The fabulous photograph above of the Lundin Links Hotel on the day of its official opening, was taken by Edinburgh photographer and portrait artist William Drummond Young. It features the guests that attended this fashionable gathering - some of which are listed below. The 29 June 1900 edition of 'Golf Illustrated' covered the opening and featured the above image. The hotel was very much linked to the Lundin Golf Club - built on the back of the success of the club, designed by architect Peter Henderson who was then Captain of the Golf Club and frequented by many golfers. In fact, it seemed to be sometimes referred to as the 'Golf Hotel' in its early days.
After a less-than-smooth period of construction (more on that here) the "distinctively modern" hotel replaced the old inn and had its grand opening on 24 May 1900 (Queen Victoria's 81st Birthday). 'Golf Illustrated' described how...
"Entrance is effected through a spacious hall with tiled floor, and a handsome, well-lighted staircase leads to the different flats. Off the landing on the main staircase is a billiard room with two tables. There are twenty bedrooms on the various floors. The whole building has been fitted up with electric light, the power being obtained from an oil engine of the latest type. The sanitary arrangements are of the most modern description."
The bunting and huge flags add a real sense of occasion and the guests all look very well turned out. There must have been many other photographs captured of this day. If you know of any, please do get in touch!
After a less-than-smooth period of construction (more on that here) the "distinctively modern" hotel replaced the old inn and had its grand opening on 24 May 1900 (Queen Victoria's 81st Birthday). 'Golf Illustrated' described how...
"Entrance is effected through a spacious hall with tiled floor, and a handsome, well-lighted staircase leads to the different flats. Off the landing on the main staircase is a billiard room with two tables. There are twenty bedrooms on the various floors. The whole building has been fitted up with electric light, the power being obtained from an oil engine of the latest type. The sanitary arrangements are of the most modern description."
The bunting and huge flags add a real sense of occasion and the guests all look very well turned out. There must have been many other photographs captured of this day. If you know of any, please do get in touch!
The St Andrews Citizen similarly enthuses about the opening, speaking of "the palatial building", with "soft, thick carpets" and "luxurious appointments". Below are listed the tradesmen responsible for the building. The new hotel must have been successful as within a few years, it was enhanced by the addition of a verandah at the front entrance.
Footnote: Photographer Drummond Young issued a commemorative group picture after the event (clipping from 23 June St Andrews Citizen below) has anyone ever seen this?
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