Old Tom Morris

From Issue Four of Hidden Scotland Magazine

Old Tom Morris

The life of golf’s Old Tom Morris.

Words by Ed Hodge · Photographs by Kevin Kirk · Lino print by Bryan Angus

Printed in Issue Four of Hidden Scotland Magazine, Spring and Summer 2022.

Old Tom Morris, photograph by Kevin Kirk

‘Old Tom’. Two simple words, perhaps conjuring different meanings. To some, the words spark thoughts of the gin recipe popular in 18th century England which has enjoyed a modern resurgence. To others, it was the name of the killer orca whale in Australia known to whalers in the port of Eden, New South Wales from around 1895 to 1930. In sporting terms however, they are two words simply synonymous with Scottish golf, indeed global golf.

Old Tom Morris. ‘The Grand Old Man of Golf’, a founding father, a legend of the game. While leaving aside the orca tale, there is some merit in the gin connection. “This delicious gin is rich, rounded and versatile in flavour with a beautiful, delicate finish.” It could be said Old Tom the golfer and course designer fitted such a fine description.

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