Allan Robertson

1815 - 1859

Allan Robertson was considered to be one of the first professional golfers and it is said he was never beaten as an individual when playing for money. He was such an outstanding golfer that in 1842 he was not allowed to play in a Challenge Match.  It was reported in the local newspaper that 'Alan Robertson was prohibited by his brethren from competing for these stakes on account of his superior play, it being the impression that they would have no chance in any contest in which Allan took part.' In the mid-19th century, golf pros made a living from ball and club making, playing for bets, caddying and tuition, Robertson being one of the most famous. He is generally regarded as being the best golfer from 1843 onwards, even after the arrival of the Park and Morris families. At the age of 44, the year before he died, Robertson went round the Old Course at St Andrews playing with a gutty ball with a score of 79, with a 3 at the 18th, the first ever round under 80. Robertson was considered the premier ball and club maker of the time, and exported his merchandise all over the world. It was a lucrative trade with an ever-increasing market. The business was originally set up by his grandfather, who passed it down to his son before Robertson himself finally inherited it. Today a Robertson ball carrying his stamp "Allan" is highly prized by collectors.

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