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The rhythmic thwack of a hickory club against a gutta-percha ball. The earthy scent of leather grips and freshly cut wood. For some golfers, the modern game, with its titanium drivers and high-tech balls, lacks a certain soul. 

This is where the world of hickory golf steps in, a realm where tradition reigns supreme and the echoes of golf's past resonate with every swing. But who keeps this legacy alive? Let's delve into the fascinating world

of the last remaining hickory club makers.

A Bygone Era Reborn

Hickory golf clubs dominated the game from the mid-1800s to the 1930s. Crafted from persimmon wood with shafts made of hickory, these clubs demanded a slower, more deliberate swing.

The rise of steel shafts and metal clubheads in the 20th century saw hickory fade into obscurity. However, in recent decades, there's been a resurgence of interest in hickory golf. Players are captivated by the challenge, the connection to history, and the unique aesthetic of these handcrafted clubs.

The Artisans of Hickory  

But where do these hickory clubs come from today? Enter the last bastions of a bygone era – the small workshops and dedicated individuals who have chosen to preserve the art of hickory club making.

These are not factory production lines. Each club is a labor of love, meticulously crafted by hand using time-tested techniques and a deep understanding of the wood's properties.

St Andrews Golf Company

Leading the charge is the St Andrews Golf Company, perhaps the only manufacturer in the world that retains the traditional tools and skills needed to create brand new, authentic hickory clubs. Their workshop in St Andrews, Scotland, – the birthplace of golf –  is a testament to the enduring legacy of the sport. The meticulous process involves over 200 steps, from selecting the perfect hickory shaft to shaping the clubhead and attaching the grip with painstaking care.

Modern-Day Revivalists

There is a passionate group of hickory club makers. Tad Moore Golf of Selma, Alabama is a leader in reproducing clubs from this era. E combines his love for the game with exceptional craftsmanship.

Another is Josef Lauber of JBL Hickory Golf of Switzerland who crafts the only forged irons for Hickory Golf Play.

There are others who have small workshops that take original hickory clubs and revitalize them to original condition for play. 

Additionally there are many support companies such as McIntyre Golf Ball Company who replicates the ball from the early 1900’s to give one the feel for the way a ball rolled and felt. Still there are others who offer vintage clothing, and handcrafted accessories to complete the experience of how golf was meant to be played.

Beyond Commerce: A Passion Project  

However, the world of hickory club making extends beyond commercial ventures.  Independent club makers like Max Hill, based in Austin, Texas,  dedicate themselves to meticulously restoring and customizing vintage hickory clubs.

These artisans possess a deep knowledge of club history and a keen eye for detail, ensuring that these historical pieces are not only playable but also works of art.

The Soul of Hickory

What makes hickory golf so special? It's more than just nostalgia. Hickory clubs demand a different kind of skill set.  The slower swing speed requires precise timing and a focus on feel. The reward? A connection to the game's roots, a deeper appreciation for shot-making, and the satisfaction of mastering a bygone art.

A Community of Enthusiasts

The last of the hickory club makers are not just artisans; they are also  part of a vibrant community.  Organizations like the Society of Hickory Golfers (SoHG) connect players, collectors, club makers, and tips on restoring clubs.  Through tournaments, forums, and events, the SoHG fosters a spirit of camaraderie and keeps the hickory flame burning brightly.

A Look to the Future:

The future of hickory club making may seem uncertain, yet there are reasons for optimism. The growing interest in the game ensures a continued demand for these handcrafted masterpieces. Additionally, the knowledge and skills are being passed down to a new generation of enthusiasts, ensuring the legacy lives on.

The Final Swing

In an age of mass production and instant gratification, hickory club makers stand as a reminder of the enduring value of craftsmanship and tradition. Their dedication not only preserves a piece of golfing history but also offers a unique and rewarding way to experience the game. 

So, the next time you step onto the course, take a moment to appreciate the timeless artistry behind the clubs in your bag. Perhaps, a hickory club might just be the missing piece to connect you to the soul of golf.

And to complete your hickory experience, consider a handcrafted  golf bag from Steurer & Jacoby. Our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to using the finest materials perfectly complement the artistry of not only hickory clubs but also those of today's era of golf. Imagine yourself walking the course, your clubs cradled in a timeless leather bag or a leather and fabric bag so that you have a true embodiment of golfing heritage before everything was branded with a “logo”.

