Golf Club Atlas
GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture => Topic started by: ANTHONYPIOPPI on November 11, 2007, 10:18:39 AM
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In 1934 Connecticut became the first to have an aerial survey taken of the entire state. My understanding it that it was done with biplanes from a height of about 5,000 feet. Within the last the entire archive became digitized. Working with Jim Kennedy, Brett Zimmerman and Kyle Zimmerman, were tracked down photos of nearly 100 courses, including some in New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island putting in close to 200 hours of research. Below are instructions and reference numbers to all the courses. .
While many of the courses are fantastic, the biggest surprise was probably the work of Robert Jack Ross, an engineer for the city of Hartford. The work of Devereux Emmet is also astounding, with the privately-owned Hob Nob Hill among our favorites.
If you find any errors, PLEASE EMAIL ME DIRECTLY: Apioppi@earthlink.net.
Enjoy.
Anthony
Directions:
Go to http://cslib.cdmhost.com/cdm4/aerials.php. In the upper right hand corner of the website is a search box. Plug the five-digit number of the corresponding course in and hit “search.” A thumbnail will appear, click on that and a larger version will appear, click on that to enlarge.
One note, the architects listed for courses are those who had worked on the course up to the time of the photograph. The year a course incorporated, broke ground, or opened is not assigned.
Alexander Pope Private Course, Farmington, Unknown (NLE), 06454*
Alling Memorial Golf Course, New Haven, Robert D. Pryde, 10062
Banner Resort and CC- Moodus, Unknown, 06884
Brooklawn Country Club, Fairfield, A.W. Tillinghast, 04341
Canaan Country Club, Unknown, 08356
Candlewood Lake Club, Brookfield, Ted Farley, 07422
Canton Golf Public Golf Course, Robert Ross, (NLE) 09461
Chippanee Golf Club, Bristol, Herbert J. Lagerblade, 06231
Clinton Country Club, Unknown, 03106 (NLE)**
Country Club of Fairfield, Seth Raynor, 05491
Country Club of Farmington, Devereux Emmet, 06408, 06456, 06463
Country Club of New Canaan, Willie Park, Jr., 04764
Country Club of Waterbury, Donald Ross, 07106, 07107
D. Fairchild Wheeler, Fairfield, Robert White, 05516
East Hartford Golf Course, Unknown, 09656
East Mountain Golf Course, Waterbury, William and David Gordon, 07054
Edgewood Golf Club, Cromwell, R.J. Ross, 09207
E. Gaynor Brennan Golf Club, (FKA Hubbard Heights Country Club), Stamford, 04121
Enfield Golf Club, unknown, 07818
Ethel Walker Private Course, Simsbury, Unknown, (NLE) 09529
Fairview Country Club, Greenwich, Unknown, 04037
Fenwick Golf Course, Old Saybrook, Unknown, 02847
Golf Club of Avon, Unknown, 09478
Goodwin Park Golf Course, Hartford, Unknown, 09250
Greenwich Country Club, Seth Raynor, 03975
Grassy Hill Country Club, Orange, Unknown, 03199
Green Woods Country Club, Winsted, Unknown, (NLE) 07931
Harkness Estate Private Course, Watertown, Unknown, (NLE) 00513
Harrisville Golf Course, Woodstock, Aimee Salvas, 01185
Hartford Golf Club, West Hartford, Donald Ross/Devereux Emmet, 08949***
Highland Country Club, Middletown/Meriden, Unknown, 09333 (NLE)
Highland Golf Club, Shelton, Frank G. Gates, 03367
Hop Brook Golf Club, Naugatuck, Unknown, 07063
Hob Nob Hill, Salisbury, Deveux Emmet (NLE), 08187
Hotchkiss School, Salisbury, Seth Raynor, 08126
Hunter Golf Course, Meriden, Robert D. Pryde, 06168
Indian Hill Country Club, Newington, R.J. Ross, 09343
Innis Arden Club, Old Greenwich, J. Kennedy Tod, 04125
Keney Park, Hartford, Devereux Emmet/, 09719
Lake Waramaug, Preston, Unknown, 05911
Litchfield Country Club, Unknown, 07585
Longshore Golf Club, Orrin Smith, 05314
Louis Stoner Private Course, West Hartford, Orrin Smith, 09897 (NLE)
Madison Country Club, Willie Park, Jr., 04447
Manchester Country Club, Tom Bendelow, 06942
Mill River Country Club, Stratford, Thomas Winton, 03400
New Haven Country Club, Willie Park, Jr., 04926
New London Country Club, Waterford, Charlie Brooks, 00209
Newtown Country Club, Unknown, 03761
Norfolk Country Club, Unknown, 09794
Norwich Golf Course, Alfred Tull, 02029
Orange Hills Country Club, Orange, Robert D. Pryde, 03181
Paul Block Private Course, Greenwich, Wayne Stiles & John Van Kleek, 04042 (NLE)
Pequabuck Golf Club, Bristol, Unknown, 06229
Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club, Branford, Robert D. Pryde, 05591
Pleasant View Golf Course, Meriden, Unknown, 06174 (NLE)
Plymouth Meadow Country Club, Windsor, Charles Henderson, 09705 (formerly Windsor Golf Club)
Quinnatisset Country Club, Thompson, Unknown, 01054
Quotonset Golf Club, Westbrook, Unkown, (NLE) 02987 (formerly Westbrook Golf Club)
Racebrook Country Club, Orange, Robert D. Pryde, 03254
Ridgewood Country Club, Danbury, Devereux Emmet, 02633
Rockledge Country Club, West Hartford, Maurice Kearney, 06145
Round Hill Club, Greenwich, Walter Travis, 04015
Salmon Creek Country Club, Granby, Orrin Smith, (NLE) 09816
Sharon Country Club, Unknown, 07279
Shennecossett Golf Course, Groton, Donald Ross, 00464
Shorehaven Golf Club, Norwalk, Robert White, 05250
Shuttle Meadow Country Club, New Britain, Willie Park, Jr., 06471 & 06469
Silver Spring Country Club, Robert White, 07175
Sleeping Giant Golf Course, Hamden, Ralph Barton, 04916
Southington Country Club, Unknown, 06384
Stanley Golf Course, New Britain, R.J. Ross, 06150
Suffield Country Club, Otis Smith, 09690
Sunset Ridge Country Club, East Hartford, Orrin Smith, 09654 (NLE)
Tamarack Country Club, Greenwich, Charles Banks, 04045
The Cedars, Lakeville, Unknown, (NLE), 08128
Torrington Country Club, Goshen, Orrin Smith, 10260
Tumble Brook Country Club, Bloomfield, Willie Park, Jr., 08970
Wallingford Country Club, Unknown, 05666
Wampanoag Country Club, West Hartford, Donald Ross, 08968
Washington Golf Club, David Johnson, 06055
Watertown Country Club, David Cornish, 07478
Wee Burn Country Club, Darien, Devereux Emmet, 04776
West Hartford Golf Club, (now known as Buena Vista Golf Course), Robert Ross, 06146
Wethersfield Country Club, Robert D. Pryde (9), Robert J. Ross (9), 09254
Willimantic Country Club, Unknown, 03657
Windsor Golf Club, Charles Henderson, 09705 (NLE)
Woodbridge Country Club, Orrin Smith, 04809
Woodstock Golf Course, Unknown, 01182
Woodway Country Club, Darien, Willie Park Jr., 04774
Yale Golf Course, New Haven, Seth Raynor, 04811
*Pope Course was six holes. Some green and tee sites visible in the photo. Property is now part of the Hill-Stead Museum.
**The current Clinton Country Club is in a different location.
***Holes south of road bisecting the course no longer exist.
MASSACHUSETTS
Longmeadow Country Club, Donald Ross, 07818
NEW YORK
Blind Brook Club, Port Chester, Seth Raynor, 04039, 04011****
Pound Ridge Country Club, Unknown, 04107
Kings Ridge Country Club, Thomas Winton, 04039*****
Quaker Hill Country Club, Pawling, Lowell Thomas (?), 05691 (NLE)
****An Unknown private course south of Blind Brook is visible in both photos
****Course is at top of photo. Blind Brook is just below.
RHODE ISLAND
Misquamicut Club, Westerly, Donald Ross, 00079
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Tony,
Thanks for inviting me to participate in the hunt, it was fun chasing these places down.
Something I've enjoyed doing since last winter's effort is comparing some of these aerials with their modern day counterparts. It's amazing how many changes have occurred on some(most) of these courses, while others(few) remain fairly intact.
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Tony,
That is a wonderful resource. I've been able to locate a few courses in CT at the Nat'l Archives but often I've been stymied by the incompleteness of the collection there. They don't have the 1934 survey, possibly because it was done by the state and not the Dept of Agriculture. I'm amazed at what states have done with their historical photos compared to the much-better funded Nat'l Archives. NARA hasn't taken the first step to digitize their massive collection and the negatives continue to disintegrate.
Do you know if these photos were digitized from original negatives?
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Craig,
I believe they are from the original negatives. When I first started going there and, still, if you want to view later years, you have to go to the library, track down the photo number, put in a request, and twice a day the photos are brought out of the vault and can only be viewed wearing white gloves.
One reason I wanted to put access to these photos out is so that anyone can see them. Too much of valuable artifacts like this are being horded or hidden by "compilers" who claim to be historians.
Enjoy the collection. I hope it makes you as crazy looking at it as it did us researching it.
Anthony
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Anthony -
Wow! That's really wonderful stuff. My thanks to you, Jim, Brett and Kyle.
Peter
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Peter,
You're welcome. Jim is partial to Hob Nob since it is up in his neighborhood and he has found some remaining features on what is now mostly homes. I love the bunkering that R.J Ross did at Edgewood.
Anthony
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Tony,
Partly 'cause it's 880 yds. from my house to what was the first green. :'(
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....what would that be for you Tony, a driver , nine iron? ;D
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Tony,
I'm sure aerials of most of these aren't available at NARA. I spent a long time at NARA looking for aerials of the Yale GC and was only available to find partial views. However, the quality of photos improved dramatically over the next 10 years. The military collection at NARA - which covered strategic areas and military bases mostly - holds some very high quality photos.
Here's a photo from the 1934 collection of a green at Misquamicutt GC and a photo of the same green from the military collection taken in the 1940s.
(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/cadcaddo/misq1934.jpg)
(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/cadcaddo/green.jpg)
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Craig:
I think part of the problem with the Misquamicut photo is that it is on the fringe of the picture, so there seems to be more distortion than on photos of courses from directly above.
The National Archives and Records Administration is quite the place. Do you do the searching yourself?
Anthony
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Craig:
I think part of the problem with the Misquamicut photo is that it is on the fringe of the picture, so there seems to be more distortion than on photos of courses from directly above.
The National Archives and Records Administration is quite the place. Do you do the searching yourself?
Anthony
The edge problem is certainly present in most of the aerials I've worked with. Fortunately the photos overlap so it's usually possible to get a centered view with little distortion.
I do the searching myself. Anyone can obtain a researcher's card and access to the original material. The retrieval process is very tedious though. My time there would have been cut by 90% if the collections were saved and stored as conveniently as the CT collection.
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Anthony
Thank you for providing this info, I especially enjoyed looking at Seth Raynor's original CC of Fairfield layout!
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Jim,
Also one of my favorites. Under New York, check out Blind Brook and mystery private course just to the south of it.
Anthony
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just got back into town........wow......being a member at new haven this is footage I have never seen.......can see the old holes across hartford tpke!
being from CT I will be on this site for hours!
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Tony,
This is tremendous. As someone who loves to research this stuff, the rapidly increasing amount of vintage materials becoming available at the press of a button is incredibly exciting!
Thanks very much for sharing your sources with us.
Mike
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Mike,
Michael,
I'm glad to know you will be spending hours on this site as we did the same compiling it. Some of the courses are truly amazing. Enjoy.
Mike,
It was our pleasure to provide this information. I realize that most people who visit this site don't give a rat's ass about this sort of information, but the for those that truly love architecture - me included - this is a goldmine.
Anthony
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Great info! I have used the aerial photo of Shenny numerous times, and I look forward to checking out other courses in the state.
Thanks guys for compiling the info!
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Eric,
Glad our little research project is helping you out. The photos of your course are very cool.
Anthony
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Anthony
Another course found in NY - slide 04040 is Old Oaks CC.
The mistory course below Blind Brook slide 04039, appears to be 9 holes, but I could only make out 6 greens.
Familiar enough with Blind Brook - little has changed from 1934. a couple of bunker changes, otherwise it is what it is today.
Kings Ridge -slide 04039 (aka Purchase Golf Course, aka present day 9 holer Doral) is not impressive as an 18 holer.
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Thanks to Eric Morrison, Norwich Country Club architect now reads "Donald Ross."
Jim
Thanks for that info. Any idea who designed Old Oaks and what town it sits?
The course below Blind Brook appears to be 6 holes. I've been in touch with the superintendent at Blind Brook and was not aware there was another course nearby. He could find no one at the club who knew anything about it.
Anthony
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Tony:
Old Oaks in Purchase, NY was designed by Tillinghast. It was originally a 27 hole layout , but 9 holes were claimed by I-684. I can't seem to be able to manipulate the search function, but it would be neat if we could move just a little west to see if we could peer in on the lost nine.
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Alfred Tull!!! Not Donald Ross...?!
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...
The course below Blind Brook appears to be 6 holes. I've been in touch with the superintendent at Blind Brook and was not aware there was another course nearby. He could find no one at the club who knew anything about it.
Anthony
You'll be able to see in the aerial I just emailed you that the small course was gone by 1943. It looks like the owner was a gardener rather than a golfer.
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SPDB,
Problem is you can't, at least not with this group of aerials.
The photos end at the border.
If, when bringing up a photo, you scroll up and click on the town that's in the "Subject-LCSH" heading you will come up with the the index page. Click on any of these and you can look at different parts of the town.
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Tony,
I have no information on the name of the 6-holer but it's location is now a neighborhood. You can see it on any of the map sites for Rye Brook. Just look for N. Ridge St. and Country Ridge Dr., the course sat in this area.
The oldest homes look to be from the '60s.
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I am also amazed at how intact Misquamicut seems to have remained. I had always thought, like so many courses throughout New England, that the back 9 had been Cornish'd, but the aerial provided seems to show a remarkable continuity allowing for minor bunker shrinkage, etc. Oddly, the 17th seems to have been most changed in shape, but I suspect that is owing to flooding, etc, in the low lying areas near the beach.
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Really great, Anthony. When I was growing up in Middlebury my Dad was a member of CC Waterbury. Really amazing how little the course has changed from '34 to now. I never saw, however, any evidence of the bunkers left of the drive zone on #7. Neat.
Once a Nutmegger always a Nutmegger. Thanks.
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SPDB:
I believe you are correct about Misquamicut. If I remember correctly, the the low lying areas across the road were raised about 4 inches a few years back with Ron Forse doing the work and that's when 17 was changed.
Thanks to everyone who has been sending us corrections and clarifications on the courses. We're thrilled that people are enjoying taking a look at these courses.
So what the Christ do we have to do to get a thumbs-up logo next to this post?
Anthony
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;D
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Tony:
This is a wonderful thing you've done here. Great resource. Thanks.
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Tom:
There are some very cool courses on this list that have long ago disappeared. I really like Edgewood and the bunkering, on what is now the site of TPC River Highlands. The routing is completely different but the pond that comes into play on the 16th and 17th holes is visible, as is the little pond in front of what is now 8 green.
Anthony
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One of my favorite aerials is of Wee Burn, which unfortunately was changed dramatically. I've heard a story that the clubhouse was relocated forcing the change. I know that Tom Fazio was in there in recent times and took down hundreds of trees. What else did he do?
Tony
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Just found an aerial of a 1930 Orrin Smith 9-holer called Sunset Ridge Country Club in East Hartford. The Hartford Courant thoroughl covered the project which called for a 75 home lots and an eventual expansion of the course to 18 holes. The course probably succumbed sometime in the 1960s, but I can't be sure.
Although Smith was construction superintendent for a number of talented architects such as Willie Park, Jr., he was unimpressive on his own, however, there appears to be some thought to the bunkering on this nine.
Anthony
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Jim Kennedy has discovered a 9-hole course in Bedford, NY - 03985 for all those playing along at home - any idea what course it is?
Anthony
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Tony,
Don't forget to change the # on Sunset Ridge. ;D
O.E. Smith built some fairly deep and steep (on several holes you're eye-level with the green) bunkers at CC of Torrington and a good set of greens, they are a treat to putt and, for the most part, offer no easy up-and-downs when missed. Ed Goodhouse, the super there for many years, keeps them true, firm, and at breakneck speeds.
The only person who I ever heard call them 'slow' was a member from Oakmont who played at TCC in the Connecticut Amateur back in '94. I have never seen the greens play so fast before, or at anytime after this event.
I caddied for a friend who went 71-65, with a total of 8 putts on the back nine during the afternoon round. J.J. Henry was also fun to watch that day.
Anyway, given the constraints of the property, hilly and only a touch over 100 acres, I'd say OE did a right fine job all by himself.
edit: someone was in there after OE, there have been changes. Ron Forse did a MP for them recently.
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Tom:
There are some very cool courses on this list that have long ago disappeared. I really like Edgewood and the bunkering, on what is now the site of TPC River Highlands. The routing is completely different but the pond that comes into play on the 16th and 17th holes is visible, as is the little pond in front of what is now 8 green.
Anthony
First off, I'm honored to be on this site with such knowledgable golf course fanatics. I have lived and played golf in CT all my life and can't commend Anthony enough on the job done finding all these courses. A few things about Edgewood CC. The road that takes a 90* angle at the NW section of the course still exists as is today. The train tracks still sit as along the CT River today and run along the current 13th hole. The clubhouse sits on the same ground as in 1934. Lastly, after careful review I noticed some of the holes on the western side (left side of sat image) are very similar to the front nine holes of the TPC of Connecticut that was formed in 1982 out of the old Edgewood CC. The holes along the road and over that little pond as well as a couple of others were used in the "rough makeover" into TPC from Edgewood.
TH
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Tony,
Sunset Ridge area East Hartford is right off I-84....I believe there was a school located in that area for many years. That could have been the reason for the redevelopment.
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Some how I missed this thread til now. A.P., Jim, Brett and Kyle, you guys really are champions of the game and its history. Nice work!
Did you try to cross reference any of the unknown's with Stu Bendelow's book. I see your Lictchfield by unknown has a Bendy attribute.
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RJ,
I haven't seen the Bendelow book, but Litchfield CC is dated at 1892 and I think this is before Bendelow's time, unless he showed up there later for remodeling work.
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Todd:
Welcome to the site, but you should not be honored. We're honored that you have decided to join us.
I live in Middletown and worked at River Highlands part time mowing grass the last two summers. None of that course, known for a while as Middletown Country Club, exits today.
RJ:
What do you mean you missed this thread? We work and work and work and this this the thanks Brett, Jim, Kyle and I get?
Michael:
I'm confused. What is in the Sunset Ridge area now? Hartford Courant stories from the day refer to Kennedy Street that intersected with Silver Lane and that is gone as well.
Anthony
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Tony,
I discussed this with my Mom and Dad who are in town. She can remember a golf course off of Burnside Ave near Hillside Cemetary...at least that is what she remembers. The course moved to its current location near the South Windsor border (East Hartford Golf Course) in 1960?
She tells me that the Sunset Ridge area of East Hartford was considered the high-end part of the town during the day...that whole area abutted Pratt and Whitney property (where the Uconn stadium is now) before I-84...Sunset Ridge school (education building) is still there. I presume I-84 took some streets and probably some of the course when built..MC
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Michael,
Sunset Ridge GC was located off Sunset Ridge Dr. and Silver Ln., about 1 1/4 mis. east of present day Rentschler Field, just west of the I-384 exit. Some of it was lost to I-84, some to housing both north and south of the highway, and some to Veteran's Memorial Park.
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Tony,
Thanks for sharing and thanks for all of your research.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Steve
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Michael:
Thanks for the help. I may take a ride out that way Saturday to see what if anything is left.
Tony
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I've finally had some time to check out many of the courses Anthony listed. I love the bunkering of 1934! Where did all those bunkers go? Wampanoag CC (West Hartford) has some fascinating looking bunkers including some cool cross bunkers right in front of tees. Also, Torrington CC has some great bunkering that no longer exists throughout the course. Very addicting checking out all these courses.
TH
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these private estate courses are most interesting....would be fascinating to see if any holes are still in existence in someone's back yard in Greenwich or West Hartford.
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Todd:
Ah the bunkering. Wampanoag was great for that. Too bad the club never saw fit to put them back.
Check out Edgewood Golf Club - TPC River Highlands is on the site now - Indian Hill, Tamarack for cool bunkering as well.
Visited Sunset Ridge today. Club was on a high hill with all the holes around it playing down or up steep inclines. Found one fairway with some other parts perhaps still remaining in deep woods.
Anthony
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Tony,
Wasn't #09705 Windsor GC? I don't see it on the list.
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Jim:
Thanks for the reminder. The only design of Charles Henderson is now on the list.
Anthony
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Tony,
I found out the name of the course in the hamlet of Banksville, town of Bedford, NY which can be seen at map #03985.
I had written the town and they forwarded it to their historian, one Ms. Doris Finch Watson, and here is her reply (condensed):
"You are correct about the 1930s golf course in Banksville. It was called The Westchester Women's Golf & Tennis Club. The building(clubhouse) still stands and is the oldest in Banksville, dating to 1760, and presently houses the famous LaCremaillere Restaurant. The ancient caddie house also remains and is a now a private home.
Before 1940 the name and operation changed to The Westchester Golf Club and men were participants. The property was then purchased and developed by Wm. Jackson and many homes were built in the area. In the 60s a new golf course was developed starting at the southern end of the old course and it was called The Banksville Golf Course. It was a successful 18 hole par-3 course but it too was eventually developed into homes."
There is no indication of who built the course in her letter, but the history is interesting. I had no idea there was a women only course in our area.
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Jim:
Wonderful find, now I can update the list. Please relay all our thanks to Ms. Doris Finch Watson.
I can't find who designed it, can any of our talented GCA participants surmise from the aerial whose it may be?
Anthony
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From the July 15, 1928 New York Times under the headline
COUNTRY CLUB TO OPEN FOR WOMEN IN AUGUST
"A new country club for women will be opened formally early next month when the Westchester Women's Golf and Tenis club will be ready for social functions. The eighteen-hole golf course and tennis course of the club, however, will not be completed by then
The club is situated in Banksvile, N.Y. between Greenwich and Bedford, and old Colonian farmhouse having been remodelled for use as a temporary clubhouse.
Devereaux Emmet has been the architect of the golf course, several holes of which have been arragned to permit varied methods of play. Provisions have been made for horseback riding as well as tennis. Arrangement will be made later for Winter sports."
After listing the club officers and some prominent members, the last paragraph reads, "Although the administration and membership of the club will be limited to women, guest privileges are to be extended to men."
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Is there anything covering Bonnie Briar CC, which is across the street from Winged Foot in Mamaroneck, NY?
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Anthony,
Thank you for compiling that list. I had never checked out the estate courses until relatively recently. Nor had I seen Westchester Women's and Hob Nob Hill! All very interesting.
I didn't see any course on the still for the Ethel Walker course. Am I missing it?
And I agree it would be interesting to find out more about the 18 hole course across the street from Blind Brook.
Thanks,
Colin
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Colin
Played there as a kid. Think it was called Port Chester Country Club. Don't remember much.
Except that it was a hella of lot better than the current "Doral."
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Jeff,
Thanks for that info. Do you remember the architect? Did it remain open like that?
-Colin
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Jeff,
Might have been named something other than PCCC. That course was sold in the late twenties by its members for a school/ residential development. The members of PCCC then bought land and built the Tamarack CC.
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I mis-read Anthony's first post. He had four **** for both courses above and below Blind Brook. Looks like the course across the street is Kings Ridge
Kings Ridge Country Club, Thomas Winton, 04039
And for the course to Blind Brook's south, I cross-referenced the courses from New York in the Estate Courses thread, and it might be one of these three:
De Zerega Private Course -- Unknown
White Reed Private Course (Purchase)
Stern Private Course -- Bendelow
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Here is Whitelaw Reid's Ophir Farm estate, to the west of Blind Brook, and it's part of Manhattanville College today. I believe you can see what looks like a hole or two on the grounds.
(https://circaoldhouses.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/ophirHall.jpg)
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I lived about a mile from Blind Brook from about 1988 to 1995 (just west of Pepsi's current HQ). Also spent time in that area in the 1970's. Here are some facts:
1. Pepsi moved from Park Ave in Manhattan in about 1973ish. The property before was a Polo Club.
2. If you look at the land south of Blind Brook and north of The Hutchinson River Parkway, I would bet lots of $$ that the land with the smaller homes today comprised the golf course (as I recall from the 1980's all of these homes are about the same size and appear to be of about the same age. On the western part of the land (just south of Pepsi) the land is occupied by estates of about 3-5+ acres and the homes are all older. No way was that land part of the golf course (I have not looked at the arial photos yet...which photo numbers show that course best??).
