In the late 19th century, most clubs began to align themselves with either the Society of St. Andrews Golfers, later the R&A, or the Gentlemen Golfers of Leith, later the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.
During the latter part of the 19th century, many clubs chose to join either the Society of St. Andrews Golfers, which eventually became the R&A, or the Gentlemen Golfers of Leith, who transformed into the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.