Here at Steurer & Jacoby, we understand the allure of hickory golf. The challenge, the history, the pure connection to the game's roots – it's a captivating experience. And what better way to elevate your hickory game than by tackling a course designed by a legendary architect, crafted for the very clubs you wield?

Today, we're taking a trip across the United States to explore a few gems where you can experience hickory golf on courses designed by the masters: Donald Ross, Tom Bendelow, and George Davies.

Donald Ross

Known for his strategic brilliance and emphasis on risk-reward play, Ross's courses are a perfect fit for hickory golfers. Here are two to consider:

Sebonack Golf Club (Southampton, NY)

 This iconic links-style course, meticulously restored in 2009, offers stunning ocean views and a true test of shot-making. The narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers will have you feeling like a champion from the golden age of golf.

Sedgefield Country Club (Greensboro, NC)

Steeped in history, Sedgefield has hosted numerous PGA Tour events. The course's classic design, with its rolling hills and cleverly placed hazards, is a fantastic match for hickory clubs.

Tom Bendelow

Renowned for his creative bunkering and emphasis on natural beauty, Bendelow's courses offer a delightful challenge for hickory golfers.

Chicago Golf Club (Wheaton, IL)

A true Midwestern gem, Chicago Golf Club boasts a classic design that winds through a mature forest. The course's strategic bunkering and subtle elevation changes will demand thoughtful shot selection with your hickory clubs.

The Country Club of Charleston (Charleston, SC)

This historic course, meticulously restored in 2012, offers a unique blend of challenge and charm. The Bermudagrass greens and strategically placed hazards will test your hickory skills, while the beautiful setting provides a truly memorable experience.

George Davies

Davies was known for his emphasis on playability and integration with the natural landscape.  His courses offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with the history of the game.

Brookline Country Club (Brookline, MA)

Home to several historic U.S. Opens, Brookline offers a challenging yet fair test for hickory golfers. The iconic par-3 course, "The Himalayas," is a must-play, demanding precise shot-making with your hickory set.

Owl Creek Country Club (Anchorage, KY)

This unique course, designed by Davies in 1927 was the center of social activity for this small Kentucky town. It was designed on one of the towns estates for the 9-Hole design.

 For many years Owl Creek Country Club hosted what was regarded as “the number one golfing event for ladies in the state”, the Bartlett Tournament.

Dallas Athletic Club (Dallas, TX)

This classic course, designed by Davies in collaboration with Perry Maxwell, offers a unique blend of challenge and beauty. The course's strategic layout and variety of holes will keep you engaged throughout your round with hickory clubs.

These are just a few examples, of course.  Be sure to do your research, as there are many other fantastic courses designed by these and other legendary architects waiting to be explored with your hickory clubs.

Planning Your Hickory Golf Adventure

When planning your hickory adventure,  be sure to check with the course regarding their specific rules and regulations for hickory play.  Here at Steurer & Jacoby, we're passionate about preserving the rich history of hickory golf.  We encourage you to get out there, experience the game as it once was, and create some lasting memories on these historic courses.

Enjoy the Walk and Happy Swinging!

We always enjoy our time at the annual Winter Park Hickory Open.

The WP9 was in great shape as always and is a joy to play. We play the 9 hole track twice with our hickory clubs. With challenging greens and fun par threes, the course is always a fun challenge. 

Of course we saw many friendly faces, such as Tad Moore, Christian Williams- the Hickory Hacker, and of course our buddy Bill Geisler who runs the tournament every year. 

Our very own Bailey Wiegandt took home the 1st place gross trophy. 

Thanks to Bill for putting on a first class event. If you're looking for a fun tournament to try out, do not hesitate to sign up, as the waitlist grows every year!

We are so grateful for the camaraderie within the hickory golf community and do not take these friendships for granted. We are lucky to know and meet so many amazing friends through hickory golf! We look forward to the WP Hickory Open 2025! 

Check out this video, detailing President and Founder, Will Jacoby, 42 years in the golf industry and how Steurer & Jacoby came to be. 

For over four decades, Will Jacoby has been a prominent figure in the golf bag industry, revolutionizing the way golf bags are manufactured and setting new standards for quality and innovation. With his unwavering commitment to excellence, Jacoby has become a true pioneer in the field, earning the respect and admiration of both professionals and amateurs alike.

Welcome to this comprehensive guide on the 10 must-have items every golfer

should have in their golf bag. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, having the right equipment is crucial for success on the course. In this blog, we will explore the essential items that every golfer needs, while highlighting the premium golf bags offered by Steurer & Jacoby, a leading brand in the industry. 