3. I have a good friend who are up about 2 miles away (he is about 73 years old now) and will ask him what he recalls
4. I played the course that was the predecessor to Doral in 1971...is was 18 holes and not really worthy of note. It became "Arrowwood" or "Doral" in the mid 1970's or 1980's I think...was bought by the Kaskel's (DORis and ALfred) who had built DORAL in Miami in the late 1950's or so. The Kaskel's joined Quaker Ridge in about '78-'80 (I joined in '75) and I knew their son Howard a little bit...I can try to find out if he is still around and at QR...my guess is that he would be about 70-72 years old. That son was a very good player and QR club champ at least once in the early 1980's. I forget if Arrowwood preceded Doral or vice versa but the change from 18 to 9 was to built condos on the land as well. One of two things...either it was changed from 18 holes to 9+ real estate as Arrowwood and then purchased later by the Kaskel's...or the Kaskel's purchased the 18 hole course and and built it as Arrowwood and changed the name to DORAL later. The New York Times on 11/9/1986 had an article about the Kaskel's buying Arrowwood but it is not readable without sending the NYT a few bucks (which I absolutely refuse to do , so you can guess who I voted for 😆). Anyone else interested in sending a few bucks to that former newspaper?
5. I am not a real estate lawyer or specialist but I have a strong sense that the deed for the land that was occupied by the 6 hole course south of BB (and the the deeds for each of the smaller houses that sit there and probably built in the 60's or so) would say who owned the land through history (whether that "who" was a person, or a corporation like a club). And that deed I think would be in the public record and findable in gov't files in Harrison, NY or Purchase, NY (Purchase is part of Harrison).
I no longer live near there but will ask old friends.
6. The Manhattanville Campus (next to Old Oaks) was where the movie "Goodbye Columbus" was filmed in the late 1960's
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I updated my post so the text wasn't miniscule.
Here they are
De Zerega Private Course -- Unknown
Whitelaw Reed Private Course (Purchase)
Stern Private Course -- Bendelow
But Based on Jim's post we can rule out the Whitelaw Reed estate.
Paul,
I just emailed you an image of the estate.
It's a nice little six hole course.
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Jim
Thanks for the info! Sounds about right.
I do have an old matchbook from Tamarack that has a Port Chester (not Greenwich) address on it so that makes sense. Wonder how/when Greenwich annexed it... ;D
Paul
Thanks for info. Might as well send that $$$ to the NY Post. Fine investigative journalism there...
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This relates to the course seen just south of Blind Brook as well as the origins of Doral/Arrowwood...both in Purchase, NY next to the NY/CT state line.
1. go to: https://www.ebay.com/itm/1910-G-W-BROMLEY-WESTCHESTER-NEW-YORK-PORT-CHESTER-COUNTRY-CLUB-ATLAS-MAP-/232255046799 (https://www.ebay.com/itm/1910-G-W-BROMLEY-WESTCHESTER-NEW-YORK-PORT-CHESTER-COUNTRY-CLUB-ATLAS-MAP-/232255046799)
now look at:1. estates on right hand edge…in middle is “Bush Estate”…bet lots of $$ the Walker Cup came from that plot of land
2. then look further up on the right edge…Portchester CC (lessee), John Lyons (owner)…and Lyon’s estate sits next to Buch estate and is bigger 😆
My bet is that Porchester CC was founded around 1895-1905 and was located as marked here (which is much closer to LI Sound than Blind Brook and Doral), and later moved up to the Doral spot ( I am 75% sure the course I played in 1970 or ’71 was Portchester CC)…which was not a private club then. And Kaskel’s bought it and converted to 9 holes in ’86. NOTE CORRECTION...heard from Kaskel's son that they purchased what was called Arrowwood in 1986 and it had been already been changed to 9 holes + condo's...so the change from 18 holes happened between 1970 and 1986. My other sources do not recall it from its 18 hole days
And I also learned from friend who is a retired real estate attorney that deeds general list the succession of prior ownership (and lessees) so some of these old NLE courses can be determined by looking at deeds in local offices
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Here is how you get to the aerials now
https://connecticut.maps.arcgis.com/apps/View/index.html?appid=044e8e6266aa44dc8ccc9b6e2eecacb4&extent=-74.8197,40.6374,-70.2054,42.4665
Click "I accept."
On the top left corner there looks to be an icon of three floating squares. Click on that. You'll see an index pop up on right, click on the year you want, have at it.
Peace.
Anthony
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Hi Paul (and all),
Perhaps I can clean up some of your inquiries.
1. The course NORTH of Blind Brook, across Anderson Hill Road, which is now Doral-Arrowood dates to the 1930s, was once 18 holes, had a brief experimentation with "lighted night golf," and... as best as I can tell, it has been 9 holes since between the period from the 1954 aerials to the 1960 aerials. It was called:
then...
- Purchase CC (it was Purchase from at least 1963 until I "believe" the Doral conversion ca. 1980)...the similar names may have led you to "75%" believe that this was a spawn of Portchester, which I do not believe is true.
2. The Portchester CC you have referenced in this thread was indeed much closer to downtown PC center, in what is now a long-gentrified neighborhood a bit north of PCHS and between Lyon and Crawford Parks. I have seen a property map of this (but cannot retrieve now). From all cursory investiagtions, though it may have been an old course dating back to the 00ughts, it seems to have been an antique, small course that was short-lived past the 20s. I'm not aware of that club seeding any other in the area.
3. The course/golf holes you have identified, which appear immediately south of Blind Brook, between it and the Hutch, I have always chalked up to an private estate course, with nothing further available to this point.
OTHER:
While scenes from Goodbye Columbus may have also been shot down the street at the Whitelaw Reid/Manhattanville campus, the Old Oaks clubhouse itself (most notably the pool) was indeed featured in the movie. Confusion on that may stem from two different oligarchs named "Re(id)"... Whitelaw ReId's (older) estate is now Manhattanvile.... Old Oak's ReEd is William A. Reed, founder of a NY investment firm. His estate mansion, originally called Hillcrest and built in 1890 is the clubhouse of Old Oaks.
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There are 1925-1926 aerials available from Westchester County. The courses to the north and south of Blind Brook were not in the ground as of 1925-1926. You can see the old Port Chester Country Club if you click on the dot next to today’s Port Chester High School. You can also see the old Whippoorwill course in this collection among many others.
Here’s a link. Just click on the box for 1925-1926 and select a dot closest to the location you are trying to view. When the box pops up, click on: “More Info” and the image will appear.
https://wcgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5f4e1a4ac86649f9a644ae1288416ee9 (https://wcgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5f4e1a4ac86649f9a644ae1288416ee9)
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Bret,
Thank you for the link. Is there a similar link for Nassau and Suffolk counties?
Regarding courses in the mid-20s collection.
Is that Knollwood in the process of being redesigned?
Does anyone know what the existing design attribution for Knollwood and Sunningdale in those images?
Thanks,
Colin
And what would be the design attribution to Sunningdale in that image?
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https://lrv.nassaucountyny.gov/map/ (https://lrv.nassaucountyny.gov/map/)
https://gis3.suffolkcountyny.gov/gisviewer/ (https://gis3.suffolkcountyny.gov/gisviewer/)
Here are the Nassau and Suffolk county aerial viewers.
For Nassau you need to click on the Layers tab in the upper right hand corner. When the box drops down, click on the 1926 aerial layer to the right of the screen.
For Suffolk County you will need to click on the icon that looks like 4 boxes in the upper right hand corner. From there you can select the year. This viewer only goes back to 1947, but Suffolk County does have records of aerials from 1929/1930. Here is a link to that page as well. Scroll half way down the page to find this index map.
https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Planning-and-Environment/Cartography-and-GIS#historic (https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Economic-Development-and-Planning/Planning-and-Environment/Cartography-and-GIS#historic)
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I am planning on bringing this thread back to life to give it a much needed update. I am still loading aerial photographs for now, but I thought I would include this aerial photograph of Sleeping Giant in Hamden, CT designed by Ralph Barton. I just about fell out of my chair when I looked at this one. It appears Ralph Barton built a Biarritz green at Sleeping Giant. Unfortunately, this hole no longer exists.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qndGogTXypQmAPbL5pRBYZ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8d7309a6-81b4-41fa-b117-edd6393f122f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
A close-up of the Biarritz complex:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_eUDsjGMkpf5FCHsRooKynu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7bcd642c-db3a-4798-b8f7-c4eeed1b581c)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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A very Yale like Biarritz having to clear the Mill River then right?
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I am planning on bringing this thread back to life to give it a much needed update. I am still loading aerial photographs for now, but I thought I would include this aerial photograph of Sleeping Giant in Hamden, CT designed by Ralph Barton. I just about fell out of my chair when I looked at this one. It appears Ralph Barton built a Biarritz green at Sleeping Giant. Unfortunately, this hole no longer exists.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qndGogTXypQmAPbL5pRBYZ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8d7309a6-81b4-41fa-b117-edd6393f122f)
A close-up of the Biarritz complex:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_eUDsjGMkpf5FCHsRooKynu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7bcd642c-db3a-4798-b8f7-c4eeed1b581c)
Bret-I don’t remember the Biarritz green being there in the late 1960’s/early 1970’s.
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Tim,
I believe it was gone by 1951 and replaced with todays hole which plays in the opposite direction over the river.
Bret
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A very Yale like Biarritz having to clear the Mill River then right?
Nigel,
I agree it does look very Yale like and I think you’re right about the Mill River.
Bret
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Here's a slideshow about Edward Harkness, Yale class of 1897, and his Eolia Estate in Waterford, Connecticut. It had a nine hole course on the Long Island Sound.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/RP4onM34bcaut7p16 (https://photos.app.goo.gl/RP4onM34bcaut7p16)
I can't quite figure out the routing. Would love for someone to take a stab.
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Colin,
Here is my idea of how the course was routed in 1934. There are two par 3 holes on the perimeter of the property that are hard to see. The third green was on the very east of the property and the 6th hole was on the very west of the property. You played to the same green for the 4th and 8th holes at the point.
This course was actually located in Waterford, CT. The original list had Watertown. Today the land is occupied by Harkness State Park. Some of the bunker scars can still be seeni n the ground and the estate house still stands.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_19RCAqzGvXVAqbiMycXSea.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6527a3e6-b8dd-4df1-89eb-5265d1a0fb2a)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation. (With Annotations)
The 3rd green was eventually abandoned and the course rerouted slightly. Here is a later aerial with more bunkers and one less green (The original 3rd):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5768.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/dbcaf343-e397-4d75-bfa9-2b11ab545845)
One more later aerial with the first and second holes cut off:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5767.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/48a7bb95-3280-4d25-8a90-2d0f629cdf30)
Bret
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UPDATED 1934 CONNECTICUT AERIAL LIST
I have gone over all of these changes with Anthony Pioppi, Jim Kennedy and Brett Zimmerman, the originators of this list.
I have labeled all of the existing golf courses by their most recent name. The only exceptions are Edgewood, now TPC at River Highlands and Westport Country Club which is now Birchwood Country Club. These two courses share similar sites, but little else. Three duplicate entries have been removed including Windsor Golf Club (Plymouth Meadow); Taft School (Watertown Golf Club) and Fairview Country Club. The aerial on the Fairview frame is a duplicate of the Paul Block Estate which shares some of the land Fairview owns today.
Two sub-categories have been created to include former and future courses. These courses were either NLE by 1934 or hadn’t been built by 1934, so their assigned aerials do not show an active golf course. These entries somehow made their way onto the list many years ago and no one really knows how. We have included these listings at the bottom to maintain consistency with the original list.
For the architects, we tried to list any known architect who contributed to the 1934 design we see in the aerial. We have made a few changes to the architects in the original list based on information uncovered in the last 10-15 years. There are a few questionable entries and many unknowns waiting to be discovered, so feel free to ask questions. If you have any additions or corrections, please feel free to share.
Link to aerial finding aid:
https://cslib.contentdm.oclc.org/customizations/collection/p4005coll10/pages/indexes/digital_idx_map_state_1934.html (https://cslib.contentdm.oclc.org/customizations/collection/p4005coll10/pages/indexes/digital_idx_map_state_1934.html)
Alling Memorial Golf Course, New Haven, Robert D. Pryde, 10062. FKA-New Haven Municipal GC
Beardsley Park Golf Course, Bridgeport, Unknown, 03452 (NLE)
Brooklawn Country Club, Fairfield, A.W. Tillinghast, 04341
Buena Vista, West Hartford, Robert J. Ross/Maurice Kearney, 06146. FKA-West Hartford Golf Club
Canaan Country Club, North Canaan, Unknown, 08356
Candlewood Lake Club, Brookfield, Ted Farley, 07422
Canton Public Golf Course, Canton, Robert J. Ross, 09461 (NLE)
Cheshire Country Club, Cheshire, Unknown, (NLE)
Chippanee Country Club, Bristol, Herbert C. Lagerblade, 06231. FKA-Chippanee Golf Club
Clarkhurst Ranch Golf Course, East Hampton, Unknown, 06974 (NLE)
Clinton Country Club, Clinton, Unknown, 03106 (NLE)
Cogswell Brook Golf Club, Ellington, Unknown, 02302 (NLE)
Country Club of Fairfield, Seth Raynor, 05491
Country Club of Farmington, Devereux Emmet, 06408,06455, 06456, 06463
Country Club of New Canaan, Willie Park, Jr., 04764
Country Club of Waterbury, Donald Ross, 07106, 07107
Cummings Park Golf Course, Stamford, Unknown, 04782 (NLE)
D. Fairchild Wheeler Golf Course, Fairfield, Robert White, 05516. 36 holes.
East Hartford Golf Club, Orrin Smith, 09656. FKA-Long Hill Country Club
East Mountain Golf Course, Waterbury, Wayne Stiles & John Van Kleek, 07054. FKA-Waterbury Municipal Golf Course
Edgewood Golf Club, Cromwell, Robert J. Ross/Maurice Kearney, 09207 (NLE). Current site of TPC at River Highlands
E. Gaynor Brennan Golf Course, Stamford, Maurice McCarthy, 04121. FKA-Hubbard Heights CC
Enfield Golf Club, Enfield, Unknown, 07818 (NLE)
Farmingbury Hills Golf Course, Wolcott, Robert D. Pryde, 06275. FKA Mattatuck Golf Club, Chase Country Club.
Fenwick Golf Course, Old Saybrook, Unknown, 02847
Glastonbury Public Golf Course, Glastonbury, Unknown, 09152 (NLE) FKA Williams Memorial GC
Golf Club of Avon, Avon, Robert J. Ross, 09478
Goodwin Park Golf Course, Hartford, Harry Jackson original 9, Robert J. Ross redesign, 09250
Goose Run Golf Course (Military), Groton, Unknown, 00457
Grassy Hill Country Club, Orange, Unknown, 03199. FKA-Wepawaug Country Club, Orange Country Club
Great Neck Country Club, Waterford, Charlie Brooks, 00209. FKA-New London Country Club
Greenfield Hill Country Club, Fairfield, Unknown, 05480 (NLE)
Greenwich Country Club, Greenwich, Lawrence Van Etten, Barker, Macdonald/Raynor, White, 03975
Green Woods Country Club, Winsted, Unknown, 07931
Guilford Lakes Golf Course, Guilford, Gardner Wheeler, 04472
Harkness Estate Private Course, Waterford, Unknown, 00513 (NLE)
Harrisville Golf Course, Woodstock, John Salvas, 01185
Hartford Golf Club, West Hartford, Devereux Emmet/Alfred Williams, 08949. 27 Holes
Highland Country Club, Middletown/Meriden, Robert D. Pryde, 09333 (NLE)
Highland Golf Club, Shelton, Frank H. Gates, 03367
Hob Nob Hill Golf Course, Salisbury, Devereux Emmet, 08187 (NLE) AKA-Fulton Private Estate Golf Course
Honey Pot Country Club, Cheshire, Unknown, 06370 (NLE)
Hop Brook Golf Club, Naugatuck, Unknown, 07063
Hotchkiss School, Salisbury, Seth J. Raynor, Charles H. Banks, 08126
Hunter Memorial Golf Course, Meriden, Robert J. Ross, 06168. FKA Meriden Municipal Golf Course
Indian Hill Country Club, Newington, Robert J. Ross, 09343. FKA-Maple Hill, Sequin, New Britain GC
Indian Neck Golf Course, Branford, 05583 (NLE)
Innis Arden Club, Old Greenwich, A. W. Tillinghast, 04125
Keney Park, Hartford/Windsor, Devereux Emmet-9, Robert J. Ross-9, 09719
Lake Waramaug, New Preston, Unknown, 05911
Litchfield Country Club, Litchfield, Robert D. Pryde, 07585
Longshore Golf Course, Westport, Orrin Smith, 05314. FKA Longshore Country Club, Westport-Longshore
Louis Stoner Private Course, West Hartford, Orrin Smith, 09897 (NLE)
Madison Country Club, Willie Park, Jr.-9, Orrin Smith-9, 04447
Manchester Country Club, Tom Bendelow-9, Devereux Emmet-9, 06942
Meadow Brook Country Club, Centerville (Hamden), Unknown, 04922 (NLE)
Milbrook Golf Club, Greenwich, Unknown, 04078
Mill River Country Club, Stratford, Thomas Winton, Robert D. Pryde , 03400
New Haven Country Club, Willie Park, Jr., 04926
Newtown Country Club, George Sparling, 03761
Norfolk Country Club, A. W Tillinghast, 09794. (Upper Right)
Norfolk Downs Golf Club, Norfolk, Unknown, 09794 (NLE) (Lower Right)
Norwich Golf Course, Norwich, Tull & Tull, 02029
Old Lyme Country Club, Old Lyme, Unknown, 07237
Orange Hills Country Club, Orange, Robert D. Pryde, 03181
Paul Block Private Estate Course, Greenwich, Stiles & Van Kleek, 04042 (NLE)
Pequabuck Golf Club, Terryville (Plymouth), Unknown, 06229
Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club, Branford, Robert D. Pryde, 05591
Pleasant View Golf Course, Meriden, Unknown, 06174 (NLE)
Plymouth Meadow Country Club, Windsor, Charles Henderson, 09705 (NLE). FKA-Windsor Golf Club
Pomfret Country Club, Pomfret Center, Arthur G. Lockwood, 01217
Putnam Country Club, Putnam, Unknown, 01088 (NLE)
Quinnatisset Country Club, Thompson, Unknown, 01054
Quotonset Golf Club, Westbrook, Unknown, 02987 (NLE) FKA-Westbrook Golf Club
Racebrook Country Club, Orange, Robert D. Pryde, 03254. 36 holes
Ridgewood Country Club, Danbury, Devereux Emmet, 02633
Rockledge Golf Course, West Hartford, Robert J. Ross/Maurice Kearney, 06145
Round Hill Club, Greenwich, Walter Travis, 04015
Salmon Brook Country Club, Granby, Orrin Smith, 09816 (NLE). 36 Holes
Sharon Country Club, Sharon, Unknown, 07279
Shennecossett Golf Course, Groton, Donald Ross, 00464
Shorehaven Golf Club, Norwalk, Willie Park Jr./Robert White, 05250
Shuttle Meadow Country Club, Kensington (Berlin), Willie Park, Jr., 06471 & 06469
Silver Spring Country Club, Ridgefield, Robert White, 07175
Shenipset Golf Club, Rockville (Vernon), Robert D. Pryde, 02302 (NLE)
Sleeping Giant Golf Course, Hamden, Ralph Barton, 04916. FKA Giant Valley Country Club
Southington Country Club, Southington, Unknown, 06384
Stafford Springs Golf Club, Stafford, Robert D. Pryde, John Shippen, 01710 (NLE)
Stanley Golf Course, New Britain, Robert J. Ross, 06150
Stonington Manor Inn Golf Course, Stonington, Maurice Kearney, 00155 (NLE)
Suffield Country Club, Suffield, Orrin Smith, 09690
Sunset Ridge Country Club, East Hartford, Orrin Smith, 09654 (NLE)
Tamarack Country Club, Greenwich, Charles Banks, 04045
Terre Haute Golf Course, Bethel, Unknown, 03950
The Cedars, Lakeville, Unknown, 08128 (NLE)
Torrington Country Club, Goshen, Orrin Smith, 10260
Tumble Brook Country Club, Bloomfield, Willie Park Jr., 08970
Wallingford Country Club, Wallingford, Unknown, 05666
Wampanoag Country Club, West Hartford, Donald Ross, 08968
Washington Golf Club, Washington, Unknown. 06055
Watertown Golf Club, Seth Raynor-9, Unknown-9, 07478 (9-NLE)
Wee Burn Country Club, Darien, Devereux Emmet, 04776
Westport Country Club, Westport, Unknown, 05302 (NLE). Current site of Birchwood Country Club
Wethersfield Country Club, Robert D. Pryde-9, Jack Stait and Sidney Covington-9, Orrin Smith-(R), 09254
Wilcox Country Club, Milford, Unknown, 03193 (NLE)
Winchell Smith Private Estate Course, Farmington, Unknown, 06409 (NLE)
Windham Golf Course, Willimantic, Edward Connery, 03657. FKA-Willimantic Country Club
Woodbridge Country Club, Orrin Smith, 04809 (NLE) FKA-Woodbridge Hills Country Club
Woodstock Golf Course, Woodstock, Robert Bonar, 01182
Woodway Country Club, Darien, Willie Park Jr., 04774
Yale Golf Course, New Haven, Seth Raynor, 04811
CONNECTICUT FORMER COURSES NLE BY 1934 AERIAL
Alfred Pope Private Estate Course, Farmington, Unknown, 06454 (NLE)
Danbury Golf Club, Danbury, Unknown, 07400 (NLE)
Danielson Golf Club, Danielson, Unknown, 01077 (NLE). FKA-Quinebaug Golf Club
Ethel Walker Golf Course, Simsbury, Unknown, 09529 (NLE)
Shenipset Golf Club, Rockville, Robert D. Pryde, 02302 (NLE)
CONNECTICUT FUTURE COURSES REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL 1934 AERIAL LIST
Banner Resort and Country Club, Moodus, Built in 1957,
Deercrest Country Club, Greenwich, Built in 1955,
MASSACHUSETTS
Longmeadow Country Club, Longmeadow, Donald Ross, 07818
NEW YORK
The Blind Brook Club, Rye Brook, Seth Raynor, 04039, 04011
Pound Ridge Golf Club, Pound Ridge, Unknown, 04107. FKA-High Ridge Country Club
King’s Ridge Country Club, Rye Brook, Thomas Winton, 04039. (NLE) AKA-Green Valley Country Club, Doral-Arrowhead Golf Course
Old Oaks Country Club, Purchase, Albert W. Tillinghast, 04040. FKA Progress Country Club
Robert J. Law Private Estate Course, Rye Brook, Unknown, 04039. (NLE) AKA-Law Ridge
Westchester Women’s Golf & Tennis Club, Banksville, Devereux Emmet, 03985 (NLE). AKA Middle Patent Club
RHODE ISLAND
The Misquamicut Club, Westerly, Donald Ross, 00079
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The link in the original post doesn't work. Is there a new link?
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Stewart,
Here is a new link:
https://cslib.contentdm.oclc.org/customizations/collection/p4005coll10/pages/indexes/digital_idx_map_state_1934.html (https://cslib.contentdm.oclc.org/customizations/collection/p4005coll10/pages/indexes/digital_idx_map_state_1934.html)
I have taken screenshots of all of the courses and will be loading them on here shortly, similar to Sven’s Wisconsin Aerial Photograph thread.
Bret
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Bret,
Thanks for that. Where did you get those other images?
The thing I could could never quite figure out was where the second green was. I presumed it was just in what looked like the same cut of fairway.
I saw later today you wrote an article and posted some images with a scorecard. I couldn't get past the paywall. Was the card based on anything you had found? I had emailed my contact at the USGA if there were any cards in the CT file for Eolia or Edward Harkness Estate and nothing turned up.
I look forward to your posts. Thank you for doing it. Many of them are on this list. And I have some more, like the Bloch Estate and Women's Westchester to add that I have meant to get around to doing.
https://goo.gl/photos/wwArnTF9n4WVY23u7 (https://goo.gl/photos/wwArnTF9n4WVY23u7)
I think I looked at nearly all the ones on the list but I'm sure there's a few I missed. A few years ago I was interested in the various estate courses and there was at least one or maybe two that didn't correspond with original post.
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Colin,
I have always enjoyed your aerial collection and reference it often. For some reason, I forgot about all of your Connecticut courses in your collection. I could have saved myself a lot of work. Your images are exceptionally clear compared to many I will be posting.
I just wanted to clarify I didn’t write the story that appeared in The Day, but Anthony Pioppi and I did consult with the writer and staff artist to come up with a routing for their aerial photograph. Their photograph (which I posted earlier) was from the 1940’s and by that point, the third hole had been eliminated and a new short hole was added between the 6th and 7th holes. The writer, John Ruddy also had a very grainy copy of the original 1938 scorecard which the staff artist Scott Ritter recreated. One of the problems we ran into on the scorecard was that because the numbers were so grainy on the copy a few yardages were difficult to interpret. The numbers we thought we were reading didn’t add up to the total yardage, which I have never encountered before. I think we got it as close as possible, but it is just a recreation at the end of the day.
