Rare Ball Up For Grabs At Golf Auction

A rare ball and an original rule book are among the memorabilia up for grabs in an exclusive golf auction next week.

It is taking place in St Andrews during the Open - one feather-filled ball is being valued between £5000-8000. It was made by William Gourlay around 1830 and was originally part of a collection belonging to The Royal Perth Golfing Society. The Gourlay family are synonymous with early golf ball making. Although Douglas Gourlay is chronicled as arriving at Bruntsfield as a ballmaker circa 1780, there have been unchecked references to the family being connected with golfing in even earlier times and by their connection by marriage with the McEwan and Dunn families. 

In the 19th century the family achieved an unrivalled reputation as feathery ball makers. They also moved down to Musselburgh in the 1840s when McEwans the club makers set up there. John and William were in partnership as J. & W. Gourlay until the latter died in 1844. 

Paul Roberts Vice Chairman of Lyon & Turnbull said:

"This is a very exciting opportunity to take part in an exclusive auction of important golfing items.  Due to the nature of the location places at the auction must be reserved in advance, on a first come-first served basis. For those that can’t get to the auction there will be the opportunity to bid live online or by telephone, so no one will miss out."

Viewing will begin in Edinburgh, at Lyon & Turnbull’s main saleroom, on Sunday 12th (12 to 4pm) & Monday 13th July (10am to 5pm).  Followed by viewing, by appointment, at Pittormie on Wednesday 15th July from 11am to 6.30pm, with the auction itself beginning at 7.30pm.  Places for the evening auction will be limited due to the size of the venue and must be reserved in advance.