Bobby Jones and Augusta National

Bobby Jones started looking for a property to design and build his own course. He envisioned a private course where he could play a round of golf with his friends without being interrupted by fans or reporters. Clifford Roberts, a friend of Jones' and an investment dealer in New York City, heard about his quest and became aware of a property for sale near Augusta, Georgia. Jones visited Fruitlands, an arboretum and indigo plantation, in the spring of 1930. He bought it for $70,000 in 1931.

Picture of a letter located in the Brandenburg Museum, written by Jones to

Mr. Crawford Johnson. In 1902, Mr. Johnson purchased one of the earliest

franchises to distribute Coca-Cola in Birmingham, Alabama.

While Jones practically could choose any architect he wanted to, he quickly decided on Alister MacKenzie to design Augusta National. At that time, MacKenzie had already designed around 40 golf courses all over the world.

By today's standards, the course was built with remarkable speed. MacKenzie arrived in March 1932 for a two-month visit. During this time, he shaped the greens. As the land cleared and holes shaped, Jones would hit golf balls into the greens while MacKenzie would observe. Adjustments were made where deemed necessary. The two men, according to writer Q.B. Keeler in 1932, got along exceptionally.

Augusta National opened in 1933. With the U.S. Open scheduled in June - July, months during which the Georgia heat was unbearable, Jones quickly realized that championship would never be held at Augusta. With the U.S Open out of the question, Clifford Roberts again came up with a good idea. He saw an opportunity to develop an invitation only tournament hosted by Jones. He suggested this tournament to be called "The Masters."