The writer also had a quickly scribbled description of how the course played in 1936 written by an old superintendent of the grounds. In these notes, he mentions the original 3rd green out to the east and how you played the 4th and 8th holes to the same green. I feel like the 1934 aerial routing is very accurate based on the old superintendents notes. The routing for the 1940 aerial that the newspaper wanted may not be as accurate, because the short hole between 6 and 7 was a little confusing. I was going to post a link to the article yesterday, but I noticed the paywall as well. I have a hard copy from the actual newspaper if you’d like me to send you a copy.
I agree the second green is very hard to see in the 1934 aerial, it becomes more apparent when you see the later aerials. I have.a bunch of pictures from walking the property where you can see old bunkers and hole corridors and just the setting in general. The beach section of the property was stunning. I think I posted a few pictures to the Private Estate courses thread on here, but I can’t find it now.
I had never gone through all of these aerial slides before this, although I have looked at most of them, so I also had trouble locating some of the courses in the still provided. I think because there were three or four people working on it originally, not many people have looked at all of the slides. I think Ethel Walker Private Estate was one of the courses you mentioned earlier in the thread. I also could not locate a golf course in this still. Ethel Walker School was founded in 1911, so by 1934 it was actually a school and not an estate. Regardless, I couldn’t find a course at the school or an estate in the still.
Some of the other courses I could not locate were Banner Resort, Danielson Golf Club in Danielson, Indian Neck in Branford, and Deercrest in Stamford. Banner wasn’t built until 1957-1958, Deercrest wasn’t built until the 40’s or 50’s and it was located in Greenwich (not Stamford), just north of Stanwich. The code for Deercrest is actually E. Gaynor Brennan in Stamford. The code given for E. Gaynor Brennan was the Westchester Women’s Golf & Tennis Club, which later became The Middle Patent Club. These are some of the issues I am trying to sort out with this update.
Bret
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Colin,
One of the additions I have for the list is the Winchell Smith Estate in Farmington, CT. I would have never found this one if it weren’t for the October 1931 cover of The National Greenkeeper. This looked like a very small-scale pitch and putt course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_afAP3xHL6ZThgEeviqCyRj.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7481411d-f660-48e7-853c-10454b898bbd)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
A slightly zoomed in look, it’s still very grainy but you can make out some of the bunkers and corridors seen in the cover photo below.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jdx6GewHweZKdiWWRuWwQv.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/99c820c8-db27-431f-a0de-29baad4317d4)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5769.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/67fbb868-bc8f-42c2-8391-1db30240791f)
Bret
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Alling Memorial Golf Course-New Haven, CT. FKA-New Haven Municipal Golf Course
18 Holes, 6,000 Yards, Par 71:1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide;
1929 AAGG: Under Construction
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1929.
1934 Aerial:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5557_ge77UnEK4ZBvfBY1sZEkKN.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/70d4c715-d040-45ea-82e0-66885798227b)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5774.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f2c56467-4afe-4b5c-bc8f-c6480e45de7c)
Story about the New Haven Municipal Golf Course mentioning Robert Pryde. The rest of the story can found in the link below this page.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qysQcqsZ7wQjS38VYVVQun.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/49d404ef-48c4-4189-81e1-c985dedc6ded)
https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1933mar50.pdf (https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1933mar50.pdf)
Beardsley Park Golf Course-Bridgeport, CT. (NLE)
9 Holes, 2,300 Yards, Par 33: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1913
This is a new addition to the original list. This course is difficult to make out. The clubhouse is at the bottom of the frame and you can even see cars lining the road. It appears you would play one hole north, cross the river, then play 7 holes before crossing back over the river to finish up in the same field you started. The Beardsley course lasted until D. Fairchild Wheeler was opened. D. Fairchild Wheeler was still under construction in the 1934 aerial, but one of their 18-hole courses looked like it may have been ready for play at this point. This aerial ishows the Beardsley Park course just before (or just after) it closed.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7eAV2eni8PZmgN5JG9LdJV.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0f7f9165-5dad-40ce-b219-e0034f559529)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1920’s postcard showing the first tee:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5918.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b421d513-729e-41a3-a424-4dcea401f48b)
Another postcard picture from the course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5917.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/53b76719-320f-427d-b112-96c43ec86adc)
Sven sent over a story about the opening of Beardsley Park, I changed the date of establishment accordingly. The Bridgeport Times and Evening Farmer., May 29, 1913:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_87m5pUcqnhify4ZGAXmVuk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/934600cf-af26-43cf-b17f-81ef013f98b1)
Interesting article/interview with Al Ciuci talking about getting Gene Sarazen started in golf at the Beardsley Park links. The article also talks about Gene at Brooklawn Country Club (below). This is the first page of the article, the rest can be found on the link below this page.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mnWsT9SZQXLhAPW91fALif.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1f1d4e8c-bfdd-4b71-8389-59f042267591)
https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1949sep44.pdf (https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1949sep44.pdf)
Brooklawn Country Club-Fairfield, CT
18 Holes, 6,241 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Albert W. Tillinghast. Established in 1895.
Postcard photo of original clubhouse, near today’s 15th green:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3Jx3VYS4uAeSvJFhhkBysH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8c6ed762-f4b6-479b-ae81-5d696d82f994)
Postcard photo showing clubhouse and 18th hole:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sh1yNpr4SajT4JhkBAMkGW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/73a04e5e-e8db-4cf3-b661-de8ae2572d6c)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pgys78iALaG2Uh5QXmhAF1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/868c2a8b-333d-4fa0-8884-0bdd9b83da31)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5777.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e731c3cf-ab35-440e-87bf-b51a67cb251e)
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Brett: Thank so much for these terrific photos. Brooklawn is where I grew up caddying (5 years). A wonderful golf course.
Such a hoot to see my elementary school Our Lady of Assumption pointed out, alongside the Rooster River, which actually gets some screen time in my latest film "THE GREATEST RADIO STATION IN THE WORLD." Beardsley Park is also mentioned in my film, but long after it was a golf course.
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Cob,
You’re welcome. I had that label on there by mistake, but I am glad it could bring back some fond memories. I think of Brooklawn as a wonderful course as well. Thanks for sharing your experience. Good Luck with the film, I’d like to see it.
Bret
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Buena Vista Golf Course-West Hartford, CT. FKA-West Hartford Golf Club
9 Holes. 3,300 Yards. Par 34: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert J. Ross/Maurice Kearney. Established in 1927.
Today's course is only 1,832 yards. Several of the holes have been redesigned onto the smaller footprint, but a few original holes and greens remain.
Early story on West Hartford Golf Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jBsyy9ESTQPUL2A8jSkkA9.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8e40e3f5-69a0-4986-8e56-c2fc454f56e0)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ePXZvXqRyXmPd5CLcZn3Lb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e80d14e4-f986-455c-b86c-51bd475e5bbf)
1934 Aerial:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pwKqs3vaQoa4WN2itEsJEn.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/529a28e6-43c4-4c3a-b08e-fda7afc6c122)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5778.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/86ef8ae3-c619-4611-8255-a614841cb9e6)
Canaan Country Club-North Canaan, CT
No listing in 1930-1931.
9 Holes, 2,862 Yards, Par 35: Modern Scorecard
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1927.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_oazo8xn6KURkyak7VzMB83.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f5f42e6c-c730-4467-96d7-c197b22b0a78)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5779.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a04a0f58-323d-4562-a7b7-8a2bcaea445a)
Candlewood Lake Club-Brookfield, CT
No listing in 1930-1931.
9 Holes. 1,775 Yards, Par 30: Modern Scorecard
Designed by: Ted Farley? Established in 1931.
I’m not 100% sure we are looking at a golf course in this 1934 aerial, but this was on the list and shows the eastern portion of the property you see in the modern aerial below. The history of the Club notes it was founded in 1931. However, they make it sound like the first five holes of the golf course were built in 1937. Regardless of whether these were golf holes they didn’t make it into today's course, which was designed primarily by Alfred Tull. Ted Farley who is listed as the architect for this course was actually one of the developers of Candlewood Lake.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ndFgG8Prh2wRtdYAY9PpoW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/71ab0462-55c0-4f9f-93ea-6f71a0a0d8b3)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5780.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/9833908d-0687-4419-ba10-fbcdfbcf23f7)
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Canton Public Golf Course-Canton, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931.
9 Holes, 3,068 Yards, Par 36: Modern Scorecard (prior to course closing)
Designed by Robert J. Ross. Established in 1932.
Canton Public Golf Course lasted until the late 1990’s, early 2000’s before it was developed into a shopping center. Canton was one of the few courses open for winter golf in the area, so I enjoyed many winter rounds here. The shopping center developers restored and moved the golf club’s old barn which still stands on the property today. You can still see where a few holes existed in the surrounding property. One hole was actually across the street from the shopping center, but its fate was the same. One bunker remains in the garden landscape outside the shopping center as a reminder.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sRemARJZGnrCb4ytCdAyKL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/59c577bf-ea6a-4c1a-a851-3298d9fb2285)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Cheshire Country Club-Cheshire, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931
5 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown Established in 1917
See Reply 95 below for more information.
1934 Aerial
Chippanee Country Club-Bristol, CT
9 Holes, 3,165 Yards, Par 35: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Herbert C. Lagerblade. Established in 1924.
I wish I had more information on Herbert Lagerblade handy, but I will try to summarize from memory. He purchased the patent rights for the steel shaft from A.F. Knight and was hugely responsible for the success of steel shafted clubs. For many years they were made in Bristol, Connecticut and you may have even seen the old advertisements for Bristol Steel Shafts. His company was called the Horton Manufacturing Company and they also produced steel fly rods.
Herbert Lagerblade was a former professional at the Country Club of Buffalo and was reported as one of Ross’ teaching assistants at Pinehurst in the winter. He appeared to be a very good player who had been associated with Pequabuck (formerly Highland) in Terryville, before breaking off to Chippanee, which is only 3 miles away. I will try to add some articles at a later time.
History of steel shafts written by Herbert Lagerblade can be found here:
https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1954jul52.pdf (https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1954jul52.pdf)
Lagerblade designed the front nine in 1924 and a second nine was added by “members” in the 1950’s, according to the previous club’s history. (Chippanee Golf Club)
Herbert Lagerblade advertised as one of the pros at Pinehurst in 1919.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dfMb3rPj7K8qYsAzfTmLEk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b695b115-ee06-4b99-a3a8-b839a8baba7d)
Herbert Lagerblade leaving the professional golf ranks. Youngstown, Ohio and Pinehurst are mentioned:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mDZWuyVRcTXY2XbRVk3rJq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0c085d22-73b7-4775-abd7-735d4b845add)
Chippanee Country Club opens in 1924:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8fpro7BKxxfMXRR17AJrVS.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b8f5b5f8-7cda-43cb-8708-1a46158e9c16)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7bLMd1XbTUQNjrXekQLQNG.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/492614ae-4b4f-4fd6-9f57-0f3c32fac00f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5781.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/19f7ff89-bb9d-4b65-bd54-b22195d74417)
Clarkhurst Ranch Golf Course, East Hampton, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by:Unknown. Established in the 1920’s.
This is a recent find from Jim Kennedy and I don’t have a lot of information on this particular course. Maybe Jim can chime in at some point?
Sven included some information in reply 100 . The Clarkhurst Ranch golf course was located in East Haddam on the old estate of George, Henry and Thomas Clark. The 9-hole golf course ran along the shore of the Connecticut River. Once the golf course was built, the estate appears to have become a resort. Today the Clarkhurst Ranch estate is home to George Dudley State Park.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_scZKXBXgGyzdRnueJ9WUo5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/79d50e80-c8cc-4714-b7f9-3ec116c6cf3c)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Bret-Great stuff!!! Is it your understanding that Lagerblade’s only new commission was Chippanee? What info do you have on Great Hill in Seymour?
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UPDATED 1934 CONNECTICUT AERIAL LIST
.....
CONNECTICUT FORMER COURSES NLE BY 1934 AERIAL
Alfred Pope Private Estate Course, Farmington, Unknown, 06454 (NLE)
Danbury Golf Club, Danbury, Unknown, 07400 (NLE)
Danielson Golf Club, Danielson, Unknown, 01077 (NLE). FKA-Quinebaug Golf Club
Ethel Walker Golf Course, Simsbury, Unknown, 09529 (NLE)
Indian Neck Golf Course, Branford, Unknown, 05583 (NLE)
A lifelong area resident, I have no knowledge of what is referenced as "Danbury Golf Club"... I am familiar with these CT and many other aerials, and I re-scanned throughout the map zone 07400 and see no evidence of a course.
However, if you look at maps 3950 and 7396, which covers the vertically-orientated Danbury/Bethel boundary line, you will see an 9-hole NLE (almost dead center in 3950) which I knew as Terre Haute Golf Course, and disappeared as the 70s became the 80s, It was closer to an executive course than a true 9-holer, with only 3 "two shot" holes out of 9. Most of its property is now the site of a Clarke Industrial Park whose street address in in Bethel. Perhaps this is the thing that came to be listed as Danbury Golf Club.
20-25 Years ago, there was a burgeoning effort to create a new 18-hole public (o-o or municipal?) encompassing the remaining old Terre Haute parcel and adjacent lands, but public support was lukewarm and its general location nearing a watershed made for ultimate doom.
Other than Terre Haute, the only golf I've known to have existed in Danbury are the Emmet private track, Ridgewood Country Club, and local designer Ed Ryder's municipal Richter Park in 1970. I'd love to hear more, if my understanding is faulty.
[size=78%] [/size]
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Tim,
Thanks. I am not aware of any other courses Herbert Lagerblade designed. I almost get the sense that Chippanee was his club, where he could test out his steel shafts, but I’d like to find more information on the beginning of the club. I wouldn’t be surprised if he built a few holes at Pequabuck, but that is pure speculation.
Great Hill in Seymour was an Al Zikorus design from 1960. I am not sure when it closed.
Vin,
Thank you for the addition of Terre Haute golf course, I had never heard of it before. I will add that to the list. Danbury Golf Club, from what I understand was the predecessor to Ridgewood Country Club. Danbury was likely out of existence by the early 1920’s when Ridgewood opened. The site of the course is where Immaculate High School is today. Danbury was listed on the original list as if it was an active golf course, However, I agree with you that a golf course can not be seen in this frame. I moved this course to a new category. Every course in this category only shows the land where the former course existed. I didn’t completely eliminate it from the list, because I wanted to keep this list consistent with the original.
Bret
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Clinton Country Club-Clinton, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931.
9 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1895.
Clinton Country Club still exists today, but the course shown in this aerial does not. This golf course was the club’s second course. The Clinton Country Club moved to this site in 1921 and used this course until the 1950’s. In the 1950’s the club moved to their third and current site, which is home to an 18-hole Geoffrey Cornish design.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_arQEo9qd3gKqnqBPfXsNgg.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/50a53567-d3ef-45c7-a859-2afb67e3c171)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Cogswell Brook Golf Club-Ellington, CT (NLE)
9 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1933
This course is a new addition to the original list. Sven discovered this course recently and sent over a small amount of information and the aerial below. This course was located in Ellington, close to Rockville and no longer exists.
Hartford Courant., June 23, 1933
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5993.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e9d51083-d6c0-4937-b85d-1e1e5e4f1024)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_swV1XYsjd4HmMbobcgsYPf.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/78af56a3-2bdf-4f84-b15a-b3297ac9c484)
Country Club of Fairfield, Fairfield, CT
18 Holes, 6,588 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Seth Raynor. Established in 1914.
The Country Club of Fairfield was established in 1914, but the golf course wasn’t completed until 1921. This aerial shows the original Seth Raynor design. Several alterations were made to the course by A.W. Tillinghast, Robert Trent Jones and Geoffrey Cornish after 1934.
Routing from a 1928 Scorecard
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nxXr9gcZnkiT1PmaBcDJaL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/90e60f3d-4c20-4872-a33d-317254cadd26)
USGA Museum, Seagle Archives.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_scLACQuUcE1daHsnwQQqoD.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/051dafe1-ed81-4f59-a3e0-44073d55c9b5)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5782.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/70b463e2-baec-4ff8-855e-656e733abb56)
Country Club of Fairfield is featured in one of the “Courses by Country” write-ups. If anyone would like more information or photographs, you can find it here:
https://golfclubatlas.com/courses-by-country/ (https://golfclubatlas.com/courses-by-country/)
Country Club of Farmington, Farmington, CT
18 Holes, 6,300 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Devereux Emmet in 1924. Established in 1896.
Country Club of Farmington dates back to 1896. They recently went through a renovation and aggressive tree clearing program to get it more in line with the 1934 design. Emmet made further recommendations to the club in the 1930’s that were not carried out until after he had passed away. One of his recommendations was to design the 17th hole similar to the 18th hole at Wampanoag and to finish with a Par 3. These plans were eventually carried out by other architects. The holes you see across the Farmington River in the modern aerial belong to Tunxis Country Club, formerly Tunxis Plantation Golf Course.
Story about the Little Red Clock Shop dating back to 1790. This building is still used as the Pro Shop today:
https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1959feb38.pdf (https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/golfd/article/1959feb38.pdf)
Postcard photo of the clubhouse:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_e2fJ3bZfo5dCTxYp21ec6D.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/232b86dc-c336-4522-91a4-76a81a48727a)
Farmington Magazine
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6304.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/63b31b31-289a-4677-b2f1-d30f61ffb5c9)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_135tSs7EYozighWUMzwoDP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/4c49040e-d46e-4888-974c-a0fc82387b95)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6856.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/af6ac5df-2e64-48c2-8e58-ba2c18c31742)
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Bret:
Do you have anything on a Berlin Construction GC located in Berlin, CT? The only mention I've seen of it is in the 1926 AAGC.
Also be interested in any information on Cheshire CC, which was claimed to be the first country club owned and operated by African Americans in the United States.
Sven
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Bret-Great stuff!!! Is it your understanding that Lagerblade’s only new commission was Chippanee? What info do you have on Great Hill in Seymour?
Lagerblade designed and built Conneault Lake CC in PA in 1917, with the course being expanded to 18 later on by Scott Robson.
He also designed Greenville CC in 1917 and Corry CC in 1920, both in PA and worked with Loeffler in 1920 in expanding Highland (aka Bellevue).
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Bret:
Do you have anything on a Berlin Construction GC located in Berlin, CT? The only mention I've seen of it is in the 1926 AAGC.
Also be interested in any information on Cheshire CC, which was claimed to be the first country club owned and operated by African Americans in the United States.
Sven
Sven,
I don’t have anything on Berlin Construction GC. I went to find it in the 1926 AAGG to try to understand the context, but I couldn’t find it. What town was it listed under? I checked most of the other golf guides and couldn’t find it in there either. Berlin is a town in Connecticut, but I have never noticed a listing for it. Shuttle Meadow which is actually in Berlin was always listed as New Britain.
The one Connecticut entry that I question in the 1926 Golf Guide is Colonial Country Club in Greenwich. It’s listed under construction in 1926, 1927 and 1928 and then never mentioned again after that. I’m curious if anyone has ever heard of this club or know of its location?
I have never heard that story about Cheshire Golf Club or Honey Pot Country Club. I don’t really have a lot of information on the course, but I did recently find this local article including some of its history. I’d be interested to learn more.
https://cheshirepedia.org/article/from-honey-pot-country-club-to-cheshire-golf-club-to-condos-part-i-the-1930s-and-40s/ (https://cheshirepedia.org/article/from-honey-pot-country-club-to-cheshire-golf-club-to-condos-part-i-the-1930s-and-40s/)
Bret
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Country Club of New Canaan-New Canaan, CT
9 Holes, 3,000 Yards, Par 37: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Willie Park Jr. Established in 1899.
Country Club of New Canaan dates back to 1899. Willie Park Jr. is credited with this design, but no one seems to know exactly when Willie was here. Park claims this course in one of his later advertisements, but that is about the extent of information we have on this course’s design.
Walter Travis was hired by the club to design a second nine holes in the 1920’s. You can see the cleared corridors from his design in this 1934 aerial. The club ran out of money during clearing putting the project on hold. In the late 1940’s Alfred Tull was hired to extend the course to 18 holes and he followed many of the corridors left behind by Travis. The club has made several modifications to the course over the years leaving few Willie Park originals. The club is currently in the middle of a renovation. Since this modern aerial was taken a new Par 3, 10th hole has been designed by Andrew Green to replace the Par 4 that existed prior. (Lower-right of the modern aerial)
Old Photo of today’s 7th hole-June 27, 1962:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kj3AZLFthvogKGGu1czqfQ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/31d488ca-4a9d-4e8a-8721-cd9c6e513b99)
O.J. Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MsU Turfgrass Information Center.
Alfred Tull is constructing the course his father started building 23 years prior:
Golfdom., July 1946:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4Xsrzeef5CC3ogQEHzqLVm.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/75d9e5cd-0483-4495-838c-722b02ed308f)
Alfred Tull’s new back 9 opened at New Canaan. Reconstructed front 9 to open Labor Day 1947.
Golfdom., August 1947:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qFNetVGrgV1PDjPCanM9D4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d3891be8-7234-4fed-8d6d-b6668f13a317)
1940’s Layout of the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6282.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8a2e6dfc-e883-4713-9907-77fecdb59dcc)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sgstf2RHMwCztVRoDp9xhY.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/ac1f8168-83a5-4d9d-a303-dbe6cecadcf5)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5963.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c2c02ab9-f9a2-437f-8ec4-e23e86dbe3c0)
Country Club of Waterbury, Waterbury, CT
18 Holes, 6,240 Yards, Par 69: 1929 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Donald J. Ross in 1926. Established in 1908.
Ross designed the Country Club of Waterbury course in 1926 and later claimed it to be one of the most difficult pieces of property he had ever worked with. There appears to have been a course on the property prior to the Ross design, but I know very little about the club’s earlier course. Ross mentions pre-existing holes in his field notes, and it look like there are a few old, abandoned corridors on this aerial (in the far-right of the southern portion aerial). From his field notes, it sounds like Ross only had to work around the old course on a few holes with much of his design occupying new land.
Today's course doesn’t look all that different from what you see in 1934. The course has been evolving over the last few decades while staying true to its original design.
I am breaking this course into two aerials to show more detail. I have the aerials rotated so that north is to the left.
1934 Aerial (Northern Portion)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9zbLQ8CJRWwaa4DGgCXa7c.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/86dcd3b8-fbc4-419b-ab4e-30440a2dca33)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 (Southern Portion)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4V9z9w94p37RwQAapX7YRx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0a28d935-e7f6-4c78-9ea2-224631af735d)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial (Full Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kNbzksBMYkYHJR4sh6Ufcx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f9d9920f-e754-44b6-9db3-d45295e9d691)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rfcV1duN9e7EpT859vw6V1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/1a5ce162-04eb-42ed-96ce-e4b6518ca865)
Apple Maps, 2023.
Country Club of Waterbury’s 3rd Hole: (1928, 1951, 2022j
1928 Construction Photo
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3YAJKSDs8CZymP3qYft9Fe.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/10b68d19-50a5-4f2a-8559-5fffa5f85914)
1951 OJ Noer Slides
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9ZiQ4dzRZoWWAFPKN53zVN.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c96864ee-da52-4103-9c51-17b230fbffe5)
2022
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5987.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/dcbd6d14-59b2-4ddf-80b8-3b1d11d14f4d)
More photos from Country Club of Waterbury 1951.
8th Hole (1951)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8AAQQHgTJh8ZUeoFAun9dL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/75752ba0-3ad6-4ea5-94bb-c3bd347b4970)
9th Hole (1951)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mYVMDJ42rno3YkUU1GwoQk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/74d360a3-ff34-4014-bc00-61bc4b0f9081)
11th Green (1951)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_1rJKYbZZCwcdoJoHBiHgVd.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/30f17d7e-8d5b-4515-a953-e83cb1614fd0)
All photos above from: Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Libraries Turfgrass Information Center.
Cumming Park Golf Course-Stamford, CT (NLE)
9 Holes, 2,100 Yards, Par 34: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1922.
This is a new addition to the original list. Cummings Park was listed in a few of the old golf guides. This course was also listed on Ralph Kennedy’s list of over 3,000 courses he had played. The land today is still referred to as Cummings Park, but the course no longer exists. It’s hard to make out an entire course on the aerial, but you can certainly spot a few holes.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_et9gE4cpgA1W6XnG68DTtr.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d9bfb5aa-601e-4111-844d-d59c711662c4)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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D. Fairchild Wheeler Golf Course-Fairfield, CT
36 Holes. Black and Red Courses
Designed by Robert White. Established in 1934
This aerial shows the Black Course just about fully grown in while the Red Course is still under construction. Beardsley Park Golf Course which was the only municipal golf course in Bridgeport prior to the construction of this course, closed shortly after D. Fairchild Wheeler opened.
