Maker: Unknown. Retailed by W.L. Thompson, West Drayton Golf Club (1895-1909).

Year: c.1900

Shaft: Most probably the original hickory shaft, with the old thick calf skin grip intact wrapped over underlisting. Shaft straight and firmly fitted to head with no visible signs of splits or cracks.

Length: 34.75" Heel to butt of  shaft

Condition: Very good for age. Very little wear to the head, with some discolouration but well defined name stamp.

Other details: Clear professional's stamp for W.L. Thompson, West Drayton Golf Club, Greater London. Thompson was the professional from 1895-1909 but the golf club wasn't to survive many more years after he left, finally closing in 1916.

"The club was founded in 1895 by a group of local gentlemen with Mr Ernest Humber as a leading proponent.

The River Colne formed the boundary on two sides and also crossed the course, which was originally laid out by Mr Fairlie. It was considerably altered and extended in 1905 by J H Taylor. Further changes were made by Willie Park in 1907.

The original course, with a bogey of 80, covered almost three miles in length, with holes varying from 125 yards to 521 yards, and was constructed on gravel subsoil. Hazards included the river, ditches and artificial bunkers. Course records were as follows: amateur, Mr H W Beveridge (72) and professional, Robert Thomson (66). The clubhouse was located in the old Mill House. 

It was announced in January 1916 that one of the best known clubs in London, West Drayton, was to close. A quarter of its members had gone to war and many others had resigned due to the economic situation. The committee found they were unable to pay the rent and other expenses amounting to £530, to say nothing of the cost of the upkeep of the club and course."

Extract taken from 'Golf's Missing Links'.

Note: More photographs available on request.