Designated Bastard* Part 2: Vision/Execution

Clifford Roberts and Bobby Jones met in the early 1930’s at the Bon-Air Vanderbilt in Augusta, Georgia, introduced by Walton Marshall, president of the Vanderbilt hotel chain.  Roberts was smitten/fascinated/mesmerized by Jones’s stature, success and charm.  Jones shared his vision with Roberts: “develop a golf course and a secluded retreat of some stature, that men of some means might find the club worthwhile as an extra luxury when they visit and play with kindred spirits from other parts of the nation”.  Bobby wanted/needed a private, unique property where he could influence the design and dispense a sizable dose of southern charm.

Roberts, a Wall Street investment banker from humble beginnings, saw an opportunity to assist THE Bobby Jones with the fulfillment of his dreams by connecting those of means to the project and, in time, connecting his professional services to the membership.  The genius of Clifford Roberts, the hustler!

Two uniquely gifted individuals, from different planets and different perspectives, chasing a common dream; both on a quest to build a remarkable golf course in the throes of the Great Depression.

Facts:

• Roberts suggested Augusta, Georgia. Familiar geography for the co-founder with rail service, ample hotels and existing golf courses.
• The co-founders settled on the Berckman’s Nursery (Fruitlands) property, an ornamental tree nursery (365.64 acres for $70,000).
• Jones secured Alister Mackenzie (see previous Bad Golf Guy post: “The Thirteen Principles of Golf Course Design”).   Mackenzie was introduced to Jones by Marion Hollins (a future Bad Golf Guy post: Take No Offense, This is Some Dame).
• Construction began in early 1932 and was completed on May 27, 1932. A total of 124 days from start to finish.  77 actual working days!
• Design/build was budgeted for $100,000. Projects final cost was $85,000.
• Augusta National’s fairways are measured at 80 acres as compared to the more typical 30-35 acres.

Part Three Next Wednesday: Membership/Management

 

*”Designated Bastard” is a description of Clifford Roberts by an unnamed Augusta National Golf Club member in Curt Sampson’s book, The Masters…Golf, Money and Power in Augusta, Georgia.

Many of the facts stated in this article are from Curt Sampson’s book, The Masters…Golf, Money and Power in Augusta, Georgia.

Thank you for following Bad Golf Guy.

The back nine can only get better!