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Written by: E. George
Published April 13, 2025 @ 2:55 PM ET
RICHMOND COUNTY, Ga. – A monumental tribute now stands in Augusta, recognizing the pivotal role played by generations of African American caddies who helped shape the Masters Tournament and the sport of golf as a whole.
The city unveiled a 25-foot-long golf tee sculpture this week at the Sand Hills Community Center, a significant location for many of the caddies who lived and worked in the area. The sculpture serves as a lasting homage to the men who provided not only physical support by carrying clubs but also strategic insight that influenced championship outcomes from the tournament’s inception in 1934 through the early 1980s.
The artistic installation, designed by Ed Durant and hand-painted by local artist Baruti Tucker, features the likenesses of several notable caddies. Tucker relied on archival images and assistance from local historians to accurately depict the individuals. Through months of meticulous, finger-painted work, he captured the personalities and presence of these men whose knowledge of the course became legendary.
The sculpture represents more than artistic achievement—it serves as a symbol of recognition long denied. For decades, Black caddies played an essential yet often overlooked role at Augusta National Golf Club, guiding professional players with precision and deep familiarity with the terrain. Their contributions were frequently overshadowed by the fame of the golfers they supported.
The unveiling ceremony brought together former caddies, family members, and community leaders to honor the legacy and resilience of those who worked the fairways. Among those in attendance was Otis “Buck” Moore, a veteran caddie who began in the 1960s. His presence underscored the personal and collective history represented in the sculpture as one of the few surviving members of the original Black Caddie Corps.
The Sand Hills neighborhood, once home to many of these caddies, now serves as a site of remembrance and pride. The sculpture is not only a visual landmark but also a testament to the historical significance of the individuals who helped build Augusta’s rich golfing tradition from the ground up.
Efforts to further preserve and educate the public about the contributions of Black caddies continue with initiatives such as the “Men on the Bag” experience and book signings hosted by the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. These programs aim to bring broader awareness to a legacy that has often gone untold.
By immortalizing these figures in sculpture and story, Augusta is taking meaningful steps toward acknowledging the full spectrum of voices that contributed to its golfing heritage.