1934 Aerial showing the completed 18-hole Black course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7QR3iZDoFdyzQvT8yKqNWF.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d5501116-e7d1-4c54-8b52-1d0e9c48979c)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial (Both Courses)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ti17niKPjCuLf4LmobL1ZA.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/135e6204-d011-4117-9fd4-01d0731d77e6)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5787.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5570a2c8-1bf2-4c85-ac8e-a6cf2569b4da)
An old postcard picture of the clubhouse:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_vohmwKJ6ky9VkkDag4scTk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/79b33253-5b96-44c1-b311-63c240bec7e0)
refriedjeanspostcards.com
The Bridgeport Municipal Golf Course was a brief Olmsted Associates project. The Olmsted Bros. suggested Wayne Stiles as golf architect. Stiles even made a site visit. There are several pages in the Archives dedicated to Stiles. About half-way through the letters D. Fairchild Wheeler asks the Olmsted Bros. if they could use Robert White as golf architect. A few of the members of the golf committee were familiar with White from his consultation work at Brooklawn. The letters also mention Walter Hatch and Donald Ross. The collection includes 22 pages of letters, most of them short. It's an interesting look into the start of D. Fairchild Wheeler, and their golf architect selection:
Olmsted Associates Records: Job Files, 1863-1971; Files; 694; Public golf course; Bridgeport, Conn., 1930 | Library of Congress (loc.gov) (https://www.loc.gov/item/mss5257100718/)
East Hartford Golf Club-East Hartford, CT. FKA Long Hill Country Club, East Hartford Country Club
9 Holes.
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1930.
This aerial shows Orrin Smith’s original nine-hole design. Al Zikorus later added 9 holes to make up today’s 18-hole course.
9-hole plan for the course from 1929. (The aerials below are rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5933.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/710b6266-8d09-43bc-a9a0-8d92182589ed)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gYKrVy6XNvFSuwMMoHMgbh.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/dba2dfb2-5b78-4ed0-805b-78f610682ac5)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5786.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/03ab9078-dd5d-45e0-8d44-ea3b4be0f9b0)
A brief description of the progress while East Hartford was under construction.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5944.JPG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/78bb922b-a1ba-4278-835f-df2d358e8f89)
East Mountain Golf Course-Waterbury, CT. FKA-Waterbury Municipal Golf Course.
9 Holes.
Designed by Wayne Stiles & John Van Kleek. Established in 1934.
The Waterbury Municipal Golf Course opened with 9 holes right around the time this aerial was taken. The first nine holes were designed while Stiles & Van Kleek were still partners. The construction plan for the first nine holes bears both of their names. The construction plan for the second nine holes only lists Wayne Stiles solo. This info comes from The Life and Work of Wayne Stiles by Bob Labbance and Kevin Mendik. The second nine was completed in 1934-1935. The stone clubhouse was also designed by Wayne Stiles and is currently undergoing a restoration.
Cornish and Whitten suggest the Gordon’s worked on the course around 1960, when they built Western Hills in Waterbury. Stephen Kay worked on the course in the early 2000’s and made a few changes to the original design out of necessity. He swapped the par on today's 2nd and 16th holes creating a new green on 2 but preserving the original on 16. I think the 2nd green is the only green that isn’t original. The greens are certainly the highlight of the course. This has been the course I’ve called home the last four years.
The holes shown in this aerial do not belong to any one nine today. If you ran the sequence of today's holes in relation to the 1934 aerial, you would play todays: 10th, 11th, 15th, 16th, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 18th.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mxRYgZueWguCxw2VTy2Ed5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c85119d4-4076-4cac-8910-34bbb89f679f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5902.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/2e0250da-57f3-44dd-9d5b-5cbbe17bcca1)
18th green and clubhouse at East Mountain (Waterbury Municipal) Golf Course. August 28, 1941. This bunker on the left no longer exists.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5975.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/394bddc6-368f-45d1-a46f-8d4257aa5e59)
Noer/Milorganite Images. MSU Turfgrass Information Center.
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Bret:
Berlin -
In the 1926 Annual Guide there's a section after the main course listing for courses the guide is seeking more information on, which is where you can find Berlin listed.
Colonial -
This is the only information I have on Colonial. I have not seen anything confirming the course was actually built or opened.
April 15, 1924 -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Colonial_-_Hartford_Courant_April_15_1924.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Colonial_-_Hartford_Courant_April_15_1924.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Cheshire -
The story of the original Cheshire CC is best summed up here -
http://waterburythoughts.blogspot.com/2014/01/cheshire-country-club.html
Here's the 1934 aerial of my guess of the location of the club, as well as an early article noting a 5 hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Cheshire_CC_Aerial_-_1934.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Cheshire_CC_Aerial_-_1934.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Dec. 14, 1919 Detroit Free Press -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Cheshire_-_Detroit_Free_Press_Dec._14_1919.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Cheshire_-_Detroit_Free_Press_Dec._14_1919.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Honey Pot -
Honey Pot, named for a famous trout stream, confusingly, would later be known as Cheshire CC. It was built a bit east of the location of the Cheshire CC noted above. Although the club had plans for 18 holes, only 9 were opened in 1930.
Nov. 21, 1929 Meriden Daily Journal -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Honey_Pot_-_Meriden_Daily_Journal_Nov._21_1929.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Honey_Pot_-_Meriden_Daily_Journal_Nov._21_1929.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
June 20, 1930 The Journal -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Honey_Pot_-_The_Journal_June_20_1930.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Honey_Pot_-_The_Journal_June_20_1930.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Honey_Pot_Aerial_-_1934.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Honey_Pot_Aerial_-_1934.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
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Sven,
Thank you for clarifying this information, I didn’t realize you were talking about two different golf courses/clubs. Now I understand and I apologize for the confusion Thank you for including the information on Cheshire Country Club. I’ve never heard of it until now and I am curious to learn more about it.
Do you think there are still golf holes in this 1934 aerial? I am having trouble determining if a few courses are very rudimentary and seasonal (where they might hay the course in May) vs. Are they already gone?
I cannot find anything on the Berlin Construction Club in the Hartford Courant after a few quick searches. I also can’t find any mentions of the pro E. J. Patience.
Bret
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Edgewood Golf Club, Cromwell, CT. (NLE) FKA Middletown Golf Club.
Current site of TPC at River Highlands.
18 Holes. 6,461 yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert J. Ross/Maurice Kearney. Established in 1927.
Today, this is the site of TPC at River Highlands. The former club, Edgewood Golf Club was originally known as Middletown Golf Club, opening in 1928 and changing names in 1934. The course you see in the aerial was designed by Robert J. Ross and Maurice Kearney. The golf course was constructed by Orrin Smith and no longer exists in this form.
Early story on Middletown Golf Club, later called Edgewood Gol Club.
The Hartford Courant., April 29, 1928:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_okdSkHb8ZtPEQyQBpUNmGL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/9d710568-c959-43b5-adb7-6520ba99dd7e)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ncJryBXa9GJF7b348Mq5EH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c1f64717-638e-48df-9f00-09903a9132e2)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial-TPC at River Highlands
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5788.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/bfbd1f7e-78ba-4ffe-91a3-66c4cd697b9d)
E. Gaynor Brennan Golf Course-Stamford, CT. FKA-Hubbard Heights Golf Club
18 Holes, 6,113 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Maurice McCarthy. Established in 1922.
This course was listed incorrectly on the original list. The slide for this course should be 04121. This course was originally called Hubbard Heights Golf Club and today operates as a municipal golf course in the City of Stamford.
Old postcard photo of the golf xourse:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nW5WuUZWDCiubcwRp7Ybp6.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/802d3c57-72cb-423f-b21d-8dc5468cdd46)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5S2tC1u5ZkWfcxz1SYRY6o.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/16fa2e53-4312-42b7-8203-7dfabc5e60e3)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5789.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/663f2476-16e1-43a7-a82e-d8037d7a559e)
Enfield Golf Club-Enfield, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931.
Designed by: Unknown. Established: Unknown.
I have very little information on this course.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wcX8r9kKZFFntHYXY3NC82.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e259702f-8d76-4ac8-875a-093904b9544b)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Farmingbury Hills Golf Course-Wolcott, CT. FKA Mattatuck Golf Club,
Chase Country Club
9 Holes, 3,000 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1924.
Mattatuck Golf Club was 1931 US Open winner, Billy Burke’s first job as a pro. At the time he took the job, he was known as William Burkowski. This course is still very much intact. One or two additional greens have been added for variety when playing 18, but the original routing is the same. It’s one of the few courses in CT you can still hit your tee shot across a main road. (Shennecossett being another)
An article from 1924 announcing William Burkowski as pro and Robert Pryde as supervising the development of the golf course. This article was sent to me from Anthony Pioppi.
Waterbury American., July 21, 1924:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iPmk1HUi1rRxqgZCJMh3fh.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/97c4664b-8320-40eb-98f9-1d66b0c8e71a)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9GLLv4LWYf8Ygjyj2fen6m.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/539eb2c1-fc67-47a4-9a87-74d5af264c65)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5796.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/fe82bd90-5161-4276-82d1-b37990049dde)
Fenwick Golf Course-Old Saybrook, CT
9 Holes, 2,585 Yards, Par 34: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1896.
Fenwick is one of the oldest golf courses in the state, playing golf on the property as early as 1894. The routing you see in the 1934 aerial looks the same as what we play today, but the bunkers and many of the greens look like they may have been updated after the 1938 Hurricane. The course claims that the 6th green is from the original course in the 1890’s and is the oldest green in the state in continuous use.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_aW5WJqeieQQUDaMJsKT6mU.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/06207eb9-ecf3-43fd-af11-2fcdd93a5db1)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5797.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d8e5fafb-7d48-4f32-900a-93e5a987fa71)
Glastonbury Public Golf Course-Glastonbury, CT (NLE). FKA Williams Memorial Golf Course
No listing in 1930-1931
Designed by: Unknown. Established in: Unknown.
This is a new addition to the original list. This course was discovered recently from the list of golf courses Ralph Kennedy played. Very little additional information has been found for this course. This course no longer exists.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fFem3vyHZy5gfwh8cmiRWD.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/1d5e4773-9b0c-495c-986e-043e9cda2378)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
This postcard from Cardcow.com helped me determine the location.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_joApGeF5aykMKhm1xdQRS1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1d1e0928-b0c7-4a63-ad9b-727819ab09b7)
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Bret:
Glastonbury Public GC was previously known as Williams Memorial GC, the earliest mention of which I've found comes from 1927.
In the 1938 Guide there's a listing for Glastonbury CC, which is probably the same course. No information is provided.
Sven
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Clarkhurst Ranch - This was on the old estate of George, Henry and Thomas Clark, which was known as "Clarkhurst." The estate is now part of the George Dudley Seymour State Park. The course appears to have been built in the very late 1920's and had 9 holes.
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Vin,
Thank you for the addition of Terre Haute golf course, I had never heard of it before...
Bret
Hi Bret...poking around I found this local Bethel website with as full a picture of doings at Terre Haute as anyone can hope for...hole pictures and everything...
https://www.bethelgrapevine.com/articles/terre-haute-golf-course-
seems it was developed as an owner-constructed estate course, and ultimately opened to the public in the early 60s...where it had a 20-25 year life, coming to a final curtain in 1985, when long-sought approvals for the industrial park came through.
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Sven,
Thank you for the information on Glastonbury and Clarkhurst Ranch.
Vin,
Thank you for attaching the link on Terre Haute. This is a great find. What an interesting story. Gotta love the shot tracer course tour!
Thanks to both of you for the additions, I am learning a lot.
Bret
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Golf Club of Avon-Avon, CT. FKA Avon Country Club
9 Holes, 3,400 Yards, Par 33:1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert J. Ross. Established in 1925.
Golf Club of Avon lists 9 holes in 1930, but it looks closer to 18 holes by 1934. Tillinghast made a PGA site visit shortly after this aerial and discussed finishing up the course with the local architect Mr. Dodge. I’m not sure who did exactly what and when, but the original 9 holes is credited to Robert J. Ross. Today’s course is a Geoffrey Cornish design that utilizes some of the original holes you see in 1934. Cornish also added a new nine-hole course bringing the total to 27 holes today.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sKfsCKSRd8vXo32DDB1huR.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/dca34758-d696-48ba-a09d-ca7b0a313cca)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5798.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/ff0c6eba-9773-4687-9bf5-3b4e48845ee8)
Goodwin Park Municipal Golf Course-Hartford, CT
18 Holes, 5,250 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Harry Jackson in 1906 (original 9). Robert J. Ross 1917.
Established in 1906.
Account of the first golf course at Goodwin Park in 1906:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_tjZ3ro4qRz7hgen8VuYzN2.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/af644f05-b61f-4c95-b1cf-5221133c8cd7)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rtvuqGjvSUHqaXvMpXo4M5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b39ad751-91c5-43a5-a8e6-fd302e48c544)
An early photograph of Robert Jack Ross (2nd from left):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qHp7WRfCXYVEETHzo9N7Sy.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/785419bc-95bd-4dbb-b1ce-ce894e3f644e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_2N4nimFhn24KSckLHX8qRW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c0b3db3e-8165-4a09-98e7-913f1f296aa3)
Goodwin Park was the first municipal golf course in Connecticut. The first nine was designed by Harry Jackson in 1906. Robert J. Ross designed the second nine in 1917 with Robert D. Pryde consulting and Everett Pyle in charge of construction.
In 1934, Robert J. Ross added the course known today as the Short Course making Goodwin a 27-hole facility. In 1937, Ross redesigned the original 18-hole course using new land the club didn’t own previously. Today’s design is mostly the routing of Robert J. Ross, with a few alterations over the years.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rPatNYhFmksuZLQs6j7JTR.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/57baf21d-07cc-4aa4-872a-1f2c29ecebc4)
In 1937, the 18-hole golf course redesigned by Robert J. Ross opens:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_cNcuuyibmWMZfRFGGh6Nfb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ab69f42a-fc41-44d0-992d-7a4579aa2603)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rwMSqMmAEny4we8cgZrsxP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/54c87d00-d432-4567-8e01-758214819d41)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_i5ajMoTu71a5BnMNxtzKrj.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/76a0005a-a7c3-4bbf-b6bb-a63122f42570)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wuoK1M75szvbJfoNnDQLxR.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e5da37bd-bc4d-4780-8c6e-ba8a172cf793)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5799.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0db20c93-9124-4563-87af-24ed7ba3109b)
Goose Run Golf Course (Military), Groton, CT
9 Holes, 2,491, Par 34: Modern Scorecard
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1927
This golf course is a new addition to the original list. The course is located on the naval submarine base in Groton, but I know very little about it’s history. The course appears to be very similar today to what you see in the 1934 aerial.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bcpt2MXafPFnNJ38vvyQCY.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/989e3397-44c9-4efa-9433-464da6615fc5)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5800.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/45c3bdf6-e6c5-4cde-b709-fdfd6da0c348)
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Great Neck Country Club-Waterford, CT. FKA New London Country Club
9 Holes, 2,950 Yards, Par 35:1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Charles Brooks. Established in 1925.
I have very little information on Great Neck Country Club. The club was formerly known as New London Country Club, changing their name in the early 2000's. I believe Charles or Charlie Brooks became the pro at New London CC after he built the golf course, but I don't have any more information on Mr. Brooks.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jB3mhBniLCUQXzJjHUTRKa.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d6ab0765-7fc0-4380-a241-f5ad927849ad)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5801.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/bf7767af-e7b2-4527-9767-26a62d8dfb0b)
Greenfield Hill Country Club-Fairfield, CT NLE
No listing in 1930-1931. 18 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1901.
Greenfield Hill Country Club is a new addition to the original list. I don’t have a lot of historical information on the golf course. The Country Club dates back to 1901, starting as an agricultural club. The club would host an Annual Country Club Fair for the first several years of their existence. I’m not sure when golf was started at the club, but there are stories about Julius Boros growing up on a farm next door to Greenfield Hill Country Club. He tells a story of how he would jump the fence when he was a boy and play as many holes as he could before the greenkeeper chased him off the course. Boros began to caddie at the club when he was eleven years old. This course went out of existence before the 1949 aerial. By 1960, houses were starting to fill the land.
Old postcard photo of the clubhouse:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6739.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/445232cd-3dff-424e-9a8c-bc7d430f930e)
A great Sports Illustrated story about Julius Boros, written in 1968. It’s a lengthy story, but full of interesting information. The Greenfield Hill Country Club is briefly mentioned in the story.
https://vault.si.com/vault/1968/03/25/golfs-old-man-river (https://vault.si.com/vault/1968/03/25/golfs-old-man-river)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3vsF9yUkoekrgWFgLue3Kh.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/374580a1-eb40-4478-b010-c51673c21ab0)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Greenwich Country Club-Greenwich, CT. FKA Fairfield County Golf Club
18 Holes, 6521 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Lawrence Van Etten. Revisions by Barker, Macdonald/Raynor, White
Established in 1894.
Greenwich Country Club is understood to be the oldest golf club in Connecticut. The design history is very confusing, with many architects being engaged by the club, not just before this 1934 aerial, but after as well. The club believes Lawrence Van Etten laid out their 1908 course which includes the bulk of the routing you see in 1934. Sven recently posted an article about Barker visiting the club in 1911 to work on bunkers. Macdonald and Raynor were engaged by the club around 1916 to re-bunker the course and get it into a position where it could make a bid for the Women’s National Championship. Robert White, turf consultant for the club in the 1920’s, designed two new holes on new ground. (The two holes at the bottom right of the aerial below). Further changes were made to the routing after 1934.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ubW6wEKXFQiGbnTbeqMB14.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f49e6481-03d1-4230-b1b6-3628bcf4f386)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5802.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/45ff1416-41b0-48bf-a5f1-7e25c95d27a5)
Here are two routings of the course from 1908 and 1915, showing how little the course had changed in that time. The 6th hole was added by 1915, and the original 17th hole, which they called “The Alps” was removed, but the routing remained very similar to the 1908 layout. If you look at the 17th hole on the 1908 map you can imagine how crazy of a hole this must have been. You were basically playing the 10th hole (you see below) backwards and then you had about 400 yards to go after you got to the top of the ridge. It’s easy to see why this hole didn’t last very long.
1908 Layout
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ppaBPsHA2zJJSv6AvjpzHw.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4db213d9-fa43-4243-b544-32e33cd69f98)
1915 Layout
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_11CExz6cXn3jtuDN2z6w6e.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/7bd40d40-f38c-442e-87e6-35ccd7c0f64d)
Here are a few before and after pictures.
Today's 2nd hole:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nWzADGm9juahGgxntRovP8.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0ae50b06-5865-4a5c-b787-70a5b0c9797c)
Today's 2nd hole after bunker work:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5970.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c3ae545c-866e-4458-b635-508d3c12bf7a)
The original 10th hole, which no longer exists:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3zQ9jo1na4cMvkVwBdd8Gx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b2c16b61-623e-4cd2-83e1-1632fd563074)
The 10th hole after bunker work:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7ujpocAVCEkuFXVr582dmu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/5a214318-62f3-448f-9397-5cde52aebd02)
Grassy Hill Country Club-Orange, CT. FKA Wepawaug C.C., Orange C.C.
9 Holes, 3,816 Yards, Par 39: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
9 Holes, 3,867 Yards, Par 37: 1929 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1927.
Grassy Hill Country Club was originally called Wepawaug Country Club and consisted of by far the longest 9-hole course in Connecticut at the time. I listed two different American Annual Golf Guide listings to show that the numbers they reported were not a typo. This course had at least three Par 5’s or Par 6’s close to 600 yards. Grassy Hill today is 18 holes and contains a few of these holes from the original routing. I think todays 1st, 5th, 6th and 17th holes are original. Today’s 5th hole measures 600 yards. The remaining long holes were broken into two. The 3rd hole, 7th green and 18th holes were built in the late 1930’s to make a 13-hole course at the time. Eventually, the club bought more land across the street and Al Zikorus designed 6 new holes, dropping one hole from the original side.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_2jAjZAx6YyJreQCZGVf4Jm.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b1f45096-7e19-4505-ac23-9f9f26f886db)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial (Showing Northern 12 Holes)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5903.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/370dd4a8-c144-487d-adae-a5a3ce99b4ea)
Modern Aerial (Full Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5904.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a1089a9d-5e88-459e-a593-89a914f9f4cd)
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Green Woods Country Club-Winsted, CT
9 Holes, 2,162 Yards, Par 32: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1902.
Green Woods Country Club was established in 1902 very close to the Torrington/Winchester town line. The original architect is unknown. Revisions appear to be made quite often in the early days. The course we see in 1934 is only a portion of the property owned by the club today. Further revisions were made between 1934-1951, with that architect also being unknown. The course certainly has a Golden Age feel on a few holes with a variety of interesting greens. The holes that appear more modern, were designed or renovated by Al Zikorus in the 1980’s. Zikorus added a new 1st hole, which has since been abandoned for a driving range. The green for that hole remains and was used to extend the length of the original first hole. From the angle you play today the 1st green slopes away hard from the fairway. Zikorus also added an alternate Par 5 fairway and green to the club’s 5th hole to add variety to an 18-hole round. I used to play in a golf league here and always enjoyed the greens and the friendly people.
Today’s course includes some of the greens pictured in this 1934 aerial. The two greens piggy-backed over the entry road include todays 9th green (bottom) and todays practice green/1st tee (top). Today’s alternate 1st green (for when it’s too wet), 2nd, 3rd, 8th and 9th greens are still in place. Today’s bunkerless 6th green is one my favorite complexes, and that was built between 1934-1951.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uAMuFTdnu7NUS3QmaY9vGd.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/62dd4fc1-8f47-4af1-931e-7e7ac5abfcee)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5842.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a5a5e5dc-f748-4c5f-b2d8-fff1f6740a9c)
Modern Layout. The first hole is above the driving range, the fourth hole is right of the driving range.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5976.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/087f0a7f-5c2c-4b31-a080-5711bfa476ec)
Guilford Lakes Golf Course-Guilford, CT
9 Holes, 1,395 Yards, Par 27: Modern Scorecard
Designed by Gardner Wheeler in 1930, Karl Schmidt (1928). Established in 1928.
This course is a new addition to the original list. This course which started with a 2-hole course was expanded to nine holes in the Summer of 1930 by an engineering student named Gardner Wheeler. He was 16 years old at the time he designed the course. This course still exists and it is one of the best maintained 9-hole Par 3 courses I have ever played. The course was rebuilt or renovated by Al and Michael Zikorus in the 1990’s. The routing looks very similar today to Gardner Wheeler’s original layout with a few modifications and modern greens.
Here is more information on Gardner Wheeler and Guilford Lakes.
https://www.cthickorygolf.org/the-courses/courses-by-architect/gardner-wheeler (https://www.cthickorygolf.org/the-courses/courses-by-architect/gardner-wheeler)
The story above leads us to this 1999 New York Times article:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uNwvSuM6eKDbEBRyyjGrFu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1848a39c-cf5c-4286-8581-ee2eab798ad7)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wYgfWqep9Vc4EeAydKA9MP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d77c4bd0-39a8-49b1-9fc5-5f86b63e160b)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_eqYvzUtyXYuUy5j7rWg8Gp.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b97e813e-c71d-4923-90db-0904432f9779)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5848.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/12878864-85be-43aa-ad2f-9d2e342904e6)
Harkness Estate Private Course-Waterford, CT NLE. AKA-Eolia
9 Holes, 2,664 Yards, Par 35: 1936 Scorecard
Designed by: Unknown. Established in: Unknown
This course was on the private estate of Edward S. Harkness. Wayne Stiles had worked on the property at some point as a landscape architect, so there is an inkling that he designed the golf course. However, we don’t have any hard evidence to back it up, which leads us to unknown designer. There were revisions made to the course after 1934. The routing was changed and more bunkers were added. This course was discussed on Page 3, replies 73 and 74 for more information on the course.
1976 aeticle/interview with a former employee of the estate:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3rp8KZRF62nK8fzBxNo1jG.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6395438b-6916-4df9-a842-5f795bf00eba)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rEXZ13szV1Mu9kwoUgkuv9.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fb52dca0-5d99-4f5f-a872-72062c21e2ec)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uR5DsxrsbMD17qFB246voH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/73c0adef-bb4c-4154-9804-ef360cc22dca)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial (Showing Harkness Memorial State Park)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5973.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0773456c-42b3-43fa-8e4a-fbd6f14a5a17)
A few pictures from Harkness Memorial State Park, showing the old estate and land the golf course occupied. This would have been looking back down the 1st hole, from near the first green.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2228.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/923aee4c-f8d9-46f1-9a23-08e4a18975d8)
This is the view on the 4th hole (1934 routing), where you would play out to the point.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2232.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8151750b-5d8c-4ba8-b642-925009135b1b)
The corridor for the 5th hole.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2243.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8c726f92-e532-4761-8055-ed367ce4e66b)
Looking back down the 5th hole, over one of the two bunkers scars that remain on the property.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2246.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/5db34eab-7f19-4f87-8718-8ae91785f6e1)
The beach section near the Par 3, 6th hole.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2251.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d8ed3946-d45e-4c30-aed5-0dadd8359c05)
The second remaining bunker from the 7th hole.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2272.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/44cf349f-3782-4526-a962-492c35f83eac)
The view of the estate as you walk up the 9th hole.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2279.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c3ddef99-38ec-47b7-bac9-faf32b5a5aef)
Looking back down the 9th hole to the point.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_2281.HEIC) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/494caf9d-d23c-4222-8e1e-0f11a82fe957)
Scorecard Cover-Recreated by Scott Ritter, New London Day., November 07, 2021
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8SoB7HubhLonwmPM8JXv3M.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b7d3d597-4c00-4104-8af2-4ad3d6c0068a)
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Goose Run is an interesting case. Everything I've read notes the course opened in 1951, but its clearly there in that 1934 aerial.
