The British Golf Museum in St Andrews has officially become the latest of Scotland’s finest national treasures.
Museums Galleries Scotland announced on Thursday that the museum collection which illustrates the story of the nation’s golfing history has become the 38th recognised collection of national significance.
It joins the ranks of internationally renowned collections such as the Robert Burns Collection, cared for by the National Burns Collection Partnership, and the Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh.
Located beside The Royal and Ancient Clubhouse in St Andrews, the British Golf Museum documents the history of golf from medieval times to the present day. Inside is a glittering array of information on the men’s and women’s games, both British and international, and professional and amateur.
Exhibits include historic equipment, memorabilia and artwork, and archive documentation relating to the history of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club and the rules of the game.
Collection highlights include the oldest known set of golf clubs in the world and the first Open Championship gold medal. Visitors can also watch the oldest-known footage of a golf match, dating from 1894.
Museums Galleries Scotland’s endorsement was accompanied by a plaque which was presented by sports minister Shona Robison.
”Golf is one of our greatest cultural and sporting assets with a long history firmly rooted in Scotland,” she said. ”Achieving recognised status demonstrates the quality and significance of the British Golf Museum collection, which tells a fantastic story of our love for the great game.
”It is fitting that the British Golf Museum has become the 38th collection of national significance. These collections are of great value to the people of Scotland and to the millions of visitors we welcome from around the world every year.”
Museum director Angela Howe added: ”We are delighted … It is testament to the important role that golf has played in Scottish society and culture for centuries past.”