By Drea Braxmeier
Manager of Media Relations

John H. Taylor

John Henry Taylor was one of the most talented and respected golfers in his day. Born in North Devon, England, in 1871, Taylor initially pursued a career in the military but was turned down due to poor eyesight and flat feet. He saw the need for a career change and turned to his passion in golf.

In 1894, Taylor became the first Englishman to win the British Open. From there, he won the event four more times, with his second win coming just a year later in 1895.

He wasn’t known specifically for his wins, but rather by his dominance in those wins. In 1894, he was sure to have the directional posts removed from the blind holes because he didn’t want his balls to go careening off them into the bunkers. The following year, he captured the title by four strokes. Another important victory came in 1900 at St. Andrews. He won by eight strokes and the third place finisher came in 13 strokes behind.

In 1913, Taylor again won the British Open, this time in some of the most treacherous conditions. His eight-shot victory showed that he was the force to be reckoned with during that period. While he acted calm on the golf course, Taylor suffered a great internal battle while playing. It was once said “Taylor had great control and might appear outwardly cool, but the flames leaped from within.”