I wonder if the Naval Submarine Base, on which the course currently sits, was expanded at some point around WWII and took over the land on which the course sat.
Sven
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Cogswell Brook Golf Club-Ellington, CT (NLE)
9 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1933.
This is a new addition to the original list. Sven discovered this course yesterday. He sent along this small piece of information and the aerial below. This course was located in Ellington, close to Rockville and no longer exists.
Hartford Courant., June 23, 1933
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5993.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e9d51083-d6c0-4937-b85d-1e1e5e4f1024)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_swV1XYsjd4HmMbobcgsYPf.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/78af56a3-2bdf-4f84-b15a-b3297ac9c484)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Harrisville Golf Course-Woodstock, CT.
No listing in 1930-1931.
9 Holes, 1,908 Yards, Par 30: 1960 article below
Designed by John Salvas. Established in 1927.
Harrisville was started and run by the Salvas family. Aimee Salvas has been noted as the architect in a few publications and the original list, but this story from 1960 claims John Salvas laid out the course around 1927. This story was sent to me from Anthony Pioppi.
Hartford Courant., September 18, 1960
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jVzvGNzePnUHs3tnrHHEtk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/748a69fa-0572-48f0-a016-e66e1cc32ef6)
As the story states, the course was extended around 1960. Today, the course occupies a larger footprint than the 1934 course.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iyQ1Jg3EjUjnwsvzs4zEV6.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3638376f-a40c-4a25-9cac-0a67e483ab36)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5988.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/090a8d71-1339-4294-adb1-a09cff5afd68)
Hartford Golf Club-West Hartford, CT
27 Holes: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
18 Holes, 6,490 Yards, Par 71
9 Holes, 2,130 Yards, Par 32
Designed by Devereux Emmet in 1921, Alfred Williams (1915). Established in 1896.
Hartford Golf Club is one of the oldest clubs in the state, dating back to 1896. The club moved around in the early days eventually settling on a site between Asylum Avenue and Albany Avenue in West Hartford. As the years passed the club gradually worked their way north, acquiring more land across Albany Avenue. The golf course first crossed Albany Avenue in 1916, and the design of these 1915-1916 holes (which still exist in some form) had always been credited to Donald Ross. However, several articles from 1915 and 1916 claim the design and construction of the new holes, north of Albany Avenue were the work of Alfred Williams.
More information on Alfred Williams can be found here with some information on his remaining holes at Hartford.
https://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,64126.0.html (https://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,64126.0.html)
Alfred Williams had studied under Peter Lees at Mid-Surrey in England before coming to Hartford. He spent time at Garden City and would later construct several courses for Willie Park, Herbert Strong and at least one other design of his own, Maplewood Country Club in New Jersey. In the late teens and early 1920’s Williams advertised Hartford along with a few Strong and Park courses he constructed.
I haven’t completely ruled out this could be a Donald Ross design that was built by Williams, but I have yet to see evidence that suggests this was the case. Donald Ross did visit the club in 1917 and perhaps earlier, but the 1917 visit was just to assess whether they should buy the land Emmet eventually designed his course on. In 1921, Devereux Emmet put together a plan that includes 32 holes. He had offered two options for today’s 3rd Hole with a Par 4 and a Par 3. He also designed four holes in the northwest corner as a proposal for how to start and end the golf course, once the clubhouse is moved. As you can see in the 1934 aerial, the clubhouse had not been moved by 1934 and these four holes in the northwest corner were never constructed to Emmet’s plan. It is interesting that Emmet’s first, second and eighteenth holes aren’t all that different from what exists today under Ross’ plan.
In 1946 Donald Ross put together a 27-hole plan for the Hartford Golf Club. The club was ready to abandon the land south of Albany Avenue and move the entire course north. Ross put together a plan that would accommodate the new clubhouse location and he would add a new nine-hole course to the north of the new clubhouse. Ross incorporated many of the Emmet and Williams holes into his 18-hole design, while adding today’s first, second, seventeenth and eighteenth holes while making modifications to a few pre-existing holes. The additional 9-hole course designed by Ross was constructed in 1956. The Hartford pro at the time was Sidney Covington, who had designed and built nine holes at Wethersfield Country Club in the 1920’s.
There have been many architects to come through in the years since, so I will just say: what’s left is a little complicated. I have included several routing maps through the years and various aerial photographs to help determine which section of land you’re looking at. One interesting connection I found while looking into Hartford relates to the Club’s first Captain in 1896, named John Carolus Stirling. John Carolus Stirling had recently moved from Chicago in 1896 and helped get the Hartford club started. Stirling was formerly a founding member and the first President of the Chicago Golf Club.
1901 Layout
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_zps3592165e.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ffa4ca40-b536-41ce-805f-90eece6db68f)
1910 Alexander Findlay Layout
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender2_zpsf36e1199.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e32ebf86-5ade-45af-8471-3317dfa18500)
1915 Alfred Williams Layout
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/0EEB96D8-EDAB-43EF-868D-2E03AB6E8EBB_zpszryuvbta.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f1b565b0-e42d-4317-8faf-7f3c361fe853)
1916 Alfred Williams Layout
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/61F506D0-BB21-4703-8C99-A7130692563E_zpszkuujmwy.png) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8e223e3f-be74-4411-88f6-7f845239373b)
1921 Devereux Emmet Layout
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5Pjgm1fSMUV7sn3RyoGuKn.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0589383f-1e72-4e47-a5c3-13f48d7200ce)
1934 Aerial showing portion north of Albany Avenue. Site of today’s 18-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dJcUTeBzQBxLDWKu78ZpFU.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/cfc72213-5485-479c-880e-af7719423fa7)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing portion south of Albany Avenue. These holes no longer exist.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6SVA6wchpi11369S52Ng3b.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/69b6595e-e9b3-438e-93c4-ec5ec67b3b04)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial of 27-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_j5i5mtZWZMZeTfAd7XsF8C.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b1159965-78b6-4d38-a724-6da69d54ced5)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing today’s 18-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5806.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f0002704-6e14-430d-a65e-2f75a2a21e43)
1946 Donald Ross 27-Hole Layout:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fFqbT9xecmQnxxaPjAhU4a.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ef073ef7-2aa9-423e-a90d-9cd9d2d2ef08)
Modern Aerial showing todays 27-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5807.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/4b47fdad-04aa-4624-a998-42f4b191d0d0)
Highland Country Club-Middletown, CT (NLE)
18 Holes, 6,010 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1910.
Highland Country Club was founded in 1910 and designed by Robert Pryde. This course has been discussed on here before, so I will redirect you to a prior thread for more information. The thread starts by discussing the Highland Country Club, but gradually turns into a thread on Robert Pryde. I will include a routing map from 1914 for reference. This course no longer exists.
Old thread on Highland Country Club:
https://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,50804.msg1157637.html#msg1157637 (https://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,50804.msg1157637.html#msg1157637)
Postcard Photo of the clubhouse:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6C3f7y6MXhXNeEqFnaQTbP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fd84746c-1d34-4d22-a66b-5b83a2ab5c65)
Story from Middletown Press 2018:
https://www.middletownpress.com/middletown/article/Lost-links-to-golf-courses-unearthed-in-Westfield-12714551.php (https://www.middletownpress.com/middletown/article/Lost-links-to-golf-courses-unearthed-in-Westfield-12714551.php)
1914 Routing with 1934 Aerial below:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6048.JPG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/79b6903b-f019-4cc5-bb45-26aa053fd0f6)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Tony:
Old Oaks in Purchase, NY was designed by Tillinghast. It was originally a 27 hole layout , but 9 holes were claimed by I-684. I can't seem to be able to manipulate the search function, but it would be neat if we could move just a little west to see if we could peer in on the lost nine.
On breaks from clubhouse jobs and waiting for loops, I actually learned to play on the "lost nine" at Old Oaks, which was called the West Course when I first traipsed around there in 1981-82. While 684 did bring its technical demise almost sixty years ago, the bones of its first four holes are still faintly visible in Old Oaks' northern boundary lands, straddling its service road... a fallow 15-20 acres which only sees dotted employee and caddie parking now. In my youth, those faint bones were much more telling (albeit some 20 years after its demise) with bunker scoops, green mounding and tee lines still in visible relief...a weather-battered gray flag still stood. speared into the ground on two of those first four holes. Now, though the hill and dale expanse is still the same, I might be the last one to see and identify those bones.
What 684 blew up is/was this West Course's 5th, 6th and 7th holes. The lost West Course used to go out and back for four holes in the above-described parcel before its 5th hole headed west and descended to a green sitting in what is the wee angle of land between 684, the 13th tee of Brae Burn CC, and the 8th green and maintenance yard of Century. There too, the faintest visible bones of this 5th green were discernible up until about 15-20 years ago, but now I alone retain the recognition.
The 6th, a ENE returning one shot hole and the 7th which took golfers back up hill to the southwest corner of the clubhouse, were entirely obliterated by the I-684 project.... The 8th hole ran along the southern border of the property through today's outer tennis courts into the top of today's range... the concluding 9th was a short two shot affair traveling back toward the clubhouse. *** This was/is one of the unique features of this course, an unclosed loop... the first tee was 250+ yards north of the clubhouse, but its return was quite near the locker room, and a further 150 -- total of maybe 400 yards -- from that first tee.
And if the CT aerials can't be toggled to capture, then check out the 1925-26 Westchester aerials or some of their further captures (1940, 47, 54, 60 etc)
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Vin,
Thanks for the detailed information on Old Oaks.
Sven,
That’s a good point about Goose Run. I am not sure about the course’s history or the Submarine base’s history. I will have to look further into that course.
I noticed when I loaded the Cogswell Brook Golf Club yesterday that we had that aerial identified as Shenipset in Rockville/Ellington. I am starting to wonder if Shenipset was still around in 1934? I found another mention of Cogswell Brook in 1936 which mentions they were located on West street in Ellington. I think you have identified the correct course, but I don’t know if Shenipset was at a different location or if this Cogswell Brook course was formerly known as Shenipset?
Bret
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Highland Golf Club-Shelton, CT
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by Frank H. Gates. Established in 1900.
Highland Golf Club dates back to 1900. The club credits Frank H. Gates with the design of their golf course. I have very little information on Gates, and I don’t know when Gates designed the golf course. I have seen his name associated with the Central Golf Association of Connecticut, but that is about all I have on him. Highland Golf Club has a plaque honoring Frank H. Gates for his financial and moral support. The plaque also includes the years Gates served as President of the club in the late 20’s to early 30’s.
This course has been altered somewhat from 1934. Several holes have been added, rearranged or lengthened while a few original holes and greens have been retained.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_n5aVvwC3dGy8oJU8ojPCKq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c87eec20-3e3f-4e3d-8874-f8fd271dca7f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5808.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0df6251a-4e33-4f87-ba22-4d91c3ef2db9)
Hob Nob Hill Golf Course-Salisbury, CT (NLE) AKA-I. Kent Fulton Private Estate
18 Holes.
Designed by Devereux Emmet. Established in 1933.
This course was located on the private estate of I. Kent Fulton. The 18-hole layout was designed by Devereux Emmet and built by Alfred Tull. This layout lasted about 9 seasons before it was turned back over to nature. It appears Mr. Fulton was very generous with his golf course, allowing many tournaments to be hosted on his links. In the early 1940’s before the course closed, the tournaments would raise money for the Red Cross. The course closed in April 1943 and Fulton died the following year.
Devereux Emmet quote relayed from J.G. Estill:
The Lakeville Journal., July 24, 1934
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_cHJyYRQK9WNaNnTWCpHjif.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b1f82f87-ae25-4dd7-b3aa-59b28868ffa7)
Here is a tribute to I. Kent Fulton shortly after he passed, written by Joseph G. Estill. Estill was a Master at Hotchkiss and served on the golf committee along with Charles Banks in 1922-1925. The quote posted above is repeated in this tribute.
The Lakeville Journal., June 08, 1944
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_eXmV5hQ3dyt6EBvGwJjrAk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b7b635c4-625c-480c-ac93-0ca0d5a5bb47)
An article noting the “Silver Mashie” tournament hosted annually at Hob Nob:
The Lakeville Journal., July 03, 1940
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_tjwDZ8JqCtW3iHtCKkyUjG.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/2e4fcfd0-a647-4124-8317-f79874e4d695)
Another article discussing the course raising money for the Red Cross:
The Lakeville Journal., November 19, 1942
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_oRN9rqKpqwmmykg26um58m.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ebcbd259-b6d7-4761-b7a3-3e839e943248)
1934 Aerial Showing Northern Portion (Hob Nob Hill)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mfGxw6izu9bUyW1LSyZcKP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/56a371a6-4008-4f59-a3e3-76b2fbd17daf)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial Showing Southern Portion (Hob Nob Hill)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jZywctqoWg1f3k19s9gFpa.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8619e727-9275-48b1-9ad1-72dc0b46d03f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial (Hob Nob Hill Full Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rLjRkWYC1UiL84oqAyaASU.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b3d84451-093e-455c-9e72-ef94c221c11d)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Honey Pot Country Club-Cheshire, CT (NLE) AKA Cheshire Golf Club
9 Holes, 3,000 Yards, Par 34: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1929.
I have very little information on this course. Sven mentioned this course in Reply 95, with a couple of articles and an aerial photograph.
The course was established in 1929 with the course opening 9 holes in 1930. The name was changed to Cheshire Golf Club in 1940 and today has been developed into housing.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bctFPeWoKuwmsKhjWUSjNZ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/4b0a6a3e-8b75-4c97-9eb3-c6c28ed7eb3b)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089;11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Hop Brook Golf Course-Naugatuck, CT. FKA Naugatuck Golf Club
9 Holes, 2,745 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1902.
Naugatuck Golf Club was founded in 1902. Naugatuck was the home club of William Burkowski (Billy Burke), where he caddied and learned to play the game. The designer for this course is unknown. The layout you see in 1934 is very similar to the course that exists today.
Short bio on Billy Burke, including his history with the Naugatuck Golf Club:
https://www.polishsportshof.com/portfolio_page/billy-burkowski-burke/ (https://www.polishsportshof.com/portfolio_page/billy-burkowski-burke/)
Old clubhouse photo:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_vz9J7KZmwdt4n9bbLxVdEk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/92bc000a-36c5-47de-b6f0-ec2b87e6c775)
Old photograph of Naugatuck Golf Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_1XuaichKQkMf9W994mc2Lq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6593e628-c5b1-4e7f-b11c-9e1c4c8e7164)
1934 Aerial showing northern portion of golf course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_vyyL6KnM3rHUtMMHsDjSCC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f4ee59c1-c980-4658-a989-06d35a537497)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing southern portion of golf course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9e5ZK2ANJBFcLSCUJPn1Hr.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/17804214-3c96-4d5e-897d-70efbd9463bd)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial (Hop Brook-Full Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_s51doVjw21PBms9zGC3hpY.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/6dde2c62-98a2-4638-aac8-ce087ae9716f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5809.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/675d59a3-0a7d-42ff-8cae-e6d937b6f0a4)
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Hotchkiss School Golf Course-Lakeville, CT
9 Holes, 3,312 Yards, Par 37: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Seth J. Raynor in 1923. Revisions by Charles H. Banks in 1929.
Golf at Hotchkiss dates back to 1895. Harper’s Round Table published the first routing of Hotchkiss on February 9, 1897:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender(64).jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e4b7a8a4-70c6-421a-9f4d-4d0c39527c3f)
The golf course expanded and moved around in the early days before Robert Pryde built a nine-hole course in 1911, which he laid out around the school. This course lasted about 10 years before an alumnus, Scott Probasco felt the course was no longer fit for students trying to learn the game. Probasco made a donation and challenged other alumni to do the same. Hotchkiss brought in Seth Raynor in 1923. Raynor completely redesigned the Pryde course, reversing the routing, building 8 new greens and adding about 700 yards to the golf course. It was reported that Raynor left the original third green intact, because the new road (Route 112) was coming through that section of the golf course.
Charles Banks was a member of the Hotchkiss golf committee when Raynor visited the school to redesign the golf course. As the story has been told before, Charles Banks eventually left his post at Hotchkiss, jointing Seth Raynor as a golf architect. Banks left the school in 1925 around the time the Hotchkiss School golf course opened. Banks was called back to Hotchkiss in 1929 to redesign the third green that was wiped out by Route 112. At the time of the 1934 aerial, the first hole was today’s 8th hole. To explain the course as it’s routed now, Banks designed today’s 1st green, and 9th hole. Banks reversed Raynor’s original 2nd fairway to play to his new green creating today’s 1st hole. Banks created an entirely new 9th hole by clearing a corridor to wrap back around to Raynor’s original 2nd green site.
The course has been altered since the 1934 aerial mainly due to the expansion of the school. In 1937 a new entrance was built to make the school more symmetrical and reduce traffic accidents. The new entrance warranted the move of the 7th green to a new location, shortening the hole considerably. No one seems to know who built this new 7th green in 1937. Today’s 2nd hole has also been shortened from a sub-300-yard Par 4 to a 165-yard Par 3. The green and contours appear original, but the surrounds were built up into a Punchbowl when the hole was shortened.
Today's 4th green has been moved to a new location by George Bahto in the early 2000’s and the style fits in with the other greens on the course. He originally had a hogsback spine in the green, but it was removed within a couple of years due to maintenance issues. Today’s 1st and 9th holes are much like Banks built them. Holes 3, 5, 6 and 8 are very original to how Raynor left them. The holes today are small circles mowed within bigger squares that are crying out for some TLC. The course contains many authentic contours in its greens that you just don’t see at a lot of other courses around Connecticut.
Article mentions Seth Raynor visited the Hotchkiss school on October 19th, 1923:
Lakeville Journal., October 25, 1923:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5tXQGDMSYgb64wBc88SFbc.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/89ec3b9e-e8f7-4bfd-a926-23795a63a5d0)
Hotchkiss course is being constructed under the supervision of Prof. C. H. Banks:
Lakeville Journal., July 24, 1924:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_j4eYS9ttFRgppJugbzdG5z.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/5251c036-44db-4058-a26b-6e4d0d1cc54e)
Hotchkiss School Golf Course expected to open August 15, 1925.
Lakeville Journal., August 06, 1925:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_eDbaXe756HcUKb5PUbc5De.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/de6b5c66-a2c2-4b83-8201-76e436f16fc2)
Charles Banks leaves Hotchkiss to join Seth Raynor.
Published in the Lakeville Journal., August 20, 1925:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8uBVL1RGvrfrYrTzeX9Lfb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/258ca68d-0ff7-4268-9f86-d61f2bbec4ce)
Charles Banks is hired to redesign two holes at Hotchkiss.
Lakeville Journal., December 12, 1929:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_xzvqyvPPfDmc8QFddB3EU5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/17c9fe54-13ba-4834-aa5a-76d43cf6b799)
History of the Hotchkiss School Golf Course by J.G. Estill.
Lakeville Journal., July 09, 1934:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3eADsZhPhRaB35kb2W79Py.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/32bc1917-41ce-4d80-80f7-e46de80fb087)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_xr2qQuvh6X7ZH7o4VUS8Ar.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ddf0ad4d-ab1e-4c68-8016-a40121270faf)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qVsQMTV9dUeBH4Cm9Vipmz.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/74b01f36-c188-4b76-b3d2-fe45e3f3a090)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1951 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/HotchkissGolfCourse1951_zps6b6e777c.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0413f0a1-c302-4de3-814e-0acab82b5526)
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5905.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b5b2699d-a8f3-4e27-889b-8ff7ec52e525)
Hunter Memorial Golf Course-Meriden, CT FKA Meriden Municipal Golf Course
9 Holes, 2,919, Yards, Par 37. 1932 Municipal Golf Course Report
Designed by Robert J. Ross 9 Holes in 1929. Revisions by Val Flood in 1932.
Established in 1929.
This Meriden Municipal Golf Course was established in 1929. The first nine holes were laid out by Robert J. Ross. The second nine holes were laid out by Val Flood in 1932, but the extension of the golf course was not completed by the 1934 aerial. The nine holes we see in this aerial appear to be the design of Robert J. Ross. The course eventually had nine holes added. A few architects have visited to make changes from time to time, Alfred Tull and Al Zikorus being the two names I've seen associated with the course in modern times. Today’s course doesn’t have a lot of original holes or features left over from 1934.
I have included a few articles Sven found a few years back that confirmed the course was designed by Robert J. Ross and not Robert D. Pryde as had been suggested previously.
Meriden Daily Record., August 28, 1929:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6050.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/62d5b870-9241-46ab-9083-8bb9b4452ac5)
Meriden Daily Journal., April 07, 1932
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6042.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/2ff15ed8-f954-4663-a914-b9e821a020ed)
18-hole layout of the course prior to acquiring land to the north discovered by Joe Bausch.
Meriden Daily Journal., October 21, 1931
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6041.JPG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a0488e87-02df-4686-b86e-e791827ccab7)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_63ow9zDHRwJQNrg4gLxnTC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7929fed2-2cb8-44d2-978d-50cfeddf9c50)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5811.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/1ee25c84-e1af-4db5-a290-7816ea3ff724)
Indian Hill Country Club-Newington, CT. FKA-Maple Hill, New Britain Golf Club, Sequin Golf Club
18 Holes, 6,130 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert J. Ross-1923, Robert D. Pryde-1912, John Duncan Dunn-1899. Established in 1899.
Indian Hill has a complicated history. Fortunately, their history has been well documented by the club. The course we see in 1934 was mainly the design of Robert Jack Ross, who was serving as President of the club at the time of the design. Orrin Smith was hired to construct the R.J. Ross design. The course was first designed in 1899 by John Duncan Dunn and known as Maple Hill. Robert Pryde made changes to the course when it was known as New Britain Golf Club. The course changed names to Sequin in 1917 and to Indian Hill in 1932. Anyone looking for more information can find it in the Club’s Centennial below.
Link to Club’s Centennial History:
https://ihccgolf.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/centennialbook.pdf (https://ihccgolf.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/centennialbook.pdf)
About the only routing the club is missing in the Centennial is the New Britain Golf Club layout. One of the members tried to recollect the course in the history and he did a pretty good job. Here is the layout from 1917:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender1_zpsa2da781d.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c1f74d98-9475-48f9-aa4b-c8761141ac47)
Today’s course has a very similar routing compared to the 1934 aerial.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5Tx8wYEdmpS8WJxpruKDnY.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5503a9dc-5411-4cd9-a273-f5b86186e5b8)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_aGSA7xvi2tQoufFjEq7uk8.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/1161e9ed-5663-4a4b-a90d-55fe6b91240f)
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Indian Neck Golf Course-Branford, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in: Unknown.
I am bringing this course back to the main list. I am not 100% sure this course had disappeared by 1934. From the little information I have, Indian Neck appears to be a seasonal course tied to the Montowese House in Branford. The hotel was open for business in 1934, but we have no information on the course at that time. The specific location of the golf course appears in this 1934 aerial. You may be able to spot a hole or two, but it’s difficult to make out an entire course. Was this course already closed or was it not yet prepped for the upcoming season? The information I received on this course (included below) comes from Jonas Peter Atkins.
Old photographs of the course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6070.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/7b1b07fe-c796-45d1-a34e-4ab5227ad9b9)
Old Postcard showing the Montowese House:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sCSj8FZXUfrapqaHmEkwEz.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/99f53387-d36c-4bbc-a446-966130e15971)
1908 Article announcing the opening of the summer season at the Montowese House.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rYZT8tBLZatFxu1X2CSgMV.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f2530e23-caee-4b4e-9530-56f202c7d300)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_t8mgoWpifbS7VfMF9RakZ2.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/02459c38-e026-4d74-9489-584cc2304449)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Innis Arden Golf Club-Old Greenwich, CT
18 Holes, 6,300 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Albert W. Tillinghast in 1920. Established in 1899/1905.
Innis Arden dates back to 1899 when golf was first played on the estate of J. Kennedy Tod. The 1899 courses design has always been credited to Tod, but the club moved to a new site around 1905. According to the golf guides the club was established at their new site in 1905 as the Sound Beach Golf Club. I don’t have any detailed information on Tillinghast working here in 1920, but he does advertise Sound Beach as one of his recent redesigns for 1920. Several architects have worked here since 1934.
The clubhouse for the original Innis Arden golf site still exists at Greenwich Point:
Connecticut Magazine., 1900
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gbxgsSKVSXsNrEyuxUYS5z.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/99ad9d42-2d69-4ad2-9280-9e93748e26e3)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dFaWVvaP15NKKaCKF5NyNo.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/53ea4d4f-04e4-41c6-9f05-92d35e4427ef)
Friends of Greenwich Point.com
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uqRM6WyvT1de7DCnB5QgYX.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/710d6546-4359-4379-a503-e29c240b364d)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5813.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/fc948634-97a8-4265-adba-1f1cf812e14e)
Keney Park Golf Course-Hartford, CT
9 Holes, 3,017 Yards, Par 35: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Devereux Emmet-9 in 1927. Robert J. Ross-9 in 1930.
