They were formed in 1871 by Boston businessman and Ashburnham native Ivers Whitney Adams.
The team was composed of former players of the defunct Cincinnati Red Stockings franchise, who were brought to Boston and kept the name with them.
Led and managed by baseball pioneer Harry Wright, the new Boston team would join the newly formed National Association of Professional Base Ball Players for the 1871 season and finish the year in third place with a record of 20–10.
Pitcher Al Spalding started all 31 of the Red Stockings' games and led the NA with 19 wins.
Infielders Outfielders Note: Pos = Position; G = Games played; AB = At bats; H = Hits; Avg.