Men on the Bag: The Caddies of Augusta National – A Rich History of Masters Caddies

Step into the greenside shadows of Augusta National with this richly told history of its caddies. From the early days when the caddie corps wore practical uniforms to the era when high-profile Tour caddies joined the Masters, the people who carried the bags shaped moments that golf fans remember for a lifetime.

Ward Clayton's narrative invites you to meet the colorful characters who kept pace with legends and presidents alike. The caddies with nicknames like Stovepipe, Burnt Biscuits, Skillet, Skinny, and Marble Eye become characters in their own right, each carrying a story folded into the folds of a well-worn bag. You glimpse the hush of the fairways, the crack of a practice swing, and the quiet camaraderie that underpins the spectacle of Masters week.

Key moments come to life not just as dates on a calendar but as lived experiences: the drama of a decisive putt, the tension as a tournament unfolds, the pride of a caddie marking a scorer’s card. The book charts a turning point in 1983 when Tour caddies were permitted for the first time, highlighting how a storied tradition evolved with the times.

What to discover inside

• vivid profiles of the people behind the podium, with personal anecdotes and era-defining moments
• insights into the relationship between players, captains, and their trusted bags

• a sense of Augusta National’s culture and the roles that shaped its history
• a chronological thread that connects early Masters triumphs to modern era milestones

This book offers a nostalgic yet balanced look at a bygone day and a living tradition. It celebrates memory without exaggeration, inviting readers to imagine being present at a landmark shot or a tense finish, all while respecting the craft and dedication of the caddies who carried the weight of the moment.

Whether you are a devoted golf historian or simply curious about the people who quietly powered the Masters, Men on the Bag provides a compelling lens into Augusta National’s enduring lore.