Golf Clubs and Accessories

The Right Set of Golf Clubs: It is important to have a well-fitted set of clubs that suits your skill level and swing style. Whether you play with hickory clubs—such as the excellent Tad Moore Hickory Golf Clubs—or modern, you are most likely to play your best with clubs that feel just right. 

Golf Club Covers: Protecting your valuable clubs from scratches and dings is essential to optimizing your performance. Steurer Jacoby combines style with durability with our ever-popular club covers.  

Golf Balls and Ball Accessories

High-Quality Golf Balls: Not all golf balls are alike. There are, indeed, many different types of golf balls available, and how they are made can affect your game. For example, hickory players should try using McIntyre Golf Balls. McInytre makes replica golf balls from the early days of golf, letting hickory players feel closer to the game as it was originally played. 

In general, the big difference in golf balls concerns high compression vs. low compression. Higher compression balls (e.g., Titleist Pro V1, Taylormade TP5) are going to go farther for those with a high speed swing. Lower compression golf balls are better for those with a slower swing. Low compression golf balls will have a “softer” feel than a high compression golf ball. 

Ball Retrievers: A ball retriever in your bag can save you time on the course by ensuring you never lose a ball again. 

Golf Bag Essentials

Golf Bag: A well-designed golf bag offers functionality and organization. When you get a hand-crafted Steurer Jacoby bag, you get all this and an elegant, timeless style. 

Golf Towel: Keep your equipment clean and dry with a high-quality golf towel. We recommend using a microfiber towel to keep your clubs clean. 

On-Course Accessories

Golf Glove: A well-fitted and comfortable golf glove improves your grip and control. Additionally, it will reduce blisters from the grip. 

Golf Shoes: The right pair of golf shoes provides stability, comfort, and traction on the course.

Training Aids and Practice Tools

Golf Swing Analyzer: Improve your swing with the help of innovative swing analysis tools available in the market.

Putting Aid: Enhance your putting skills by utilizing training aids that promote accuracy and consistency.

Technology and Electronics

Golf GPS or Rangefinder: GPS devices and rangefinders can provide precise yardage and course information.

Launch Monitor: Launch monitors can assist in analyzing your swing, ball flight, and clubhead data.

Golf Accessories

Divot Repair Tool: Maintain the putting green by fixing divots with a reliable and practical divot repair tool. 

Golf Umbrella: Be prepared for any weather conditions with a sturdy golf umbrella. Steurer Jacoby offers a number of bags that have an umbrella holder: 

Airliner

Sunday

Caddy

Staff

Gran Tour

Personal Care Items

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a suitable sunscreen before heading out on the course.

Snacks and Water Bottle: Stay energized and hydrated during your round with nutritious snacks and the reusable water bottle from Firebird Group!

Our Caddy Golf Bag has a water bottle pocket that will fit a standard size water bottle.  

First Aid Kit and Emergency Tools

Golf-Specific First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries by keeping a compact first aid kit in your golf bag.

Multi-Tool: A versatile multi-tool can come in handy for various situations on the course.

Accessories

Golf Bag Tags: Add a personal touch to your golf bag with customized bag tags from Steurer Jacoby. 

Scorecard Holder: Keep your scorecard secure and accessible with a stylish scorecard holder. 

We hope this guide has provided valuable insights and recommendations to enhance your golfing experience. Remember, many of the products mentioned can be found on our website and offer exceptional quality and style, making them great additions to your golf bag. So, gear up, hit the greens, and enjoy the wonderful game of golf with the right equipment by your side! 

Origins of Hickory Golf

The origins of hickory golf can be traced back to Scotland, where the game of golf was born in the 15th century. Initially, golf clubs were crafted from various materials such as wood, iron, and even bone. However, it was during the late 19th century that hickory wood emerged as the preferred material for club shafts.

Popularity and Advantages of Hickory Golf

Hickory wood, obtained from the hickory tree, possessed excellent strength, flexibility, and durability, making it an ideal material for golf club shafts. The wood was lightweight, yet it had the necessary stiffness to propel the ball with accuracy and distance. Golfers began to favor hickory clubs due to their superior performance compared to other materials.

