John Allan, a native or Prestwick, served his apprenticeship in the club and ball making business under Tom Morris shortly after Morris returned to St. Andrews from Prestwick in 1864. While Allan was working for Morris, Morris was asked to locate someone to make clubs and teach golf at a new club in England. Old Tom recommended Allan. 

Allan was the first professional at Royal North Devon, Westwood Ho!, and went on to make a name for himself for being courteous, charming, a gentleman, and a credit to the game of golf in his homeland. In fact, after he died he was considered to be the pioneer of all Scottish professionals who later worked at English courses.

This circa 1870 play club features a 41" hickory shaft (likely replaced back in the day--the neck whipping is old) and sheepskin grip.  It has a slender neck. There is a significant crack to the top of the 5 3/4" head that extends down into the shallow 1" face of the wood. The horn is also missing in a two small areas of the slip. The club does not show much use as the crack in the head no doubt retired the club from duty early on. Hence the original finish and name stamp are strong and clean--which is a bonus as Allan's clubs are rarely seen! The club remains a great display item—cracked and damaged heads were part of the game. 

See TCA2, V1 p79 for more info on John Allan.