The Gilliam Points is named in memory of Walt Gilliam who was the first player to play both of Poplar's old and new courses. Walt was a local guy and was a very good amateur golfer in his time including winning the SF City Golf Championship (1965) and runner up in the California State Amateur (1939, 1954).
Historically, the club started the points list as a means to get members into the TOC (Tournament of Champions) who have not normally qualified by winning a flight during the season. But over time, the points system was changed to its current format of being a simple money list.
The Gilliam Points is essentially the amount of money you have won during the season. There is no conversion rate. One dollar equals one point.