The Book of the Links (Annotated): A Symposium on Golf

The Book of the Links features selected writings from prominent golf figures of the early 20th century, including Martin H.F. Sutton, Bernard Darwin, and H.S. Colt. Written in 1912, this collaborative guide provides rare insight into the methods and philosophies that were used to design, construct, and maintain the world’s most renowned golf courses. According to Sutton, “In producing this volume, it has been my aim to provide in the first instance a compendium of information, of a more complete character than has before been compressed into a single volume, on all the points upon which golf secretaries, green committees, and greenkeepers desire instruction.” Inside this classic of golf literature, the authors detail the essential features of an ideal golf course and provide insight on the proper methods of greenkeeping and design. Along with their first-hand narrative, all of the original photos and sketches have been included, ensuring that every element of the first edition has been carefully preserved. The Book of the Links includes: • The Construction of New Courses • The Formation of Greens & Teeing Grounds • Grasses and grass seeds • Golf Architecture • The Influence of Course upon Players’ Style • Caddies • Greenkeeping • The Vegetation of Golf Links • Finance