“Come to Britain for Golf” Vintage Travel Poster, Circa 1952

This is a 1952 vintage golf travel poster, entitled Come to Britain for Golf by Rowland Hilder. The lithographic poster was published by the Travel Association of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to promote Britain as a holiday destination. The poster was printed in Great Britain by W. S. Cowell Ltd. London & Ipswich and the emblem of the “Travel Association of the U.K, of Gt. Britain & N. Ireland” is printed in the bottom left hand corner. In the scene, four men play a relaxing game of golf in the golden light of Autumn. As the eye is drawn to the background, Hilder’s poster showcases Britain’s rolling hills and luxurious country clubs.

The United Kingdom has a long history of Golf. The game was first invented in Scotland during the 15th century. Later in 1744, the first gentleman’s golf club was formed and rules began to formalize. During the 19th century, wherever the rule of Great Britain went, golf soon followed. The sport grew and certain destinations became known for their own style of courses. As seen in the poster, Britain’s unique bunkers and rough links courses varied greatly from others, like the carefully manicured courses of the United States.

The artist, Rowland Frederick Hilder (1905-1993), was an English book illustrator, artist, and former Marine. He is most known for his black and white illustrations of Treasure Island for which he won The Times Illustrator’s Award in 1929. Hilder then began a long career with the travel guide company Then and Now designing posters. He put his skill in painting landscapes to good use while working for the travel company and produced many fine depictions. However, the poster presented here was created specifically for the Travel Association of Great Britain.

CONDITION:

Overall very good condition. The poster has some minor dents along the lower right corner of the scene and in the bottom margin, but otherwise the colors are vibrant, there are no tears, losses, or major creases. The lithograph is housed in a complimentary archival frame with acid-free matting and UV-protective glass.

Poster Dimensions: 21″ H x 17.75″ W. Framed Dimensions: 33″ H x 23.5″ W x 1.5″D