Fandom site.

Historical Significance:

The 1896 season was a landmark one for LSU football, marking their entry into a conference and establishing the "Tigers" moniker, which remains the school's identity to this day.