In the November 20, 1896 issue of Golf, an article about the McEwan family written by "J Anderson" concludes by commenting that McEwan clubs were worthy rivals of Hugh Philp's:

"It would neither be fitting in an article of this kind, nor just to the McEwan firm, to conclude without a reference to the golf clubs which they have turned out, and still turn out. One hears the name of 'Old Philp,' highly lauded; and numberless players have never done talking about the credit due to him for improving clubs in his day, and praising the matchless shape of his productions. Without desiring to detract in the least degree from the credit undoubtedly due to the name of 'Philp,' it may, without exaggeration, be stated that some of the older McEwans’ would equal any club of their period ever produced, either by the St. Andrews maker or by any other one. Mr. McEwan was one of the last makers to leave off the old-fashioned, long, graceful head, and adopt the thick, woody, modern type. It is characteristic of the firm that the stamp, 'McEwan,' is equivalent to a guarantee of good material and good workmanship, and this applies to the present day as well as to the past. The golfer who has gone to 'McEwan' desiring a good club, and stating what he wanted, and who has come away disappointed, has yet to be found."

This c.1860 McEwan long spoon is a handsome example of what J. Anderson was talking about.  The head is long and graceful, with a generous amount of hook to the face. The head on this club measures 6" in length, 2" in width, and 1 1/16" in face depth.  This is notably longer head than what is normally found from this era.

The McEwan stamp is clean and strong, the original finish still looks great. There are a few worm holes on the face that have been filled and can only be seen if looking closely for them and the light is just right. The crack in the top of the head above the heel of the face is there, but it lays flat and is not noticed in normal viewing situations.  It is there, but has a minor impact on what is otherwise a great club.  Original shaft measures 42 1/2" in length and has its original sheepskin grip.