Established in 1927.
The first nine holes opened in 1927 and were designed by Devereux Emmet:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_x3dGE7pR66nraWwxxrEMVx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/941804bd-daa6-4c90-90d1-d3db941da3d4)
The second nine holes were designed by Robert J. Ross and opened in 1930:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_muHxYxnSBCPZX3fH3nD1zE.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/afaa78bc-cf5a-4632-8c19-cf595db5d81d)
Robert J. Ross changed Emmet’s 2nd hole into a Par 5 and worked on the 7th hole in 1933:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8zL1jEtsqFpdS2bUuWN7C4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a1be56a6-30f1-41d7-9e01-b93ffd2e35f6)
Early Photographs from Keney Park found at the Hartford Public Library:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qCGuhFfUp52yY29WHwAU4G.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c9214ca3-c24f-4722-881b-f48f1aab9eb0)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sGZja5xCH6FJtgpD72Kuk6.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fef45b49-8c74-4c92-abac-1d820c00f282)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6au3ZdghpG8yvJXqcPN9uw.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f3629e6a-5bfc-4f7a-a213-fe715279b4a0)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_28aRZLzRb47gkeMWWzHTp6.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a66e3e5c-97b6-44ae-94a1-e0905b7f5c4e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kHMw6XcX5cT8TsbU8PXXMe.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/3d6d2b62-559b-4371-ad60-cb4f45d9b4f4)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pdtkt9rLGHmHiYLbHAmWo3.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6f292575-6fe4-498a-8936-c44e14284a8b)
1941 Photograph of Keney Park’s original 10th green:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6468.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a199cbfc-f192-49b7-876f-a59d81a5a4de)
Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Turfgrass Information Center.
In 2014 Keney Park underwent a complete renovation of the golf course headed by Matt Dusenberry. The renovation has since vaulted the course to the top of the list of Connecticut’s best public golf courses.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5tMHUTRsPSgcB96L5N9dMs.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7c441911-6381-4f0c-b220-10ee4cd9d2e0)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5814.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e2ea6f89-ed22-4702-aacb-a5387a9673cc)
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Lake Waramaug Country Club-New Preston, CT
9 Holes, 2,500 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1902.
The Lake Waramaug Country Club marks their establishment as 1902. The club history claims golf was played on a four-hole course as early as 1899. The various golf guides list Lake Waramaug’s year of establishment as 1916. I don’t have any information on this course outside of the history found on the club’s website and the information in the golf guides. The designer is unknown, but it’s a solid design that appears to have stood the test of time. The routing looks like it was shifted on the northern holes, due to a change in the clubhouse location. Matt Dusenberry was recently working on a renovation for Lake Waramaug. The modern aerial below is before his work began.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qc8CLkp4rdvTAz8sQh5wa1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c3175cec-7048-4f79-a4ce-f74d359273d8)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089;11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5815.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e105501f-bed9-4611-9706-7fe3514dd49f)
Litchfield Country Club-Litchfield, CT
9 Holes, 3,029 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1916.
The Litchfield Country Club was established in 1916. Litchfield had two Tom Bendelow courses in the late 1890’s. One golf course belonged to the Litchfield Lawn Club on the west side of town, while the other course belonged to the Bantam River Golf Club (aka Litchfield Golf Club) on the east side of town. The Lawn Club eventually dropped golf from its activities, focusing more on tennis. The Bantam River Golf Club continued on for several years until they had outgrown their golf course.
In 1916, the two clubs decided to merge to form the Litchfield Country Club offering both tennis and golf, among other activities. Alain White donated land and a clubhouse for the club to build their new course. Alain White is somewhat famous in Litchfield County for preserving over 4,000 acres of land around Litchfield back in the teens. Today, this land is under the watchful eye of the White Memorial Foundation which was conceived by Alain White and his sister as a memorial to their parents. Alain White served as the first president of the club in 1916. According to a 25-Year Anniversary of White Memorial, Robert D. Pryde laid out the golf course in 1916.
The course follows the same routing today, but there have been a few alterations. Several tee and fairway extensions have been added to mix up the Par between 9’s. I have been told by older members that the third green had to be completely rebuilt after the 1955 flood.
Bantam River Golf Clubhouse, early 1900’s:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6118.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/57358e73-69da-41b1-9268-1587450720fc)
Litchfield Historical Society
Today’s 2nd Hole from the 1920’s:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6365.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/36669405-0fa5-4188-9607-ad96413640f2)
Litchfield Historical Society.
Map of the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/8673FAC0-8AD2-448A-8086-A8C743AF9529_zpsq4kqzu94.png) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/2b610bc4-c73d-4f0c-b1c8-cac8c083d36d)
Litchfield Country Club.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4cMpf3P7RAwyp6r1NpCB5W.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7278e2ab-6f2c-4d5f-a454-f76ef7532a19)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089;11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5816.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/035f653b-e6c1-4cd6-9c09-cabda2a8b007)
Longshore Golf Course-Westport, CT. FKA Longshore Country Club
18 holes, 6,000 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1929.
Longshore is a municipal golf course today. I don’t have a lot of information on this course other than it started as Longshore Country Club in 1929. The course was designed by Orrin Smith and appears to share many of the holes he left behind in 1929. I believe there have been a few modifications to the course over the years, but I'm not sure who did the work.
Old Longshore Country Club Postcard Photo:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iQEKx76Fh9x2imDE9N7P4N.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d8cdc7a3-a07b-4b8d-b66c-75c1a0d1d3da)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_d6iKRSfCn9PifuxM9QYPym.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/12a16c67-a937-439b-8bb5-e9a8362fe565)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089;11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5817.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/92168037-6707-4abc-a88f-98b3c9deaa84)
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As a Connecticut native I have found this thread fascinating. Bret has done a tremendous amount of work to keep it rolling and unearthed some incredible information along the way. I’m looking forward to watching it progress.
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Louis E. Stoner Private Estate Course-West Hartford, CT (NLE)
9 Holes.
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1928.
I have very little information on this course. Anthony Pioppi recently sent me the articles below. The first article discusses the construction of the estate:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fCzAujgoQNq8v2YdSRizTm.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fb0a31d6-2f00-4116-9e94-9b0b85a933e0)
This article mentions Orrin Smith constructed the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_koLoA72HVLc9rHMpV3CWFy.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4e695e74-8558-4d3d-9c61-a6cb8d191981)
Louis Stoner had a son named Louis. Here, his son is playing another private estate prodigy:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iBGGFhakLAqgyn8zN3rZUA.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f53b1685-fdef-4304-a9f5-05330e281ecc)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nFtM5PNwrLkGvgCBMCo7Xm.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/ac191157-23b8-486b-a4ff-103a80bb6820)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089;11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Madison Country Club-Madison, CT
18 Holes, 6,152 Yards, Par 70:1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Willie Park Jr.-(9). Orrin Smith-(9). Established in 1900.
Madison Country Club began playing golf in 1900. There are reports from 1919 indicating the Club opened a new nine-hole course, seaside. Madison’s original 9 holes are credited to Willie Park Jr., yet no one seems to have any record of his visit. Madison Country Club is listed as one of Willie Park’s designs in later advertising pamphlets, similar to Country Club of New Canaan.
The club has records stating their second nine was constructed by Orrin Smith in 1930. I am not entirely sure which 9 holes belong to which architect. The club made a few alterations between this aerial and the 2000’s. Most of the changes have been made to holes 2-6 and todays Par 5 14th. Today’s third hole was extended with a new green on new property. One hole was discarded from the original routing and a new hole was designed in its place. Brian Silva came in within the last 5-10 years and completely renovated the course after Irene and Sandy came through. He rebuilt several greens, redesigned today’s 8th hole and modified today’s 14th hole, which has been changed on more than one occasion. The 18th hole was simply changed from a Par 5 to a Par 4 on the scorecard.
Postcard photo of Madison Country Club’s old clubhouse:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6461.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e8712fab-56d1-4c58-938d-d1866df53ed5)
Two oblique aerials from 1938 showing Hurricane damage to homes around Madison Country Club:
The aerial below shows today’s 3rd hole all the way to the right. The hole to the left of this 3rd hole no longer exists. This property is filled with houses today. Across the street you are looking at today’s 1st, 7th, 8th and 18th holes.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_upwQVmaDVhye1gxgsTLMV5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d13b9fa6-c4b4-463b-bcb2-e48ae7dff2f9)
In this aerial you are looking directly down today’s 10th hole. The 9th and 17th hole are to the right, the 11th and 16th holes are to the left.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_oDnCECjJ9RJSnbKCrQ9hvx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0605496a-cd85-49f2-9c38-c7490f0bad41)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qmZiWyJeb15jXeKD1BJDE7.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e2c62d97-e187-4e8c-b638-c913423e5f99)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089;11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5818.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7848d8d0-efff-437c-839a-faeb78be8adf)
Manchester Country Club-Manchester, CT
18 Holes, 5,875 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Tom Bendelow-9 holes (1922); Devereux Emmet-9 holes (1923), Edward Connery-6 holes (1917).
Established in 1917.
Golf in Manchester, more specifically South Manchester dates back to 1897. The course was called the Orford Golf Links and the golf team consisted entirely of Cheney family members; many of whom were responsible for the growth of golf in Manchester and Connecticut. The Cheney’s owned the silk factories that the city of Manchester was famous for. The first Connecticut Amateur champion was Thomas L. Cheney playing out of the Orford Links and Yale at the time of his victory.. The Orford Golf Links continued until 1916, before they were replaced by the Manchester Country Club. I have been told that the Orford course was located where Manchester High School is today.
According to the club history, six holes were first built in 1917 and they are credited to Edward Connery, the Scottish pro at the time and a member, J.P. Cheney. The club has correspondence and records that indicate Tom Bendelow built 3 new holes near the reservoir in 1922, before redesigning the 6 holes course laid out across the street. The club credits Devereux Emmet in 1923 with the design of nine holes on newly acquired property. Emmet’s holes include 5-13 in today’s routing, Bendelow’s holes make up the rest (1-4; 14-18). Tillinghast made a site visit after this aerial was taken, recommending several changes that appear to be carried out. The new location of the 16th hole appears to fall in line with Tillinghast’s advice. The 14th and 15th holes, which are back-to-back Par 5’s today, appear much shorter in the 1934 aerial. The 6th green has been moved back about 50 yards from Emmet’s original location and the 8th green was rebuilt after this aerial.
Devereux Emmet's nine holes were opened in 1925. Here is a scorecard showing the original 9 holes after Bendelow added 3 holes and redesigned the original six holes. Today's corresponding hole numbers are written in pencil next to the front nine. The back nine on the scorecard are the same nine holes duplicated.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bY7ddAY465zvN4DbtGDhms.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b9fea131-443b-40df-96f6-8310210706b4)
Manchester Historical Society; Manchester Country Club : A History
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_vAB8xKpv3i2SJBD9WfsrFi.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/74a810b6-02fd-4739-a615-b0e2c01b7d76)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089;11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5819.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/89036df3-634e-4f85-897f-958babb6bb3d)
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Meadow Brook Country Club-Hamden, CT (NLE)
18 Holes, 5,854 Yards, Par 70: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1924.
Meadow Brook is a course we have very little early information on. The original architect is unknown. The golf course was redesigned by William Mitchell in 1947 after the Wilbur Cross Parkway cut through two holes of the golf course. You can see these two holes in the southeast corner of the 1934 aerial. The club continued to shrink as the years went on losing more land to the south. The club closed in the early 2000’s. Today the location is home to Hamden Middle School and Town Center Park.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wyWEq4JnXJFUKTyLTPKK6p.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c0d67237-dfd3-4d63-9f74-ec3fb0cd12b8)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Milbrook Club-Greenwich, CT
9 Holes, 3,305, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1923.
Milbrook Club is a new addition to the original list. This is a club I know next to nothing about. The club website suggests their date of establishment is 1923. The old golf guides suggest a date of 1926. Anyone with information on this course please feel free to share. The club still exists with several architects visiting between the 1934 aerial and now.
The course on the 1934 aerial and today’s course share much of the same routing. It looks like the original 1st and 2nd holes were combined into today’s 1st. The original 3-7, became 2-6. A new 7th hole was constructed sometime between 1934 and now. Today’s 8th and 9th holes also appear similar to 1934. There is one extra hole in the northwest corner of the property. I’m not sure if it’s a practice hole or an alternate hole for 18?
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_49zyk7kWhJheLhxS3fAGvH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a330ce67-d7a9-4991-92ab-4904bbc640c2)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5820.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d8d36947-b472-40d2-84f2-6c6884ac8fbc)
Mill River Country Club-Stratford, CT
18 Holes, 6,020 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Thomas Winston. Established in 1923.
Mill River Country Club was established in 1923. The 18+hole golf course was designed by Tom Winton. According to the club, Winton’s first nine holes opened in 1923, followed by the second nine holes in 1925.
The original Tom Winton routing is mostly intact today, with the exception of one hole. Al Zikorus designed a new mid-length Par 3 12th hole to replace Winton’s shorter Par 3. Winton’s old 12th green remains in the ground as a practice hole today. If you’re looking on the aerial, the hole is located in the northwest corner of the property (close to the snack shack on the modern aerial). Zikorus’ new green is directly beneath the snack shack.
EDIT: Sven Nilsen recently discovered an article that suggests the Mill River Country Club took over the Weatogue Golf Club property, which already had a nine-hole Robert Pryde golf course. I’d like to find more information on Winton’s work at Mill River. I’m not sure which nine is Pryde’s and which nine is Winton’s?
Two articles sent over to me from Sven Nilsen. The first mentions R.D. Pryde designing the new course at Weatogue Golf Club in 1915.
Bridgeport Evening Farmer., August 17, 1915:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5JKSLfH39Tu18FMW7WuHR8.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/bd3e850f-0472-4252-8707-2badbb0ed029)
The second article mentions Mill River has taken over the dissolved Weatogue Club.
Bridgeport Telegram. September 29, 1923:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4X7y5JLFfpQFkZ76tNLgqh.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8d4acaf5-2ba2-42d2-a25b-dac9abf4f220)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5vJJYoXLSGnD2v1tMhW1tV.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5a27ca54-a9cd-4854-8231-ea7ccd4f0af1)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5821.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/436577f7-c06a-47ed-84ce-058359623562)
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New Haven Country Club-Hamden, CT
18 Holes, 6,220 Yards, Par 70: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Willie Park Jr. in 1920. Established in 1898.
New Haven Country Club was established in 1898. The club had one of the earliest 18-hole courses in the state dating back to 1900. New Haven has always been a very popular venue for state championships and state opens since these tournaments first began.
New Haven Country Club was looking to improve their golf course after the War. According to the 1948 club history, the club had asked Donald Ross and Seth Raynor to visit the site and submit design proposals, but neither architect’s plans were approved. In 1920 the club hired Willie Park Jr. to redesign the golf course. The design we see in 1934 is Willie Park’s routing. The design we see today is also Willie Park’s routing. Not much has changed at New Haven Country Club. The greens were carefully rebuilt about 10-12 years ago preserving much of the character that Willie Park left behind.
Old postcard photos of New Haven Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_p6d3eTJRdMgc1uKXuHuaXc.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/913374e8-1701-470b-a703-8eb7087a6947)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jePAc9Cv9PKRC2Gq5NvaLh.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/738d8526-3fa2-4847-8323-e210cd77f8e2)
Willie Park’s plan for New Haven Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/.highres/9172E3DA-B00A-4F35-BF7F-374040A56E66_zpsbssiqsiv.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/18cfb21e-57f1-4f24-a477-981b63bda4f5)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_2biSvPwFxRs2PHNfFFGYZC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3ad5fa60-675f-402b-8372-9d467d34c3da)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5822.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7b2d9c55-d1ab-41fd-9dbc-fd0ecf23c23d)
Newtown Country Club-Newtown, CT
9 Holes, 2,225 Yards, Par 35: 1929 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by George Sparling. Established in 1915.
Newtown Country Club was established in 1915. Several Newtown Bee articles suggest George Sparling, Brooklawn pro, laid out Newtown Country Club’s nine-hole golf course in 1915.
Gene Sarazen was given an honorary membership to Newtown Country Club when he became a Brookfield resident in the 1930’s. Before Sarazen built a golf course on his property, he often took advantage of his honorary membership, frequently visiting and practicing at Newtown. To show his gratitude, Gene Sarazen once hosted a golf event to benefit the Country Club’s treasury.
Newtown follows a routing today that is very similar to the 1934 design. Many of the green sites are the same, with one or two exceptions. The greens in the modern aerial appear updated and enlarged compared to their 1934 counterparts.
Article suggesting Mr. Sparkling (sp?) from the Bridgeport Country Club was laying out the first 5 holes. George Sparling was the pro at Brooklawn at the time.
Newtown Bee.,
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/3C57C3A3-2D77-44AD-B1F3-717C1048E9A9_zpskii2xnpo.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b73c6599-9a49-46c7-888d-70d1042afd9d)
Newtown Bee., May 25, 1934
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/219BCD82-F2F7-4D91-9060-DED169B8F214_zpsdzps0alu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/2b9e7ae1-e6eb-46e9-90e5-b4797aa3242f)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/506BA101-F1A8-4C97-88C1-883A217AE5D1_zpskwljaswf.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6795848b-5789-45e5-9fb9-7bdb61b42329)
Newtown Bee., May 08, 1936:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/6D3D9A01-BB30-41DC-9DA4-58E14A71BCB0_zps5ii9n2ye.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a0584034-bdc1-4563-83f7-4216965f358e)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wm92jTqSXZpngNat1H1FW3.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/83bc0bfb-67df-42e4-bd97-6780f8f70314)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5824.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/864301c5-564a-4eb8-a655-ffc80838d5c8)
Norfolk Country Club-Norfolk, CT
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by Albert W. Tillinghast. Established in 1912.
When the Norfolk Country Club was established in 1917 there was only one golf course in town. Club members would play next door at the Norfolk Downs Golf Club (see listing below). Norfolk Country Club built a clubhouse in 1917 but didn’t have their own golf course for the first nine or ten years of existence. The club was actually founded in 1912 using the Town Gymnasium as their original quarters.
When this Connecticut Aerial list was first put together, it had yet to be discovered that Tillinghast designed this nine-hole course. The club has found some internal information that ties this design to A.W. Tillinghast. Tillinghast later made a site visit to the Norfolk courses after this aerial was taken. At that time, Norfolk Country Club was considering buying the Norfolk Downs nine-hole course. Tillinghast recommended the best way to link up the two courses. Needless to say, The Norfolk Downs course was never purchased, the link up never took place and today Norfolk Country Club is the only surviving course in town. A good portion of the Tillinghast design remains intact.
Pre-golf course photo:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6389.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b5392603-c2b2-49df-b613-3ec7f38162c1)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rWo5sALvmphv3zvbMx7SL4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/60f56c6f-e786-4da8-ad84-9a23465203dc)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5906.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/636f3d39-0542-4ce7-b685-5179db764e5e)
I’m not sure which Norfolk course this is from, so I will place it between these two listings:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pBEJiU7sHk8arxt3Kog15J.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/052dafc6-8956-48e7-ae4d-b636e0202049)
Norfolk Downs Golf Club-Norfolk, CT (NLE)
9 Holes, 2,301 Yards, Par 33: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1897.
The Norfolk Downs Golf Club was established in 1897. The golf course was a gift of Miss Isabella Eldridge, a local resident and benefactress to the town of Norfolk. She donated many gifts to the Norfolk towns people mostly geared toward the engagement of activity, recreation and bringing people together.
Norfolk hosted several tournaments in the early days and Miss Eldridge would donate Silver Cups to offer as prizes to the winners. A few of these trophies still exist and they can be found today in the Brooklawn Country Club trophy case. Miss Eldridge passed away in 1926 and the course was taken over by her nephew. He died shortly thereafter, and the property was leased for a period of 5 years. By 1941, the course folded. Today the property is a tree farm, the old golf shelter still exists, and a small portion of the land now houses the Norfolk Curling Club.
An interesting early article mentioning Miss Eldridge and Dr. Cobb getting instructions from a Scottish expert. The writer also shares some golf history from an 1897 perspective:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_idYuP4VxjZJszwujCsQ4Zp.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e726dc87-50c8-4aa9-8607-98cd3b3d2134)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9CRqhwGoAwz1nqokBqBRnX.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4a75859d-ebdc-4db3-a9cb-68f564061223)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_koFtyMPq4rnYMH3DzFTq4n.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/82cc8b18-8673-42ce-91f7-9bc83350ce9f)
Early photograph from Norfolk Downs Golf Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4jaEt69CEvn3GueYR993cT.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/79419e07-a78e-4c7d-85ab-163e74c9b626)
The golf shelter remains on the property today, next door to the Norfolk Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6133.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/332053a2-6c8e-4a1c-96c9-44b337533f60)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_1BejfgcTo4jogV2WQXQGY6.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5f4d1907-72a6-4c37-afcb-1194009f3394)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing Norfolk Country Club (Top); Norfolk Downs (Bottom)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mtJzZToKPGmHBGv5ngvp9x.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/9ab89c0b-3403-4c96-946e-92bd10f43f22)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Bret:
The 1900 Connecticut Magazine article on golf in the state notes Norfolk Downs was laid out under the supervision of Dr. A. E. Cobb.
Sven
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Bret:
The 1900 Connecticut Magazine article on golf in the state notes Norfolk Downs was laid out under the supervision of Dr. A. E. Cobb.
Sven
Sven,
You are correct and thank you for adding that information. The reason I wrote unknown is because I have seen a reference to a Scottish expert designing the links while Dr. Cobb (who was a local Norfolk resident) laid out the course. I could never find the name of the Scottish expert. Norfolk Downs is also a unique case in the aerials, because the course is 37 years old at the time. It looks to me like the course has modern greens and bunkers. I really don’t know if the course we see in 1934 is the same course laid out in 1897? I also don’t have information to suggest it wasn’t. It’s a course I’d like to learn more about. I think one theme we see in these aerials, and you probably know it better than anybody is that the designs from 1900 rarely survived to 1934.
I will be happy to put Cobb’s name in if everyone thinks that’s the appropriate listing, but I think if we leave it unknown, it’s more likely to encourage further research to a course that may need it.
Bret
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I think one theme we see in these aerials, and you probably know it better than anybody is that the designs from 1900 rarely survived to 1934.
Can we assume that once you wrap this up we'll get a follow up on the locations of all of the CT courses that were NLE by 1934? ;)
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I think one theme we see in these aerials, and you probably know it better than anybody is that the designs from 1900 rarely survived to 1934.
Can we assume that once you wrap this up we'll get a follow up on the locations of all of the CT courses that were NLE by 1934? ;)
Not all of them! :)
But I will go over every NLE course included on the original list.
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Norwich Golf Course-Norwich, CT. FKA Norwich Golf Club
18 Holes, 6115 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Tull & Tull. Established 1895.
The early golf guides are all over the place with the year of establishment for Norwich Golf Club. Golf appears to have been played very early in Norwich. Between 1910-1915 Robert D. Pryde was reported once or twice a year visiting the Norwich course offering suggestions for improvement. Pryde’s golf course was on the same land, but his routing didn’t appear to survive the redesign. In those days, the golf course was tied to the Norwich Inn. Pryde’s course went in reverse of today's 16th and 17th holes to accommodate the starting point at the Inn. The Norwich Inn still abuts the golf course property near the 17th tee, but it’s heavily screened off, as the course is now run by the City of Norwich.
In the 1920’s Tull & Tull was hired by the club to redesign the golf course.
Tull & Tull consisted of William Tull and Frank Tull. William was Alfred Tull’s father and Frank was Alfred’s brother. Alfred Tull was building golf courses for Devereux Emmet in the 1920's, while Tull & Tull generally built courses for Walter Travis. There is information suggesting Walter Travis visited the course, but for one reason or another he was never hired. Tull & Tull lists both Norwich and Alexandria Bay as their own designs in a late 1920’s advertisement. The pair also include several courses they built for Walter Travis under a separate heading titled: “Courses Constructed”. The Tull & Tull designed Norwich golf course opened in 1926.
A good portion of the routing is still intact, with a few greens being replaced over the years to lengthen the course. Holes 1-10 are similar to today. The 11th green looks like it was moved across the stream to lengthen the hole. The 12th hole may have been shifted slightly to make up for the lost yardage on the 11th hole extension? 13-18 appear to have the same routing, with the exception of the 17th green which was moved back to lengthen the hole.
Postcard photo of the Norwich Inn:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6462.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1bab094e-45f9-49b4-8849-d3cf3c6d3212)
Tull & Tlull Advertisement.