The popularity of hickory golf soared in the late 1800s and early 1900s, coinciding with the expansion of the sport in both Europe and the United States. During this time, golf became a favorite pastime among the upper classes, and hickory golf clubs became a status symbol. Prominent players, including Harry Vardon and Bobby Jones, achieved great success using hickory clubs, further popularizing the style.

Artistry and Characteristics of Hickory Golf

One of the notable features of hickory golf was the craftsmanship involved in creating the clubs. Skilled artisans meticulously shaped and crafted the wooden shafts, often adding personalized touches and intricate designs. The clubs were often hand-forged and custom-made to suit individual players' preferences, resulting in a unique and personalized playing experience.

Hickory golf clubs were accompanied by distinctive characteristics in terms of design and playability. The clubheads were smaller and less forgiving compared to modern metal clubs, requiring precise ball striking and skillful shot shaping. Golfers needed to have a high level of control and finesse to navigate the course successfully. The use of hickory clubs demanded a more measured and strategic approach to the game.

Transition to Steel Shafts

As the 20th century progressed, advancements in technology led to the introduction of steel shafts in the 1920s. Steel offered increased strength and consistency, and it gradually replaced hickory as the preferred material for golf club shafts. The transition to steel marked a significant turning point in the history of hickory golf, as it paved the way for further innovations in golf equipment.

The Resurgence of Hickory Golf

Despite the decline in popularity of hickory golf, it has experienced a resurgence in recent years. Enthusiasts of the game have formed societies and organizations dedicated to preserving the traditions and skills associated with hickory golf. Tournaments and events are held worldwide, where players use authentic hickory clubs and dress in period attire, recreating the ambiance of the early days of the sport.

Preserving Tradition and Appreciating Heritage

Hickory golf serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and evolution of the game. It embodies the spirit of tradition, craftsmanship, and skill that were instrumental in shaping the modern game of golf. By embracing hickory golf, players and enthusiasts pay homage to the pioneers of the sport and gain a deeper appreciation for its origins.

Hickory Golf Lives On

In conclusion, the history of hickory golf traces the development and eventual decline of the game played with wooden-shaft clubs. From its origins in Scotland to its widespread popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, hickory golf showcased the craftsmanship and skill required to excel in the sport. While it may have been overshadowed by the introduction of steel shafts, hickory golf continues to hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts who strive to keep the traditions and spirit of the early game alive.

We recently returned home from an exciting 3 days in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, playing in the annual Kohler Hickory Challenge. On Thursday the team played at the 2021 Ryder Cup host site, Whistling Straits. We lucked out with beautiful weather, a warm 60 degrees with a bit of wind from Lake Michigan. A perfect day for golf on the Straits. Day two, we played at the Meadows Course at Blackwolf Run, a site where our Pencil Bags can be rented out with a set of Hickory Clubs to try. Later that evening we experienced a first class golf experience at Kohler's Par 3 and Putting Course called The Baths. We participated in the putting challenge and then played the 10 holes on the par 3 course. On the final day, we played the Irish course at Whistling Straits, another top class golf course that is challenging but hickory friendly. Our own Bailey Wiegandt, took the title home in the Ladies division. 

We had such an enjoyable hickory adventure in Wisconsin, seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Thanks to Ernie Ernst for putting on one of the best events in hickory golf. We will definitely be back!

SOHG write up: https://www.hickorygolfers.com/wisconsins-kohler-challenge-great-mix-of-challenging-golf-good-times/ 

Welcome to Steurer & Jacoby!

Both my team and I are grateful for your orders and support for our products. We believe that there are no products offered today that meet the uniqueness of our American designed quality and American hand-crafted Steurer & Jacoby brand. 

I want to personally assure you that we are still hand-crafting our products in a very adjusted schedule in our shop. This is because we are following the mandates for safety established by both the Federal and State governments during the Coronavirus crisis. These allow only 2 people working in our shop at a time which obviously has created a limitation on our daily and weekly capabilities. 

Over the next dew days, we will be establishing a new schedule regarding deliveries of your orders. We are thankful for your patience and understanding since this is an ever-changing situation. Please be assured that we will be working on the FIFO basis. That is "First In- First Out." 

Also, if you have been considering a purchase, please make it as we do need orders and business to keep our team busy during these times. Thank you!

Should you have any questions you may contact us either by email (info@firebirdgroupinc.com) or telephone (502.267.6878). 

Please be safe and healthy! 

Will Jacoby

Happy Valentine’s Day and a Mid-Winter to all!

