On February 7, 1897, the Washington Browns were formed as a charter member of the Class C Central League.
[1] Joining the Browns in the six-team league were the Cairo Egyptians, Evansville Brewers, Nashville Centennials, Paducah Little Colonels, and Terre Haute Hottentots.
[3] Severe financial problems forced the Washington team to disband on July 20, 1897.
With low home attendance, the local Athletic Association had contributed $12,000 to support the franchise before it folded.
As of July 19, 1897, the final day of play, the Browns were in third place with a 33–32 (.508) record.