Although golf was being played in Scotland as early as the 14th century, and possibly even earlier, there were also many variations being played throughout Europe even before this time, known as “kolf” in Holland and “goff” in England. But the defining feature of “gowf” as it was originally spelled, that is, the hole is the uniquely Scottish addition, and what makes it the game it is today.

Golf has its origins on the east coast of Scotland, but quickly spread throughout the country becoming more than just a national game. It was so much a passion for many players, that the game was banned by Royal decree in the 1400s as it was distracting the army from its archery practice. Like his predecessors, King James IV also tried to ban golf instead became a devotee and Scottish monarchs have been avid players ever since.

The spread of golf through all levels of Scottish society continued until the Gentlemen Golfers of Leith, later renamed the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, was instituted in 1744, and the world famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews was established in 1754.

In the late 1800’s, a fore runner to the modern golf ball, the “gutta percha ball” was invented and the popularity of gold began to spread internationally. During this time, club-making and ball-making technology developed rapidly and the golf clubs produced by some of the most skilled and famous craftsmen were so desirable that forgeries began to appear. This was also the time when international golf tournaments first began as top players began to regularly come together for golf 'meetings' when match-play rounds were organized.
Golf is now played and enjoyed around the world and has become a multi-million dollar industry.