Reviews and Recognition

The Gentry Links Trilogy has attracted recognition for its distinctive approach to the history of golf, using iconic paintings as historical evidence to uncover the people, families and relationships that shaped the development of the modern game.

The research combines art history, genealogy and documentary evidence to offer fresh perspectives on the evolution of golf in Scotland and its subsequent international development.

“An important advancement in the methodology of golf scholarship.”

Forewords to the Three Volumes

Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE
Former Secretary and Captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews

In his foreword to Volume I, Sir Michael reflected on how the research had transformed his understanding of Charles Lees’ The Golfers, revealing its importance as a record of the people and events shaping the development of golf.

John Nesbitt
Member of The Links Club, New York

Describing Volume II as a work of meticulous scholarship, John Nesbitt recognised the importance of the research into Sir David Baird, North Berwick Golf Club and the connections leading to the first Open Championship.

Charles Bruce (Lord Bruce)
Heir Apparent to the Earl of Elgin and Kincardine

In his foreword to Volume III, Lord Bruce commended the research into Scotland's golfing families and their contribution to the development and international expansion of the modern game.