Few figures in golf are as respected as Old Tom Morris, the man who helped shape the game as we know it today. Born in St Andrews in 1821, Morris devoted his entire life to golf as a player, clubmaker, greenkeeper, and course designer. His story is one of passion, innovation, and enduring legacy, all of which are immortalised in the statue that stands proudly near the 18th green of the Old Course in St Andrews.
Old Tom Morris began his career as an apprentice to Allan Robertson, often described as the world's first professional golfer. Morris developed his craft on and off the course, mastering clubmaking and course maintenance long before the modern era of golf began.
He played in the very first Open Championship at Prestwick Golf Club in 1860, finishing runner-up to Willie Park Sr, before going on to win four of the first eight Opens between 1861 and 1867. Competing until the age of 75, he still holds the record as the oldest Open Champion, winning at 46 years and 99 days.
Returning home to St Andrews in 1864 after a spell in Prestwick, he became the Keeper of the Green at the Old Course. A position he held for some 40 years. During this time, he established a successful clubmaking business and became recognised as the world's first golf course architect. Many of Scotland's great courses were originally laid out by Old Tom, including Prestwick, Muirfield, Carnoustie, and Royal Dornoch.
Visitors to St Andrews can see the bronze statue of Old Tom Morris (pictured). Located across the road from the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse overlooking the 18th green of the Old Course. The statue captures his calm, wise expression, golf club in hand, symbolising the man's mastery of the game and lifelong dedication to its growth.
For golfers from around the world, Old Tom's statue is a must-see and a fitting tribute to his impact on golf and the town of St Andrews.
Old Tom Morris lived, worked, and ultimately passed away in St Andrews in 1908. His grave lies in St Andrews Cathedral graveyard, beside his son Young Tom Morris, who tragically died young. Attracting visitors from across the world, paying homage to two of the most influential figures in golf's history.
Young Tom Morris transformed the way golf was played and became known as the sport’s first young prodigy. Sadly, he died on Christmas Day in 1875, his life cut tragically short. At only 24 years old, following the loss of his wife and newborn child three months earlier. His achievements, though brief, cemented the Morris family's place in golfing history. Today, visitors to St Andrews can pay tribute to both father and son.
Visitors can easily spot the statue of Old Tom Morris on Golf Place. Just across from the Old Course and the R&A Clubhouse, looking back over the links. Visitors can walk down to see the most famous bridge in golf, the Swilcan Bridge, before visiting the Jigger Inn. The R&A World Golf Museum is just next to his statue. The ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, where Old Tom rests, are around a ten-minute walk from his statue. St Andrews offers plenty of things to do for those visiting the Home of Golf.
Whether you're a lifelong golfer or simply exploring Scotland's heritage, Old Tom's presence can be felt throughout St Andrews, the Home of Golf.
Old Tom Morris (1821–1908) was a professional golfer, clubmaker, greenkeeper, and course designer from St Andrews. He won four Open Championships and played a vital role in shaping modern golf.
The statue stands beside the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse overlooking the 18th green of the Old Course in St Andrews.
He is buried in the St Andrews Cathedral graveyard, next to his son, Young Tom Morris.
