Object Name: Club, Golf
Other Name: CLUB, WOOD, WOOD SHAFT
Date: 1890
Description: Sheepskin grip, dark shaft and clubhead, no shaft stamp, maker’s mark, backweight, scared neck, horn insert, horizontally scored face.
Grip repositioned, replaced backweight.
Maker: FERNIE, WILLIE
Dimension Details: Overall: 45 3/4″; grip:10 7/8″; clubhead; 4 3/8″ x 1 3/4″ x 1 1/4″
Marks/Inscriptions: DRIVER by W. FERNIE, Troon, Scotland, PERIOD 1890, Donated by Alex Mathieson of “Rangefinder Napier”, Glasgow Scotland. , 8E (on card tied to shaft); W. FERNIE (maker’s mark)
Additional Notes: Willie Fernie, best known of three brothers, all professional golfers, club and ball makers. Father was also famous golfer. Began playing as child, was top golfer in a St.. Andrews Artisan Club by 15, won first professional tournament at 18. Dominant player in Scotland during 1880s. Won Open at Musselburgh against Bob Ferguson by single stroke in replay. Prosperous business in Troon. Patented several woods in 1890. Known for high quality wood clubs. One of advertisements noted he was a “seed and manure expert” as well.
Object ID: GM 152