Fine and rare R Forgan St Andrews golden fruitwood longnose curved face short spoon c1863 - once the property of Freddie Tait Amateur Champion - this fine and early longnose is mounted with white metal engraved plaque to the face inscribed "Wooden Spoon and 2 Balls, the property of, Freddie Tait, presented by Archibald McKinlay, Eskside, Musselburgh" - very good clear makers head stamp, c/w underlisting and retaining 60% hide grip. Note Frederick Guthrie Tait (1870-1900) was a Scottish soldier and amateur golfer who won the Amateur Golf Championship twice in 1896 and 1898 and finished 3rd in The Open Championship again in 1896 and 1897. He was also a member of The R&A who in his short career won 28 golfing tournaments including those at other local clubs and as well as further afield. Unfortunately his life was cut short when he was killed in action during the 2nd Boer War.