Golf Illustarted., November 1924:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/E1514C5B-9F8B-4F2A-BB8C-D8D2BC25C62C_zpsilalrxmq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1c560210-47e9-45a0-96f2-48889d03e045)
1934 Aerial showing western portion of the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rhVCvoKuMkTc6hu7xz4JbM.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/30f98d23-5e54-4042-b17b-9722c8d6e9e2)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing eastern portion of the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8Bc6xLCKYSvfawGYdzwyEb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/299f5f28-04ce-4e66-b221-1f53ca027ea1)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerials (Full Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bo6kEfoBvXgZQo4bDcgM34.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d81ad87c-c0f8-4354-bda2-e109937dd64a)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5907.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5aec99e6-59ea-42c0-9557-6ef34fce59e2)
Old Lyme Country Club
9 Holes, 2,309 Yards, Par 33: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1916.
I don’t have a lot of information on Old Lyme Country Club. I have seen reports that the club rebuilt the course after suffering significant damage from the 1938 hurricane. Edit to the above, the club suffered damage in 1954-1955
The Day., May 25, 1955
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6216.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6a492e89-70e4-4ca7-8ccf-8110d4f44bc5)
The course includes 3 new holes on new land that can be seen as early as 1961. It’s been reported that William Mitchell worked here in 1949, but the new holes didn’t appear until long after he visited the course. With the extension of the three holes on new land, several holes on the original land appear to be rerouted. A few original green sites and hole locations remain from 1934.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9L5hreys6yavfzG3FjFBe6.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/98822c82-fd25-45b3-a4f7-76bb4c787f93)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing western section of the golf course
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5908.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0c81749c-6f13-4829-add3-e4dfc4ecf1b9)
Modern Aerial (Full Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6218.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4dc26acd-3428-4498-9d65-39773431dce1)
Orange Hills Golf Course-Orange, CT FKA Rolling Ridge Country Club
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1927.
Orange Hills Golf Course was known as Rolling Ridge Country Club when it opened in 1927. According to the club, the course only lasted four years before it was turned over to a new owner in 1930. I have seen Robert Pryde credited with the design of this golf course, but I have no information on the year he was there.
Today’s course was redesigned by Geoffrey Cornish in 1957 and retains a few of the original Pryde holes. Today’s 1st, 7th, 8th, 17th and 18th holes are similar to Pryde’s design in 1934. Today’s 10th hole appears to be a shortened version of Pryde’s hole, playing now as a long Par 3. The 16th green is also a remnant of the Pryde course, while the remainder of the hole is a Cornish design.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qpWm95bBDzohUtyWMSHPWD.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/9a71ad09-a674-4774-b8f9-0e2b5dc90e1f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archive Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5909.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/45195835-250e-48e7-8d88-88af680ed9e6)
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A bit of a mystery course that seemingly was NLE by 1934.
Elm Terrace Inn, West Haven, CT
The Inn was located right on the Long Island Sound, with the course extending back beyond along the Oyster River. The plan below confirms the 9 holes were designed by Willie Park.
I've seen reports of golf being played here in the late 1930's, and the course is listed in a guide to recreation around New Haven from 1941.
Jan. 1922 Concrete -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_-_Concrete_Jan._1922.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_-_Concrete_Jan._1922.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Ad for the Inn -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_Inn_Ad.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_Inn_Ad.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
Plan of the Course -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_Inn_Plan.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_Inn_Plan.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
1934 Aerial -
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_Aerial_-_1934.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/cc435/snilsen7/Elm_Terrace_Aerial_-_1934.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
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Paul Block Private Estate Golf Course-Greenwich, CT. AKA Friendship
9 Holes.
Designed by Wayne Stiles & John Van Kleek. Established in 1926.
Paul Block was a newspaper publishing magnate who bought Overlook Farm in 1926. He transformed the farm into his personal estate, moving into the house in 1929. In a 1931 advertisement, Stiles and Van Kleek list the private 9-hole course for Mr. Paul Block in Greenwich, CT as one of their designs.
The Paul Block Estate was purchased by The Convent of Sacred Heart School, a school for girls in 1942. A small section of the Paul Block Estate Golf Course is today part of Fairview Country Club’s property. The Par 3 near the pond looks very similar to what Stiles and Van Kleek left behind but was likely rebuilt by Robert Trent Jones. The remaining two corridors shared by both courses have been reversed.
1926 Westchester County Aerial showing the golf course under construction:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_2vp6hWQA9ZxjmbfcncVD4x.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/3a6f26fd-37ce-449a-8681-c725e039bb98)
The Historical Aerial Photography Collection of Westchester County, Department of Planning, 1926.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gjEFR2hvbkieSe6MbQw2pu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a5af248f-999b-4972-a51a-fb1070320cb1)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5847.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/42240cc9-ca2f-45f3-9795-4c8f731c28c7)
Pequabuck Golf Club-Terryville, CT. FKA Highland Golf Club
9 Holes, 3,105 Yards, Par 34: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1902.
Pequabuck was established in 1902 with a five-hole golf course. Prior to 1922, the club was known as Highland Golf Club. Herbert Lagerblade was a member here before he moved on to Chippanee. Harry Bartholomew was also a member of Pequabuck and he was largely responsible for the success of the club as it moved into the 1920’s. Today, there is an Annual Bartholomew Four-Ball tournament which draws players from all over the state.
The course in the 1934 aerial looks similar to the latest layout below. Today the course has been expanded to 18 holes, using new land and a portion of the course we see in 1934. The redesign was done by Geoffrey Cornish. Today’s 1-9 follows much of the same routing as their counterparts in this 1934 aerial. Cornish also retained today’s 16th and 17th holes. Two of the holes seen in 1934 have been turned into a driving range. Geoffrey Cornish appears to have rebuilt several of the greens leaving behind only a handful of 1934 originals.
1902 article on the new club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fL1p6wgmjpQyv2ADUE6BUW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4c69dcda-e844-49b7-997f-19121b807f29)
A second club in town known as Clover Hill, laid out by R. B. Wilson who spent time at Shinnecock in the early days of that club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mNSpm6m3uqjZNJCfZF9hk5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/40184b0f-ffea-45a8-b8e8-349e9e6469d5)
An article discussing a potential merger between the two clubs:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_tr6pDoaUaSPPTsv2RkUCKE.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8aed66bf-3124-4ccc-9d34-75514b146d52)
Herbert Lagerblade noted as a member of Highland Golf Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_tDxkj1qj88Ci3GN7tRpxH9.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0da98a41-8f6b-4a38-8e0d-43f8d6038556)
There were several hand-drawn layouts displayed in the clubhouse a few years back. Modern interpretations of how the course played based on member recollections.
1902 Highland Golf Club
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6152.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/15e876bf-9872-443e-bc0c-71eefdab2929)
1928 Pequabuck Golf Club
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6151.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/29869733-3281-4800-8b33-4b931ee7c697)
1934 Pequabuck Golf Club
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6150.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0a744c4d-ef5f-4e31-9f4c-ba1b88716c44)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pkpeJkUFbXkF75pAAYaTFP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/46efe722-9f95-43c5-8113-18625c616491)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing the same portion of today’s golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6220.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a518348a-af8c-4bdc-a235-897d456f777a)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 18-hole course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6221.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f9552559-6668-4eab-b30c-118aa6eccd31)
Pine Orchard Yacht & Country Club-Branford, CT. FKA Pine Orchard Golf Club
9 Holes, 3,100 Yards, Par 38: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1901.
Pine Orchard was designed by Robert Pryde in 1901. The course appears to have been rerouted since the 1934 aerial. The club experienced damage during the 1938 hurricane, with a section of the golf course submerged under water.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rV7SYmQfznAZ2xu8HMWKcB.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/842679f3-7245-46ce-b3d8-db9ae8e18527)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5838.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a627050b-1ec7-4e06-963e-76f3d052589f)
1938 Hurricane Aerial showing a portion of Pine Orchard submerged under water.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wV85PSa9fktMUk5vpiEWPf.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a563fb9f-3fc0-477b-980d-caa49c05431c)
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Bret-I’m a fan of all the Robert Pryde golf courses I’ve played with Pine Orchard being no exception. The first time I played was with you a number of years ago and came away with the feeling that it is a top tier nine holer in Connecticut if not New England. It’s no surprise that the routing is different than opening day as the the 1938 hurricane wreaked havoc on the Connecticut shoreline.
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Sven,
Thanks for including Elm Terrace Inn by Willie Park. That is certainly a mystery and I don’t really have any information to add to that one.
Tim,
I agree. I have enjoyed the Robert Pryde courses I’ve played too. I thought Pine Orchard was a terrific course with a charming setting. I’m not sure the course is a Robert Pryde anymore. The superintendent we met that day speculated that Robert Trent Jones may have worked on it? William Mitchell is also credited with working there in the 1940’s.Whoever built it did a pretty good job!
Bret
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Pleasant View Golf Course-Meriden, CT (NLE)
9 Holes, 2,985 Yards, Par 34: See article below.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1932.
Pleasant View Golf Course was established around 1932. George Hunter was reported as the professional here in 1932. He later became the longtime pro at Meriden Municipal which is now named Hunter Memorial Golf Course in his memory. We have very little information for this course outside of what is included in the articles below. The golf course no longer exists.
1932 article including the Pleasant View Golf Course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_1zd8E8GgdZqpZgV5AysR6M.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8b832e68-e0ac-4fa2-b9a2-826e17e3731d)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_cTM8a851pPsjxJQA1jKhk2.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b7cf0b47-fd71-4a79-b061-dcc20491e2a3)
Another article suggesting Pleasant View was opened around 1932:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nzNdoJQqf946Xg7NZAz8jS.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/94ca85a4-9883-458a-bffc-7611688a72cb)
An early routing map sent over to me from Sven Nilsen.
Meriden Daily Journal., May 26, 1932:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6228.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8ccc3788-9754-4067-b571-76a804b5555a)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sDFuPB6j1dJoX5VjwjVwGx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f07f64d6-c333-4063-b06e-b4cc3388ada5)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Plymouth Meadow Country Club-Windsor, CT. FKA Windsor Golf Club. (NLE)
9 Holes, 2,207 Yards, Par 35: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Charles Henderson. Established in 1911.
1921 Article:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_u6jwetV8UFTqWq1xig8uje.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6621827b-5675-47cb-bcdb-145707efc18f)
1922 Article:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_vFkEQPExqdbYiYnpUx82S1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/7eaa7813-bd8a-46fa-b522-317c4ac2818d)
Plymouth Meadow Country Club was formerly known as Windsor Golf Club. The Windsor Golf Club was established in 1911 and moved to a new site in 1921. I can’t find any information tying Charles Henderson to either site. Charles Henderson was the longtime pro at the Country Club of Farmington, preceding Arthur Reid. Carl Anderson was reported expanding the course to 18 holes after the 1934 aerial.
EDIT: The Plymouth Meadow course closed down sometime in the 1940’s. I had originally written that Plymouth Meadow survived until the 2000’s under the name The Traditions at Windsor. However, I have recently discovered that Plymouth Meadow and Traditions at Windsor (formerly Mill Creek Golf Course) were on separate properties. Plymouth Meadow was very close to the Loomis Chaffe campus, while Traditions at Windsor was located close to the intersection of Bloomfield Avenue and I-91. Both of these courses no longer exist. Traditions at Windsor closed in 2014.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iZDwNu5DeijVSPCX6bjPJ9.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e70433d8-07a4-4671-b641-5df84a550da0)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Pomfret Golf Club-Pomfret, CT (NLE) AKA Pomfret Country Club
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by: Arthur G. Lockwood. Established in 1916.
Pomfret Golf Club is a new addition to the original list. Sven Nilsen recently sent me the name and location of this golf course. We don’t have any information from early on, but there is a story from when the course closed suggesting the year of establishment is 1916.
Sven recently sent over this 1916 article noting Arthur Lockwood laid out the Pomfret course around 1916:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rv9FALk566DK8E5dwS7kKn.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a6ce4556-59f9-4999-9a51-112a08594500)
1974 Course Closing:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_b8J8ZnF8KxdmVufVNWzwPe.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/06397a8d-d44c-45ec-b56d-276ee8979035)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_p76TRxmMX7KXk3NTW5vGpT.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/51aa991a-6e1c-468d-a33b-c07c238e9d6c)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Putnam Country Club-Putnam, CT (NLE)
9 Holes, 3,000 Yards, Par 37: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: T. L. McNamara. Established in 1915.
Putnam Country Club was established in 1915 according to the old golf guides. We have very little information on this course. Today the course no longer exists. Interstate-395 currently bisects the property.
Sven Nilsen sent over this article noting T. L. McNamara laying out the Putnam course in 1915.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uqkCSEa7SMWcsTg6FZKbRs.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d1ff1548-ed0f-49e5-8201-239767d12980)
Putnam Country Club Clubhouse Opening 1915:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sQwattiL9FvBiwGicimPPR.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b0a659f2-8723-496a-828f-2b8203e13143)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_79Rdoy2sAaksGbsAhEwFYP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8f2e3702-5fc8-4f68-92ce-80a6e48881ed)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Quinnatisset Country Club-Thompson, CT. FKA Norman B. Ream Private Estate Course.
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1901.
Quinnatisset Country Club was formerly a private estate course owned by Norman B. Ream. Ream purchased the property in 1901, transforming the land into his private retreat named Caroline Hall. In 1890, Norman Ream was considered the 25th Richest Man in the World. When Ream died in 1915, the estate was given to his daughter Marion. The course continued as an estate course open exclusively to the owners and guests until the 1940’s, when the Quinnatisset Country Club, formed by a group of local men, began leasing the property. When Norman’s daughter Marion died in 1963, she bequeathed the golf course to the Quinnatisset Country Club.
In 1966 Geoffrey Cornish was hired to add nine holes on new land, extending the course to 18 holes. In 2003, Roger Rulewich redesigned the original nine holes left mostly untouched by Cornish. The club acquired additional property allowing Rulewich a bigger footprint to work with. The course we see in 1934 no longer exists. Today’s course sits on the same property and includes impressive century-old mason work left behind from Ream’s tenure that is still visible throughout the golf course.
EDIT: According to the club’s history the Quinnatisset Country Club was not developed until the early 1940’s. However, there are two articles below suggesting Quinnatisset Country Club was in existence in the 1920’s. The first article is from a 1920 History of Windham County mentioning the club was formed after Ream’s death to pay for the maintenance of the golf course. In 1926, Miss Glenna Collett is playing an exhibition match at Quinnatisset Country Club.
History of Windham County., 1920:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wMaZyvubVzt3fYf5ESjKqW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/bbe9a067-a4c9-47d9-9475-648d44e99db8)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_31HLTSNQWahqg9CBkcSyfe.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fe3ef6d2-fff7-46ea-85c9-331f11c788e6)
Sent to me from Anthony Pioppi-
Golf Illustrated., December 1926:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6310.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f53414e9-5f18-4d12-8570-a43ba63c2d74)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8jVdn4WyMiEXERroZ2jjgn.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/95fd3508-7ca7-4099-bcf0-5a8f6d5dc03a)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5839.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0c6e4c2a-c388-482b-986f-30b56684ba95)
Quotonset Golf Club-Westbrook, CT (NLE)
9 Holes, 3,090 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1900.
Quotonset Golf Club was founded in 1900. We have very little information on this golf course. I believe Clinton Country Club has information for this course displayed in their clubhouse. Clinton and Quotonset were both started around the same time and were located within close proximity to each other. Quotonset Golf Club disappears by the 1951 aerial. By 1970, the land had been developed into housing.
An article from 1926 discussing a land dispute with a neighbor:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kk2BZ1HGNtHsmbkdgwuNEM.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/5477718d-7328-4803-bc91-6d72ce70a53b)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5S9nByVSyZsuWxLbLynVHS.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5024886b-1ed9-4d71-be18-fd176f98931d)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1938 Aerial showing hurricane damage to structures surrounding Quotonset Golf Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iRH4gTndzq2SdCGATkxpwS.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e6dc035b-d696-4092-bb9e-c36282e69260)
Race Brook Country Club-Orange, CT
36 Holes: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Course No. 1: 18 Holes, 6,067 Yards, Par 71
Course No. 2: 18 Holes, 6,062 Yards, Par 71
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1912.
Race Brook was established in 1912. Within a short period of time, the club purchased 145 acres east of Race Brook Road. Robert Pryde designed the club’s first 18-hole golf course that opened in 1913. Robert Pryde served as the golf coach at Yale when Race Brook was first conceived. Once the golf course was completed, Race Brook became Yale’s home club until 1926. The team won three of its intercollegiate championships while playing at Race Brook Country Club. Robert Pryde was a longtime resident of Orange with a house located on the Race Brook golf course. While serving as Secretary of the Connecticut State Golf Association, Pryde would conduct the association’s business from his Orange address.
In 1923 The club purchased an additional 125 acres west of Race Brook Road. Robert Pryde designed 18 new holes on the property, but in doing so he used holes from each side of the street to make up the club’s primary championship course. The remaining 18 holes made up the secondary course.
Today, Race Brook Country Club is a 27-hole layout. Nine of the holes west of Race Brook Road have been out of commission for years and they remain along the outside perimeter of today’s existing nine holes (Holes 4-12). The nine holes lost are mostly covered with trees now, but a few of the course’s features still remain. On the eastern portion of Race Brook Road, there are still 18 holes today. The remaining nine holes of the championship course (1-3; 13-18) and today’s O’Sullivan Nine make up the eastern portion of the property. The course has undergone work including updated bunkers, added length and several modifications, but the core of Pryde’s routing remains mostly intact.
Early article mentioning some of Robert Pryde’s work including Race Brook:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6307.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/252f2243-4731-4a5f-8997-538a7051becf)
1934 Aerial showing 18 Holes east of Race Brook Road:(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fiapMeAVAxCT3NjMU9FaeW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/4697d598-6fae-4721-9831-de26ae9d6f74)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing 18 Holes west of Race Brook Road:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bF9ejbkPKC92YUBrWKSV8s.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/32c77284-0907-4819-8ce0-2a382b609c1c)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial (Full 36-Hole Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4bLisFA7WbC3nxDjWhMhLX.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3f8d15a1-24b1-4f65-b6b0-288e8824fbef)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5840.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c38e08d0-720f-48e4-8844-5f7afd03f14f)
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Bret-Racebrook is another Robert Pryde effort that never really has gotten it's due outside of the New Haven area. It’s a course I’ve always enjoyed playing and has a rich history because of the Pryde connection with its centennial taking place in 2012. Despite crossing Racebrook Road twice during the round the routing flows nicely and offers a fun variety of holes. It’s interesting to see how the current eighteen hole course encompasses holes from the thirty six that were there back in the day.
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Ridgewood Country Club-Danbury, CT
18 Holes, 6,227 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Devereux Emmet. Established in 1921.
Ridgewood Country Club was established in 1921. Devereux Emmet designed the 18-hole golf course we see in the 1934 aerial. According to the club’s history, the first nine holes opened in 1921, with the second nine opening the following year. In the 1960’s, Interstate-84 was planned through the southern section of the club’s property, cutting through Emmet’s 7th, 8th and 9th holes. In 1966, Ridgewood Country Club hired Geoffrey Cornish to design four new holes replacing the three holes lost to the highway and flipping the original 5th hole into today’s 8th hole. Cornish added todays 8th, 10th, 15th and 16th holes. In 2002 the course was renovated by Roger Rulewich.
Old postcard photo of Ridgewood:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6278.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/91fc3246-bf15-49bd-b6a0-9a9c135b7adc)
Original layout vs. Today’s layout from the club’s website:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_hGWZrPnRLbuiNxfzTb2Nnv.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/71c25af3-db5a-4d9a-a30a-a8233b54d84f)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_1MjzQKRMrZhdq3qRXp5BJw.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/74026376-a681-4cf4-af2f-ae2f982ca2b0)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5851.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/9b25026a-cae0-45df-856f-a2b8730b3058)
Rockledge Golf Course-West Hartford, CT
No listing in 1930-1931. 18 Holes.
Designed by Robert J. Ross/Maurice Kearney. Established in 1926.
Rockledge was established in 1926. Maurice Kearney and Robert J. Ross are responsible for the design we see in the 1934 aerial. The pair seemed to work together on a few projects including West Hartford Golf Club, Rockledge and Middletown Golf Club. Maurice Kearney was a longtime professional in CT, winning the state’s first PGA tournament, known as the PGO at the time. Robert J. Ross was an engineer for the City of Hartford.
The course was a privately owned pay-as-you play course in 1927. The owner Mr. Sherman eventually sold the land to the city to be used in their park system. Today, Rockledge is owned by the City of West Hartford. Orrin Smith made several modifications to the course in the 1950’s. Al Zikorus also made some alterations when he was hired in the 1970’s. The course sits on the same land today. The majority of the holes are still intact, with the most significant changes occurring on the Par 3 and Par 5 holes.
Rockledge Incorporation 1926:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8Nu6W9qQrL4ybviM17tt9W.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c0005e19-4893-4f8c-8955-44deee5f2985)
First nine holes open in May 1927 (Last paragraph):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_q1eNepSiYXAAACtc499Dg5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/26513a79-9b70-4561-8a48-d41ab21d0edb)
2nd nine opened in August 1927 (with a few holes to go):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7jGq8WK4Xc1aTV8JZfut3h.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/3fe2cf0b-1145-4983-b755-f43410f2b772)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iQnWdEnMTgjNhoiqEF3ENS.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/66b59899-9d30-4351-b717-6a988733e5c6)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_d25qyyffzwG42rcoJDuHXm.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/29f0ba8b-0552-4ea7-84a2-38b99a3529df)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5852.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/bcd92a59-5c76-4df6-8c0b-24ba3f932103)
Round Hill Club-Greenwich, CT
18 Holes, 6,400 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Walter J. Travis. Established in 1924.
Round Hill Club was established in 1922. Walter Travis designed an 18-hole golf course for the club which opened in 1924. Tull & Tull were in charge of constructing the golf course. A local member named Harry Fisher donated a large amount of land to the club, providing a suitable location for the clubhouse. The clubhouse was designed by Delano & Aldrich and also opened in 1924.
The Walter Travis routing appears to be intact today. The club’s 11th hole was redesigned into a Par 3 by Robert Trent Jones in the 1950’s. Brian Schneider was recently hired by the club to restore the course in 2018.
Round Hill Clubhouse-1935:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ayFXpFUVR3cPyLA8TjA86j.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/40bf7952-4a5a-452e-883f-44e6a13e1231)
Greenwich Old & New: The Greenwich Press., 1935
Round Hill Clubhouse-2016:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/RoundHillClubHouse_zps8e8a60d4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a5cb71f9-bcca-4235-8c36-7b38cdbe9ab7)
Photograph from the golf course-June 16, 1956:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_aUqcTh5FBrZpt6KS8px8gw.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/2153a43d-b127-4197-bde5-f222ba645e3a)
Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Libraries, Turfgrass Information Center.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_p75VgtSjWjzBbyFXXx1QxR.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c1a1dbdf-d330-4baf-bf82-0e5b3eac6a52)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5853.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c966a59c-efec-465a-b239-48377bbff6df)
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Salmon Brook Country Club-Granby, CT (NLE)
36 Holes: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
18 Holes, 6,100 Yards, Par 71
9 Holes, 2,280 Yards, Par 35
9 Holes, 1,000 Yards, Par 27
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1926.
We are lacking early information on Salmon Brook Country Club. According to an article published in 1943, the club was started in 1926 by Dr. Ernest R. Pendleton. Dr. Pendleton wanted a golf course nearby his hospital in Granby. The course started with nine holes and gradually grew into 36 holes by 1931. The facility was privately owned but considered a pay-as-you-play golf course. Salmon Brook Country Club closed in 1943. Twenty years later a push was made to rebuild a course on the site of Salmon Brook with little opposition at first. However, the plan ultimately fell apart and today the site is home to Salmon Brook Park.
Salmon Brook advertisement. (Includes Clarkhurst)
The Hartford Courant, July 17, 1930:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4kKn7DSFBXJi6CntwNyhZ7.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fcf7f518-88a6-4302-bbd5-d6c5253ea87b)
Salmon Brook is sold in 1943:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bDtiQfGL7CpT15ewtaiQCP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1e588a31-f0be-44dc-a56e-49ad6dcb1630)
Attempt to resurrect Salmon Brook in 1963:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_izNZutgUxCcQmrcDRgujfG.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fd428b23-d7ac-4f6f-863b-627f357dd897)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dB5DQFXbKd2cvxpuELDm7s.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b25ea3c8-2f11-4548-a0c6-6c8a35441db7)
1934 Aerial showing eastern portion of the course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qnjj3hNq8eF7ERf1XRgDbt.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3bbebf0a-d910-4f24-82f1-a31d8f395722)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing western portion of the course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rPbsQ6hvsWufYNoNQfckrb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d43ab257-7bf7-445f-9a91-a4fb4d925e75)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial (36-Hole Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5703.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/efed2b8d-337c-493a-b63f-2a55b1812a7f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Sharon Country Club-Sharon, CT
9 Holes, 2,600 Yards, Par 34: 1929 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Unknown. Established in 1900.
Sharon Country Club has been around since the turn of the last century. The club still exists on the same piece of property they’ve used since 1900, gradually expanding their borders as the club continued to grow. Sharon’s golf course has been reconfigured on several occasions with very little information on who did the work. In 1929, there was a report that eight of the nine holes would be redesigned, but no information on the architect was provided. The layout we see in 1934 is likely the result of that work.
