President Eisenhower’s personally-owned and -used personalized Spalding golf ball, embossed in black on one side, “General Ike.” It also bears manufacturer’s marks that read “Spalding,” “1,” and “Dot Plus.” Accompanied by a peach golf tee stamped in black down the side, “Dwight Eisenhower,” as well as matchbooks from Augusta National Golf Club and Eldorado Country Club matchbooks. Eisenhower was an avid golfer, and had joined the exclusive Augusta National in 1948.
Includes a detailed letter of provenance on White House letterhead from White House doorman Carl W. Ferguson. As doorman, Ferguson saw the president daily on his way to the Oval Office. In part: “President Eisenhower loved the game of golf and he often practiced his putting and chipping on the south lawn of the White House. Sometimes in passing, he would toss a used or even brand new golf ball to me. At other times, I would find his balls while walking around the south lawn where he had been practicing…The President seemed to enjoy being called ‘General’ as much as ‘President’ and some of his golf balls were printed with various names, such as this one with ‘General Ike,’ and some with just ‘Ike’ as well as ‘President.’ This golf ball was used by the President and is not a presentation ball. Therefore, it should be preserved.” President Eisenhower’s enthusiasm for golf was well-known throughout the nation, and he is credited with helping to further popularize the sport—over his eight years in office, Ike played an average of about 100 rounds per year. An impressive group ensemble.
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