Methods of Early Golf Architecture

Methods of Early Golf Architecture features selected writings from 19th century architects Alister MacKenzie, H.S. Colt, and A.W. Tillinghast. With precision and detail, these prominent architects discuss each element of golf course design, and no detail is left untouched.


Methods of Early Golf Architecture Includes:

- Characteristics of a Golf Architect

- Psychology of Design

- Deciding Where to Build

- The Design Process

- Utilizing Natural Features

- Teeing Grounds

- Through the Green

- Hazards

- Greens and Greenkeeping

- Ideal Holes

- The Construction Process

- Overseeing Construction


Characteristics of a Golf Architect 

“He should, above all, have a sense of proportion and be able to come to a prompt decision as to what is the greatest good to the greatest number.” 

– Alister MacKenzie


Psychology of Design 

“The designer of a course should start off on his work in a sympathetic frame of mind for the weak, and at the same time be as severe as he likes with the first-class player.” 

– H.S. Colt


The Design Process 

“The course should be so interesting that even the plus man is constantly stimulated to improve his game in attempting shots he has hitherto been unable to play.” 

– Alister MacKenzie


Greens and Greenkeeping 

“The plagues of Egypt seem but slight evils in comparison with the trials sometimes experienced by the keen and anxious greenkeeper.”

– H.S. Colt