The rhythmic thwack of a hickory club against a gutta-percha ball. The earthy scent of leather grips and freshly cut wood. For some golfers, the modern game, with its titanium drivers and high-tech balls, lacks a certain soul. 

This is where the world of hickory golf steps in, a realm where tradition reigns supreme and the echoes of golf's past resonate with every swing. But who keeps this legacy alive? Let's delve into the fascinating world

of the last remaining hickory club makers.

A Bygone Era Reborn

Hickory golf clubs dominated the game from the mid-1800s to the 1930s. Crafted from persimmon wood with shafts made of hickory, these clubs demanded a slower, more deliberate swing.

The rise of steel shafts and metal clubheads in the 20th century saw hickory fade into obscurity. However, in recent decades, there's been a resurgence of interest in hickory golf. Players are captivated by the challenge, the connection to history, and the unique aesthetic of these handcrafted clubs.

The Artisans of Hickory  

But where do these hickory clubs come from today? Enter the last bastions of a bygone era – the small workshops and dedicated individuals who have chosen to preserve the art of hickory club making.

These are not factory production lines. Each club is a labor of love, meticulously crafted by hand using time-tested techniques and a deep understanding of the wood's properties.

St Andrews Golf Company

Leading the charge is the St Andrews Golf Company, perhaps the only manufacturer in the world that retains the traditional tools and skills needed to create brand new, authentic hickory clubs. Their workshop in St Andrews, Scotland, – the birthplace of golf –  is a testament to the enduring legacy of the sport. The meticulous process involves over 200 steps, from selecting the perfect hickory shaft to shaping the clubhead and attaching the grip with painstaking care.

Modern-Day Revivalists

There is a passionate group of hickory club makers. Tad Moore Golf of Selma, Alabama is a leader in reproducing clubs from this era. E combines his love for the game with exceptional craftsmanship.

Another is Josef Lauber of JBL Hickory Golf of Switzerland who crafts the only forged irons for Hickory Golf Play.

There are others who have small workshops that take original hickory clubs and revitalize them to original condition for play. 

Additionally there are many support companies such as McIntyre Golf Ball Company who replicates the ball from the early 1900’s to give one the feel for the way a ball rolled and felt. Still there are others who offer vintage clothing, and handcrafted accessories to complete the experience of how golf was meant to be played.

Beyond Commerce: A Passion Project  

However, the world of hickory club making extends beyond commercial ventures.  Independent club makers like Max Hill, based in Austin, Texas,  dedicate themselves to meticulously restoring and customizing vintage hickory clubs.

These artisans possess a deep knowledge of club history and a keen eye for detail, ensuring that these historical pieces are not only playable but also works of art.

The Soul of Hickory

What makes hickory golf so special? It's more than just nostalgia. Hickory clubs demand a different kind of skill set.  The slower swing speed requires precise timing and a focus on feel. The reward? A connection to the game's roots, a deeper appreciation for shot-making, and the satisfaction of mastering a bygone art.

A Community of Enthusiasts

The last of the hickory club makers are not just artisans; they are also  part of a vibrant community.  Organizations like the Society of Hickory Golfers (SoHG) connect players, collectors, club makers, and tips on restoring clubs.  Through tournaments, forums, and events, the SoHG fosters a spirit of camaraderie and keeps the hickory flame burning brightly.

A Look to the Future:

The future of hickory club making may seem uncertain, yet there are reasons for optimism. The growing interest in the game ensures a continued demand for these handcrafted masterpieces. Additionally, the knowledge and skills are being passed down to a new generation of enthusiasts, ensuring the legacy lives on.

The Final Swing

In an age of mass production and instant gratification, hickory club makers stand as a reminder of the enduring value of craftsmanship and tradition. Their dedication not only preserves a piece of golfing history but also offers a unique and rewarding way to experience the game. 

So, the next time you step onto the course, take a moment to appreciate the timeless artistry behind the clubs in your bag. Perhaps, a hickory club might just be the missing piece to connect you to the soul of golf.

And to complete your hickory experience, consider a handcrafted  golf bag from Steurer & Jacoby. Our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to using the finest materials perfectly complement the artistry of not only hickory clubs but also those of today's era of golf. Imagine yourself walking the course, your clubs cradled in a timeless leather bag or a leather and fabric bag so that you have a true embodiment of golfing heritage before everything was branded with a “logo”.