Jack Simpson

Jack Simpson, the 1884 Open winner, was one of six golfing brothers. The family was originally from Earlsferry, in Fife, but moved north of the River Tay to Carnoustie, where their fame endures.

Jack was the only one of the brothers to win The Open, claiming an impressive victory at Prestwick. The course had just been extended to 18 holes and his scores of 78 and 82 on a day of strong wind were the lowest in each round.

He won by four strokes from defending Champion Willie Fernie and Douglas Rolland. Otherwise, Jack never finished better than 12th. Younger brother Archie was a much more stylish player and the runner-up in both 1885 and 1890.

He later became a golf course architect in America. Robert was fourth in 1885 but was better known as a clubmaker and in 1883 he set up Simpson’s Golf Shop overlooking the 18th at Carnoustie which, with its colourful domed roof, remains a feature of golf in the town to this day.

It is thought to be the second oldest golf shop in the world. Robert helped Old Tom Morris redesign the Championship course at Carnoustie, and Robert and Archie laid out the Royal Aberdeen course at Balgownie, which was later revised by James Braid. Another brother, David, won the Scottish Foursomes title but remained an amateur.