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Allan Robertson is widely regarded as the father of modern golf. He pioneered the use of iron golf clubs, helped shape the career of Tom Morris, and laid important foundations for what became The Open Championship. An innovator, master craftsman, and unbeaten match player, he remains one of golf’s forgotten legends.

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Allan Robertson was raised on a fairway, with a putting green as his playground. His home overlooked the 18th hole of the St Andrews Old Course, and his family had spent generations as senior caddies, feathery ball-makers, and competitors in golf’s most prized matches. It was a time when Scotland was at peace, St Andrews was changing, and golf was entering a new era.

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In the 19th century, craftsmen and caddies were often among the finest golfers, and Allan stood above them all. A true gentleman, he would sometimes spare his opponents’ pride by letting them lead before closing out the match on the final holes. He passed his skills and knowledge to his apprentice, Tom Morris, and together they were never beaten as partners.

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On the 17th hole of the St Andrews Old Course, Allan struck an approach shot that astonished his opponent, using one of the earliest recorded iron clubs for such a stroke. It was one of several innovations that followed. He was later granted permission to help reshape the Old Course, where the introduction of double greens helped draw more golfers to St Andrews.