[Not formally credited - Presumed compiled and edited by Rev. Joseph Robertson of Edinburgh]

The Traveller's Guide Through Scotland, and its Islands: illustrated by maps, views of remarkable buildings, &c. [1818] [Early References to Golf]

Edinburgh: Printed by J. Pillans & Son, for John Thomson and Company ..., and R. Baldwin, London, 1818. Seventh Edition.

Contemporary half-calf and marbled boards ruled gilt spine with morocco spine labels; all edges marbled. Complete in 2 volumes. 7.5 inches tall; 300; 295 pages.

Illustrated in Volume 1 with large folding frontispiece map of Scotland, as well as 11 maps [some folding] in-text and 2 copper-plate illustrations; in Volume II, large folding frontispiece map of Loch Catherine and Loch Lomond as well as 9 other maps [some folding]. Seventh Edition.

Containing references to golf: Vol 1 pages 34, 83, 99, 108, and 115 and Vol. II page 55. Despite being a travel guide, the 1818 edition contains several early references to the game of golf within its regional descriptions. These brief mentions are among the earliest guidebook references to golf. While the passages are succinct, they confirm that by 1818 golf was considered characteristic enough of certain Scottish towns to be included in a traveller’s handbook​.

For example, the entry on St. Andrews points out its extensive ‘links’ where golf was played, and the entry on Musselburgh notes its famous golfing ground. Such inclusions are of interest to sports historians, and were highlighted in a recent auction of golf literature, which cited all the golf-related pages in the 1818 guide​.

The bindings are tight and square. Text is clean; light, even age-toning. Moderate shelf handling wear with Light scuffing and rubbing to both volumes; both frontispiece maps show some foxing and repairs; some foxing to text leaves and plates. A very handsome set.

Some maps in the book credit Thomas Clerk and others (Kirkwood, N.R. Hewitt) as engravers. [Yale]

An early and important work of travel literature, offering a comprehensive guide for those exploring Scotland's diverse regions and islands. This book was written during a period of increasing interest in tourism and the romanticization of the Scottish landscape, spurred by both the growing popularity of scenic exploration and the works of writers like Sir Walter Scott.

The guide provides detailed descriptions of Scottish towns, villages, landscapes, and landmarks, while also offering practical information such as routes, accommodations, and cultural points of interest. It reflects early 19th-century Scotland, providing readers with insights into the social and geographical context of the time.

The work is notable for its clarity and thoroughness, making it an essential resource for travelers of the period. The book serves not only as a guide but also as a snapshot of the Scottish countryside and its evolving infrastructure, capturing a sense of the country’s charm and its slowly growing connection to the broader world. Rich with historical references, the guide highlights not only popular sites but also lesser-known areas, giving readers a broader understanding of Scotland’s character.

Subjects: Scottish Geography, Architecture, Cartography; Travel Guide, Illustrated Book, Scottish History, Golf.

Item #20308

Price: $350.00