Bobby Jones Signed to OB Keeler Grand Slam Trophies & Walker Trophy Photo with Keeler
Inseparable were the talented tandem of Bobby Jones and OB Keeler, who long abided by the 'help me help you' mantra - Est. 1916. “The greatest golf writer that has ever lived” was the high praise that Bobby Jones gave his friend and confidant, Atlanta Journal's own, Oscar Bane Keeler - normally the one the receiving end of the praise. It was only natural that Keeler was by his side in this original photo from 1930 when Bobby Jones elevated the game of golf into the international forefront of sport by way of his remarkable individual achievements. Keeler had reported on each of Jones' 13 major championships up until that point. Shortly after this Grand Slam Trophy photograph was captured, with each of the four trophies: US Open, Open Championship, US Amateur and (British) Amateur, Bobby Jones signed this shot to the also pictured Keeler and gave it to him - the single tangible memory for OB (Oscar) standing with Bobby and the Trophies upon completion of the "Impregnable Quadrilateral!" That point cannot be stressed enough, as the Bobby Jones signed original photo was held tightly in Keeler's estate until over thirty years later in 1966 when it was presented to Richard D. Gordin by Mrs. OB Keeler. Richard D. Gordin. (Director Emeritus of Athletics, and Golf Coach Emeritus at Ohio Wesleyan University) wrote his doctorial thesis on Bobby Jones' life and his contributions to the game of golf while at Ohio State. Gordin became close with Both Jones and Mrs. OB Keeler during his research, visiting each for numerous interviews. Mrs. Eleanor Keeler became fond of the then young man Gordin and his enthusiasm and gave this to him. A signed letter of provenance from Richard D Gordin is provided with this lot. Size of photo is 8" x 10"
"For Old Oscar with my best as always, Bob," Jones wrote just above his head in dark steel tip pen ink. Infrequent at best is it to find a quality example of a Bobby Jones signed photo, however this 'Grand Slam' trophy gem is the only known example from Bobby to close friend and sidekick in many ways, OB Keeler! PSA/DNA has reviewed this signature AND inscription (to Keeler) and their FULL letter of authenticity #AI06349 stating they are BOTH in Bobby Jones' hand comes with this lot.
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