As we have now approached what I will call “mid-winter” here in Louisville, I want to share both some thoughts with you about some new and exciting products that may interest both our faithful clients and those who are considering our products! Also, a friendly reminder DO NOT FORGET VALENTINES DAY!

Greetings to All!

As we approach the first of November, many these four-(4) subjects come to mind every year:

• Fall Golf Tournaments. My favorite is the Mid Pines Hickory Tournament hosted by Mr. Graham Gilmore. He is a great host as is the whole staff at Mid Pines to all the players and guests. This is a top 5 for me every year.
• The Illinois State Cross Country Meet in Peoria. My Alma Mater, York High of Elmhurst has been the dominate team to beat over the past 50 years (they have won it 28 times) and Coach Charlie Kern who replaced my Coach Joe Newton (he coached all 28 wins!) is just as dynamic and skillful with the strategy to continue the “York Long Green Line tradition” as Coach Newton did. Go Dukes and win it for Coach Newton’s memory!
• What will my 8 grandkids dress up as and how can I scare at least one of them!
• Thanksgiving. This is better than Christmas to me. First you have family and friends together to enjoy a day of each other’s friendship and love; and to be thankful for all our blessings. Second, you get to have a feast like no other of what was Ben Franklins choice for our national bird (thank heaven it wasn’t chosen as I wonder what we would be eating). As a kid my father’s favorite vegetable was rutabaga, so it appeared every Thanksgiving as yes, everyone had to have a serving of it. Personally, I am glad that was only once a year. Third, we know that we better get ready for Christmas as it is not too far out.

I am sure that you have your top November ”4” as well and I am sure that we share at least one-(1), the most important one which is listed last just because of when it falls in the month of November.

From a business view, I hope that you will take a moment and see if any of our hand-crafted” items will help fill your Christmas gift list. If so, please order early as we have some nice incentives for you. We are always grateful for your orders.

From a personal view, I want you to know how THANKFUL we are for your business and friendships.

Finally, we at Firebird Group crafters of the Steurer & Jacoby brand of products want to wish you and your family a Blessed Thanksgiving.

-Will Jacoby

Hello to All!

In my last blog I tried to explain about the philosophy of Firebird Group Inc/Steurer & Jacoby as a company and the team that creates our company.

The Mission Statement of QUALITY and TRADITION to us is more than words. This is the heart and soul of WHO WE ARE and WHAT OUR PRODUCTS ARE. Let me address this with some examples of our golf bag styles. 

• TRADITION
• We offer three- (3) distinct styles of Golf Bags. Our "original" design comes from the look of the bags from the early 1900's. Bags of that era were not larger than 7", in fact most of them were 6". We chose to go with 7" because it would appeal to more golfers today, especially those who like to "Enjoy the Walk" as my good friend Joe Lauber of Switzerland always says. Yes, folks tell me that it is tight for 14 clubs, but the fact is the average golfer does not need 14 clubs, so leave a couple at home! I can assure you from personal use you can get 14 into the bag, but yes, it is snug as I like to say like the "Happy Family Meal" from your favorite Chinese restaurant!
• Back to the design, all early bags had a modest front ball pocket and a side pocket for a wind shirt, towel or snack since everyone "Enjoyed the Walk!" Bags of that era were either "collapsible" which meant they had no vertical support, or they had vertical support via "wire rods" or as we refer to them as "metal stays" to offer support. The original reason for having stays is to keep the bag from falling "down" like an old sock and be able to have the bag with clubs to stand up. 
• But if you really think about the practicality of adding a frame, it is also for the protection of your clubs, especially the shafts, and gives you the ability  to use either a hand "trolley" as our European friends rider to carts or a riding cart. This also gives you the ability to use one of our upright wooden stands when walking so you don't have to lay your bag and clubs on the ground and finally, allow upright storage of your equipment. 
• In the styling, I kept the "tradition" of the pocket "flap." These were used as "zippers" which were not widely available in those days. Also, what golf bags that existed were made mainly by saddle makers who used flaps for the pockets on saddle bags, so buckles were the closure of practicality and ease of entry. The flaps offered security of the contents and weather protection. 
• We had many requests for a "6" Collapsible Bag, one without supports shortly after the introduction of our "ORIGINAL" Model 100. We introduced the MODEL 50 which has a basic wooden dowel for support, again a "throwback" style, this to the late 1890's. This model is designed for up to 8/9 clubs because of the balance point ability, since the heads of the clubs will outweigh the contents of the modest ball pocket.