Antique Hickory Golf Club – “THE NATTY” Driver – Auchterlonie, St Andrews Scotland – c.1895–1905

Offered is an authentic antique hickory-shaft golf driver made in St Andrews, Scotland, the historic birthplace of golf. The shaft is clearly stamped:

AUCHTERLONIE

ST ANDREWS

This identifies the club as the work of the Auchterlonie shop at St Andrews. Tom Auchterlonie (1865–1924) was the professional golfer at St Andrews and the 1893 Open Championship winner, and his shop produced high-quality hickory clubs during the golden age of golf.

The crown of the head is stamped:

“THE NATTY”

This is the original model name given to the club by the maker. In the late 19th century many Scottish clubmakers gave their drivers distinctive trade names, much like modern golf club models. “Natty” was a period term meaning smart, stylish, or well-made, reflecting the marketing style of the era.

Approximate date: circa 1895–1905, placing this club in the late gutta-percha ball era just before the widespread adoption of the rubber-core golf ball.

Construction details

• Hand-carved wooden driver head

• Crown stamped “THE NATTY”

• Hickory shaft stamped “AUCHTERLONIE – ST ANDREWS”

• Traditional scarf splice construction where the shaft enters the head

• Iron face insert secured with six early square-head screws

• Lead sole weight inserted into the bottom of the head for balance

• Original style hosel whipping

• Early leather wrap grip

• Length approximately 43–44 inches

These details reflect the classic construction methods used by Scottish clubmakers during the golden age of hickory golf.

Clubs from St Andrews makers such as Auchterlonie are especially desirable because they come from the town widely recognized as the birthplace of the game. Named model clubs such as “The Natty” are less common and add additional collector interest.

Condition

Good antique condition showing honest wear from age and play. The head, shaft, and face insert remain intact and display a fine period patina. Please review photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Collector interest

This club would make an excellent addition to:

• Antique golf club collections

• Hickory golf play collections

• Sports memorabilia displays

• Office or clubhouse décor

A fine and authentic St Andrews hickory driver from the turn of the 20th century.