A Civil War veteran, he is best known as the primary owner of the Louisville Colonels of the American Association in the late 1880s, during the worst period of the team's history.

Prior to the 1888 season, Davidson was named the Colonels' secretary-treasurer,[citation needed] and on June 6 he bought out most of the team's other shareholders.

[1] Two days later, Davidson relieved manager Kick Kelly,[2] with the team having won only 10 of 39 games played.

[5] Prior to the 1889 season, Davidson brought in Dude Esterbrook as manager,[6] while also seeking to sell the team.

[7] A special meeting of the AA board was called,[8] and Davidson was issued an ultimatum to strengthen the club or be forced out.