Thank you to the Tin Whistles (and to Howard Ward’s reporting) in giving Dixie Chapman a chance to tell stories about his famous father (April 22).

Dick Chapman was truly one of “Pinehurst’s own.” I was honored to prepare a display at the Tufts Archives on him. In my preparation, I was invited into Dixie and Pidgie’s home. They generously gave me pictures, medals and stories of oral history. Some facts about Dick Chapman that were not mentioned in the article, or that need repeating, include:

• Dick Chapman grew up in the Wisteria Cottage, which is on the Village Green. There are stories about his “growing” years.

• Dick moved to Pinehurst, again, with his wife, Eloise, in 1947. This is where Dixie grew up, and where the stories about the Demaret and Hogan visits originated.

• Dick was a friend and neighbor of George Marshall.

• He and Eloise founded the “Chapman System of Foursome Play.” Dick then worked with the USGA to devise the mathematical handicap system.

• He played in the Masters 19 times, winning low amateur in 1941 and 1948. Dixie has donated the 1941 medal to the display, which is copper, due to the shortage of metal due to the World War II effort.

• Dick won the North and South Amateur Championship in 1958. He described it as his “most coveted championship” after 24 years of trying.

• For about 10 years (1948-1957), he sponsored the Richard Chapman Memorial Tournament in Pinehurst, in honor of his father.

• Dixie is a real advocate of his father’s legend. He feels that history has slighted him, and has written several letters/articles expressing this opinion.

Stop by the Tufts Archives to learn more about Dick Chapman. In the same showcase are also displays on two other Pinehurst legends: George Dunlap Jr. and Harvie Ward.

Sue Loth

Pinehurst