Born in 1872, Willie Auchterlonie won the British Open in 1893.  Like many of the Open champs before him, Auchterlonie was a clubmaker.  In 1887 he started working as an apprentice clubmaker in the shop of Robert Forgan.  In 1893, he begn working for his brother David and his business partner Andrew Crosthwaite. The two had just opened their own clubmaking firm "Auchterlonie & Crosthwaite. in 1896 Crosthwaite left the firm and Willie took over as a partner. The firm was renamed D&W Auchterlonie.  Willie continued working as a clubmaker well into the 20th century. 

Willie Auchterlonie was one of six brothers. As they entered into the golf world, most of them developed into fine players and clubmakers and the 'Lonie's of St. Andrews grew in fame.  Brother Lawrence won the 1902 US Open. This was a great follow-on for the family after Willie had won the 1893 British Open.  In 1935, Willie was appointed honorary professional to the R&A Golf Club of St. Andrews.  Shortly after Willie's death at age 92, his son Laurie was appointed to the same position. 

The club offered here, stamped "Auchterlonie" on the crown, dates to the mid 1890s.  Of course, Willie or one of his brothers could have made this club, but most likely it was a product David and Willie's early business venture.

The 36" shaft is original as is the leather-wrapped grip. The head has darkened where the original varnish has been lost. Even so, the club still presents well.  Nothing wrong with an old club that looks its age, especially when its a solid, shapely, and tight example with a good name stamp and Open champ connection like this one.