J. Osmond received a British patent dated February 16, 1893, that covered this Automaton club carrier.  According to an 1895 advertisement, “The Legs which support the “Automaton” Caddie open out automatically when the lower end is placed on the ground, and fold up close when it is lifted for carrying.”  Furthermore “A sling can be used for carrying the Caddie in the ordinary way, when a boy is employed.”  It should be noted that Automatons were made with either wire or wooden legs.  The 1895 ad shows the wire legs.

This example is in good working condition.  Set the end on the ground and the legs pop out, ready to stand the bag up as shown.  The leather handles and the single latch strap up near the top are original.  The canvas ball bag and canvas "ET"-marked grip holder at the base of the stand are also original and still in good shape. The wooden legs and wood frame are solid.

Osmond’s Automaton speaks to golf in the 1890s, when the game was new to so many people. Inventors were trying to tap into the rapidly growing market and make their fortune.  Not sure how much money J. Osmond made, but his club carrier is more desirable today than when new!  A great piece!!