Today’s holes 6, 7, 8 and 9 still follow the 1934 routing and design closely. The first 5 holes have been completely redesigned since 1934. Today’s 1st, 4th and 5th holes were added sometime between 1934 and 1956. The 5th hole was shifted slightly to the south of the 1934 version, playing to a new green site. Today’s 2nd and 3rd holes were added on new property between 1956 and 1969. The club believes Al Zikorus did the work on today’s 2nd and 3rd holes.
Sharon Country Club is set high in the hills with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The club maintains a 3-hole practice course near the clubhouse, using the land from their 1900 course. The golf course is currently being renovated by Matt Dusenberry, who has reinstated the center-line hazard on the 6th hole (missing in the modern aerial). He has also been expanding the greens and made additional modifications to improve the playability of the golf course. A few of the greens are very interesting, including the Par 3, 4th hole which was built sometime after 1934.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bgsuwBAY8zZpECtwaQ6Zoq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/51624916-3853-4b29-9c30-cff3b1ca3925)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same area as 1934.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6352.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/435e6795-2479-46fe-ab84-44588829decf)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 9-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5854.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/6f9a8d1f-7e4c-4356-95e4-504151eaf73a)
Shennecossett Golf Course-Groton, CT. FKA Shenecossett Country Club.
18 Holes, 6,512 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Donald Ross in 1914. Redesigned by Donald Ross in 1919.
Established in 1898.
Golf at Shennecossett dates back to 1898. The 1899 Golf Guide lists Eastern Point Golf Club as the only golf course in Groton. The entry suggests that Tom Bendelow laid out the course. The following year, the club was referred to as the Shenecossett Golf Club and the entry reiterated that the course was laid out by Tom Bendelow in September 1898. In 1905, Morton Plant began building his great hotel called The Griswold along the shore of the Thames River. The Shenecosset Country Club would eventually become associated with Morton Plant and The Griswold Hotel.
In 1914 Plant provided a clubhouse which greatly increased the course's popularity. Plant also hired Donald Ross around 1914 to design an up-to-date 18-hole golf course on the property. When Ross was finished, the course measured 6,020 yards. In 1918 Morton Plant died and the hotel and golf course begin to operate under new management. Donald Ross was called back to Shenecossett in 1919 to make a few modifications to the routing which extended the course to 6,215 yards. By 1926, the course had been lengthened to 6,512 yards. The golf course and clubhouse were taken over by the Town of Groton in the late 1960's and opened up to the general public as a municipal golf course. The golf course remained unchanged until 1997 when the Town of Groton agreed to a land swap with their neighbor Pfizer.
In the late 1990's, Mark Mungeam was hired to design three new holes on the property that once housed the Griswold Hotel. He built today's 15th, 16th and 17th holes to replace Ross' original 5th, 6th and 7th holes. Mungeam modified today's 5th and 8th holes on the front nine, while adding a new Par 3, 9th hole. On the 5th hole, Mungeam created a Par 5 by extending a previous Ross hole from the tee and leaving the Ross green. On the 8th hole, Mungeam added yardage by combining a Ross Par 5 with a Ross Par 3 to make a longer Par 5. He shifted the hole and built a new green for today's 8th, which ultimately eliminated two Ross greens. On the back nine Mungeam built the three holes mentioned earlier while making alterations to Ross' 18th hole. Mungeam changed the 18th into a Par 5 by extending the tee and adding a new green. Ross' original 18th green still exists on the property. Today this green is used as a chipping/practice green near the clubhouse.
Borrowing a few images from Sven’s Ross thread.
Early story on the Donald Ross golf course. The Day., July 11, 1914:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6316.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ad92cce0-8951-422e-bd19-7114bd6a107e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6317.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d3fc9f99-535f-49c4-9109-53fa3edc3452)
Link to the City of Groton’s scorecard collection:
https://www.groton-ct.gov/departments/parksrec/shenny/historical_scorecard_gallery.php (https://www.groton-ct.gov/departments/parksrec/shenny/historical_scorecard_gallery.php)
Early Photos from the Course.
USGA Golf Bulletin., 1915
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6318.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/2307c6ad-500c-4ac0-bdbc-67f8053d431c)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ptunhs5Bn13JmRxj59rM61.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ec3d65fd-392e-4327-b598-4a613dd22cbb)
1919 Course Layout:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6319.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/845f0be6-565a-4643-aa02-9eafc2a2dcd9)
Oblique Aerial showing 3 of the holes lost in the 1990’s (lower left)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6339_my88BRu1Z6q6PyEJhxLB5z.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/5778c322-732a-41fd-8b1c-bf8ac98583dc)
1920 American Annual Golf Guide Cover Advertisement:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jE9NhgUvU9dp7CoZpH5MCQ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8c026ee8-fbb5-4ccf-9d4d-7dde070fc949)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6QFiRALZv3qCo7Q6NWMtLX.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5a460f70-bf74-4e80-8203-58444a6d12ad)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing the same area as 1934.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6353.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6a6a857a-cd53-4202-8270-9f1996543acd)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 18-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5855.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e281069d-bbb7-43d5-a29f-4ef5e1a4154c)
1938 Aerial showing hurricane damage to The Griswold Hotel.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_a3Gkkuu9uYKmsS29tySgBx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/36fc7ce0-5d6e-4ae4-b40c-fbdec7dc0355)
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Bret-I’m a fan of Shennecossett as you know but it’s somewhat painful to look at the original routing versus what’s there now. Despite getting the land across the street in the Pfizer swap with the water on the perimeter the new holes don’t measure up.
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Shorehaven Golf Club-Norwalk, CT
18 Holes, 6,350 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Willie Park Jr./Robert White. Established in 1924.
Shorehaven was established in 1924. As early as 1922, Willie Park was hired by the club to design an 18-hole golf course. By late 1923, it was reported that Robert White had taken over development of the Shorehaven course. Willie Park had become ill and had returned to Scotland before passing away. By 1924 the course was completed under Robert White’s supervision and opened for play.
Shorehaven’s routing in the 1934 aerial is very intact today. Today’s 18th hole has been narrowed down by a driving range which borrowed some of the 18th hole’s land. The tees have been extended to add some length, but the core of the routing and many of the greens appear to be in their original form.
Willie Park at Shorehaven:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender(19).jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b90b51ea-414e-4a92-847b-394500617ff1)
An article from late 1923 noting Robert White is developing the course after Willie Park became incapacitated:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jdDHUTqZTSArsu1Yqz4n81.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/73d659eb-4ace-4afd-825a-927e910a70a8)
Old Postcard photo:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6388.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ec66e2e5-b397-4b72-a2eb-9c1950fa9d25)
1924 Article on Shorehaven Golf Club.
Golf Illustrated., September 1925:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_m2eM73ssm1CJYtJm93815L.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1549c037-1c76-45e3-8061-800de420a407)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pYryEsdLPZndjC7CWJ9Ezo.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/efac5ae9-df9f-46d5-87a6-4233bcd64d5e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gfxJLaNEd6jVbKRHzHx6WH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/5890d0d9-86ee-4bd3-90dd-d9abc1db3e8a)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_2tfbvURUv5ju3rpvsfCukU.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e3851ff5-e8b1-46e6-85fc-7f560a23dd62)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_eYoovDHVrYPgmp2EZHVUZs.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6074d64d-f4c7-4b2e-8961-d05a5638e52b)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_xuHffcMoRiUDqPCMyBWMVQ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/742c8b41-94d7-46de-bc78-0b4a77b76647)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6384.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/da63906b-faa6-4583-b20d-92e64f865591)
Shuttle Meadow Country Club-Kensington, CT
18 Holes, 6,179 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Willie Park Jr. Established in 1916.
Shuttle Meadow was established in 1916 and is thought to be one of Willie Park’s first projects in America after his return trip to the US in 1916. Shuttle Meadow was started by members of the Maple Hill Club in New Britain. The members were looking to expand their course and found the Maple Hill site too confined. When the club moved to Shuttle Meadow, the Maple Hill Club became known as the New Britain Golf Club, but only temporarily, before the new Sequin Golf Club was formed, which today is known as Indian Hill Country Club.
According to the club’s history, Shuttle Meadow was the first golf construction project for Orrin Smith, a local New Britain resident. Orrin Smith went on to build courses for Donald Ross before he went out on his own in the early 1920’s. Smith also added nines to two other Willie Park designs in the state: Madison Country Club and Tumble Brook.
I have a strong bias towards Shuttle Meadow, because it’s one of my favorite golf courses in the state. The course is very intact compared to the 1934 aerial. The course has a very authentic feel to it. Many of the features on the course are still original to Park’s design and the greens are full of interest. No major changes have been made to this golf course in 107 years.
Old Pictures from the golf course 1954:
Hole No. 3:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_anwXH12sRTnmSMZ8oHZH52.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/3649600a-3d9f-41b5-8fdb-86a91cda43c7)
Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Libraries Turfgrass Information Center.
Hole No. 6:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8mBHb5oYFor6Jw61TZ4HHL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0b9e1502-0987-4907-b397-ddc184e2f115)
Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Libraries Turfgrass Information Center.
Hole No. 8:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_j5Yi66iPLQKTYXvABrhm6p.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/61c23ef2-0dca-4054-b9aa-e81283eae3c5)
Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Libraries Turfgrass Information Center.
Hole No. 15:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4U1yVH7ktwDKYitNNrVBF3.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/729c129e-e777-45c9-bf67-10cf03c1c538)
Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Libraries Turfgrass Information Center.
1934 Aerial showing northern section of the golf course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_hJ2MhpZqwE4W6Q3k8SnzAw.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/99cc6662-43a7-4a7e-ae46-330fdf01b93d)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same northern section:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6853.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/77451c6b-9d9b-4ec6-8e30-2ab553a1aa3f)
1934 Aerial showing southern section of the golf course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gVuK7KMJgG3Ce5W8DrWfWJ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/454debd4-9666-4798-b306-a806fb33a8d0)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same southern section:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6854.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/7672bd90-f78a-42fe-acaa-5a321960490b)
1934 Aerial (Full-Course)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kk4fVBr9KHrfKBKk77znLW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/305313ed-ec8f-48aa-ae55-dfc958e10318)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing 18-hole course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6855.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/68e7fdc7-4e6c-4d00-bf68-9f6190a8289f)
Silver Spring Country Club-Ridgefield, CT
No listing in 1930-1931. 18 Holes.
Designed by Robert White. Established in 1930.
Silver Spring Country Club was established in 1930. Prior to Silver Spring, Ridgefield had a golf course called the Country Club of Ridgefield, which was one of the earliest member clubs of the USGA. Once Silver Spring was opened in 1932, the Country Club of Ridgefield went out of existence.
Silver Spring is a bit of a mystery concerning who designed the golf course. Robert White is given credit for the design and was noted in an article as the designer of the course after the course was built. However, anyone that has stepped foot on the property thinks the course looks more like a Charles Banks design with massively built-up green pads and flat bottom bunkers set well below the surfaces. No evidence has been found suggesting Banks was there, but the timing certainly fits.
The aerial shows the Silver Spring golf course just after it had been completed. The front nine looked finished, while the back nine holes were still coming along. The routing is very much intact today. One major change to the course occurred in the 1950's when Alfred Tull rerouted the 11th hole into a longer dogleg hole which connected back to the original 11th green. In the process, Tull created more room near the clubhouse to provide the club with a larger parking lot. The course appears to be in the middle of a restoration right now, with many trees being cleared on the property and greens expanded back out to their edges.
Country of Ridgefield Goes Out of Existence in 1932. The story refers to Silvermine? The story is likely talking about Silver Spring.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_oxLAxdbGrPi1bSNnbJhztJ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/85ed4a7d-6861-41af-95e9-ce3136ba7478)
Partial routing of the golf course from 1957. (The holes in the middle are cut off in the scan).
Golfdom., July 1957:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6401.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ea7733bf-2c9e-453b-b01b-43ea968f2be2)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6402.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/96a7339c-12da-4ce2-84c5-db01adffd618)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_w7u5KSyQNdtGnTrziYNXSG.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d42d4563-f6bb-446b-aa0e-a49ec6f83f0d)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5859.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/767e342b-0241-4cca-91ba-ab18447a8350)
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Bret-I’m a fan of Shennecossett as you know but it’s somewhat painful to look at the original routing versus what’s there now. Despite getting the land across the street in the Pfizer swap with the water on the perimeter the new holes don’t measure up.
Tim,
I agree about Race Brook in your earlier post and Shennecossett. The sad thing about Shennecossett is the parking lot is hardly ever used for parking cars. Every time I have ever been to the golf course I have never seen the parking lot even 1/4 full. The aerials show the same thing. The setting by the water is nice, there aren’t a lot of courses I’ve seen a submarine pop out of the water while you’re lining up a putt, but it’s hard to measure up to the Ross originals.
An epiphany I had when researching Shennecossett is the spelling. Today the course name has two “n”’s. Back when it was a country club the name only had one “n”.
Shenecossett
vs.
Shennecossett
Bret
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Bret-I’m a fan of Shennecossett as you know but it’s somewhat painful to look at the original routing versus what’s there now. Despite getting the land across the street in the Pfizer swap with the water on the perimeter the new holes don’t measure up.
Tim,
I agree about Race Brook in your earlier post and Shennecossett. The sad thing about Shennecossett is the parking lot is hardly ever used for parking cars. Every time I have ever been to the golf course I have never seen the parking lot even 1/4 full. The aerials show the same thing. The setting by the water is nice, there aren’t a lot of courses I’ve seen a submarine pop out of the water while you’re lining up a putt, but it’s hard to measure up to the Ross originals.
An epiphany I had when researching Shennecossett is the spelling. Today the course name has two “n”’s. Back when it was a country club the name only had one “n”.
Shenecossett
vs.
Shennecossett
Bret
Bret-I think about 15-17(new holes) after every play and wonder why Mark Mungeam didn’t incorporate more movement into those greens and surrounds. The 16th with it’s green sitting above the water where Long Island Sound converges with the Thames River could have been a special hole with some more creativity.
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Sleeping Giant Golf Course-Hamden, CT. FKA Giant Valley Country Club.
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by Ralph Barton. Established in 1925.
Giant Valley Country Club was established in 1925. The name changed to Sleeping Giant Golf Course around 1951 when William Mitchell leased the land and revived the golf course after the course had been closed for 10 years.
Ralph Barton gets the credit for the design of this golf course, although we don’t have any information to verify when he was there. A Biarritz hole appears in this 1934 aerial which would align with Barton’s work. (This hole was discussed earlier in the thread). William Mitchell redesigned several holes in 1951 and rebuilt all of the greens. The course has been reworked on several occasions since Mitchell’s tenure. There may be one or two similar green sites and a few shared corridors compared to 1934, but little of the 1934 golf course remains.
William Mitchell leases and refurbishes Giant Valley Golf Course in 1951:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7BPXNV6yB8VzHfXPfT4T1Z.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/bff2d306-891d-4c60-86ca-59352a8c5950)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_po8VxaBFRK45eRA6ruyuGD.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/079dfc37-17d0-4e12-a91e-210bdd2cd315)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qndGogTXypQmAPbL5pRBYZ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8d7309a6-81b4-41fa-b117-edd6393f122f)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same area as 1934:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6408.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/00452a1e-d37a-4ae6-b210-73db3f8ef275)
Modern Aerial showing today’s full course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5866.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b055876b-f1df-4abb-9ab7-37704e9a35fe)
Southington Country Club-Southington, CT
9 Holes, 3,008 Yards, Par 35: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1922.
Southington Country Club was established in 1922. The club started with nine holes and a small clubhouse on the same piece of property they own today. The club added more land to the east and nine additional holes in the 1960’s to create an 18-hole course. I’m not entirely sure who designed either nine at Southington. The front nine of today’s course appears to closely follow the routing of the original nine in 1934.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9K567kDVptsbpU7btSMbf8.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/aa207568-81e0-4b0b-ad95-316c99fba907)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same areas as 1934.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6407.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/212191fb-ca40-40db-8e38-b78acfb9ed6b)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 18-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5860.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/e8a33003-40ae-4319-9194-cff14e511539)
The Stafford Golf Company-Stafford Springs, CT (NLE) FKA Stafford Golf Club, Stafford Country Club.
9 Holes, 2,223 Yards, Par 32:1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Robert D. Pryde in 1920- 9 holes. John Shippen in 1898-6 holes.
Established in 1898.
The Stafford Golf Company was established in 1898 as the Stafford Country Club. According to several early sources John Shippen laid out a 6-hole course for the club in 1898. The club played on this 6-hole course until Robert Pryde designed a nine-hole course in 1920. We have yet to confirm whether the club went through with Pryde’s plan or not, but Stafford did end up with a 9-hole course by 1934. This course went out of existence in 1941. The land is mostly wooded today with a small portion developed.
John Shippen would have been 18 years old in 1898 when he designed the Stafford Country Club’s 6-hole course. More information on John Shippen can be found here:
https://www.johnshippenmemorialgolffoundation.com/history (https://www.johnshippenmemorialgolffoundation.com/history)
Robert Pryde’s plan for a nine-hole course is approved by the Stafford Golf Company:
Norwich Bulletin., December 14, 1920:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9ggYGeVDJUTTfVGC5nc5no.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/95cede73-9e5f-437b-b0d2-357d8d6ad1e8)
The final season for Stafford (1940):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rKLESufJUvNuw19kqcvfA2.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ca6346a2-9c23-404a-bdfa-d79cd60d93be)
The course closes for good in 1941:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uLXaSMb5cGMqYJYgq7AP2h.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6e71ee82-fde7-4c1f-818f-839b5d891667)
The club’s land is sold off:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9LXMXQ4bvs2QGkeLemmz7t.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/49c6db14-b8da-4339-88b6-3ae3e12a4d0b)
One last attempt to bring the course back in 1981:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fAVtTPNPwBzfHffnUqeiCG.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e62a9fe3-741a-472c-8465-36ac6612f18c)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_srXgSWermPb6ciA2cCVZm4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b5ddd25b-5299-4ded-919c-7cdf2bd24fd3)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Stanley Golf Course-New Britain, CT
No listing in 1930-1931.
Designed by Robert J. Ross. Established in 1930.
Stanley Golf Course was established in 1930. Alix W. Stanley donated over 400 acres of land to the city for the purpose of building a municipal golf course. Stanley was very generous to his hometown of New Britain. He was an early member at Maple Hill and later a member at Shuttle Meadow Country Club. Alix Stanley was the President of the Stanley Rule and Level Co. before it was absorbed by The Stanley Works in 1920, which is known today as Stanley/Black and Decker.
Robert J. Ross designed an 18-hole golf course for the City of New Britain, with the first nine holes opening in 1930. The second nine holes opened within the next few seasons. (18 holes are visible on the 1934 aerial) In 1957-1958 nine additional holes were added to give the city a 27-hole golf course. The nine additional holes were originally planned by Orrin Smith.
Since Smith’s addition, the course has been rerouted on several occasions to accommodate the driving range and the parcel of land sold off to the north. Today’s course has little in common with what we see in 1934. There are 27-holes today and only a few original green sites and corridors still exist.
Robert J. Ross plan for New Britain Municipal Golf Course is approved. This article includes the bids of Ross, Orrin Smith, Stiles & Van Kleek and Woodworth Bradley:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5ceG4QY8CzfdTo7aMhwFgm.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/46caa245-b5b6-40f2-954e-019bfd300655)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_aZg4hFF6qZUScS8gcQ4Vkz.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fb073d49-b630-49c9-ac3b-9071646321a7)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kL9K52y6BtbkqAksGcP91U.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8c59ce7a-7f9a-4400-9555-f907da4afa5b)
Ground is broken on the New Britain Municipal Golf Course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_hLqXiBRpU3jkg2aTot8WM1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fdde085d-eded-420b-bb46-b705f49c9138)
First nine holes of the golf course is opened in 1930.
The Hartford Courant., August 24th, 1930. “Mayor Tees Off To Open New Course”:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_u4oDr34w17yWStZexis5rk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4cab40ac-40f8-44f6-b625-7e1ecd55e032)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8ZyG97WiYj6GJ18ArSxFzp.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/542400af-a951-4907-8778-0264f5d3b908)
1948 City plans for nine-hole addition:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sfkBz4HwUhvYK3SpoEbRNP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4e2054c4-9f95-4593-825e-0181e7908aa0)
1955 The City hires Orrin Smith:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fF62NzuTXEWH4xN7CiwmQZ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/df12df10-95f8-4cdb-a3c6-7ac6ca0ec0ee)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3utFTjpDMVs82q9pgx1z1A.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c78e743c-267d-469c-b182-03ac87b88e85)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing the same area as 1934:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6441.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/51247786-9107-4976-b4cc-2601e5278587)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 27-hole course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5861.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f110a7cd-17e1-4368-8386-90f5c73ae5ea)
Stonington Manor Inn Golf Course-Stonington, CT (NLE)
9 Holes, 3,020 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Maurice Kearney. Established in 1925.
Stonington Manor Inn Golf Course was established in 1925. The nine-hole golf course was laid out by Maurice Kearney. Maurice Kearney has been associated with a few Robert J. Ross designs earlier in this thread, but I haven’t seen Ross’ name mentioned in relation to Stonington.
In 1959, former Stonington Manor pro Wendelll Ross designed and built the 18-hole Pequot Golf Course in Stonington, which may have led to the eventual demise of the Manor course. Stonington Manor survived until the early 1970’s when the club was disbanded, and the land was sold off to a real estate group. Shortly after the purchase, the land was developed into residential housing.
Stonington Manor was designed by Maurice Kearney (bottom paragraph):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_719wKFKRkYC7r3riicb9QC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/572cfd11-4096-4cfe-816e-13d076f36229)
Another mention of Kearney at Stonington, including a few other jobs he has worked on:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6460.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e34174e0-b3c4-40dd-87b2-542b5d77b145)
Stonington Manor land is purchased by real estate agents in 1973:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gtg36HM9vMXkx9H6CyQJ3p.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6814dfeb-117c-4ff3-aebf-e5978e76b410)
Stonington Manor’s land is developed, starting in 1975:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_d9XpJp9W4VxU1au4VCxUT8.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0c319af7-2fe5-4011-9d7b-09affcc8f513)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9F2xbrEmHaZhxnpvuqB4DX.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/88b26d73-0fd1-4678-9594-d0360bfcb036)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Suffield Country Club-Suffield, CT
9 holes, 3,070 yards, Par 36: Modern Scorecard
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1927.
Suffield Country Club was established in 1927. The nine-hole golf course was designed by Orrin Smith and opened for play in 1927. Today’s course follows the same Orrin Smith routing we see in 1934. The biggest change to the course was the addition of a pond on today’s 8th hole. Other than that, the course has made very few changes over the years and many of the greens appear to be original. Suffield Country Club has been working on restoring their course over the last few years. The club has been making gradual improvements to the golf course while keeping the original design intact.
Suffield Country Club is planned:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rfDtR2F2jkR2GwpZnZZ4B9.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/30563a92-4c2e-4606-9138-6c7df35f2cf2)
Suffield Country Club golf course scheduled to be ready in July or August of 1927:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_cH4sSV5ZGgesXpRvNsYnb2.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/03dace38-0f71-4226-99a2-f3f7ed757df0)
Suffield Country Club hires Lawrence Grant as their golf professional, from the Isle of Wight:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9WgW2bVTg5EURLaNPTG4LT.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b5ef39e4-3b9c-49a5-8514-266d919e5338)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gDrY3P3ToyH7rYcLFLp499.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/2b0484ac-c153-420f-a52a-db53a508211d)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5867.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a4e4f9e4-b039-4043-8800-9ba96b8136b0)
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Sunset Ridge Country Club-East Hartford, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1930.
Sunset Ridge Country Club experienced a very short life span. The club’s nine-hole golf course was designed by Orrin Smith and opened in September of 1930. Sunset Ridge survived for only seven years before falling into foreclosure. In 1940, the club’s former land was sold off and developed into housing.
Sunset Ridge golf course is expected to open in August 1930.
The Hartford Courant., March 27, 1930:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8uwrTbsKgrPpQHtyRJsrcJ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6383a91c-a45a-465b-8a4b-aef43d3d3eac)
Sunset Ridge Formal Opening-September 27, 1930:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4WH5L7YwBWdtHe7vEWKsuC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/13417aba-1f65-43a2-b29a-8157987b3f69)
Sunset Ridge land sold off in 1940:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6458.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6f9f5d98-06d9-432a-b4d4-104fa6519a1e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dNB1fQBvFAuLx11W61mSau.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/26b6550d-3fc3-48d4-9663-c27ce83bfbba)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5wFv179eHxfGHAZESkP6m5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d9af01c8-15d8-4a23-9822-023665fc7bc1)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Tamarack Country Club-Greenwich, CT
18 Holes, Par 71
Designed by Charles H. Banks. Established in 1929.
Tamarack Country Club was started by members of the Port Chester Country Club in nearby Port Chester, New York. Port Chester Country Club was established in 1912. The club spent seventeen years in New York before moving to Greenwich, CT in 1929. The club sold off a portion of their original property to the town, providing a large enough site to build a high school. The original Port Chester course opened to the public for a few seasons after Tamarack was completed.
Tamarack Country Club was designed by Charles Banks, opening for play on July 4, 1929. The routing appears to be very similar to what we see in 1934. The clubhouses footprint has expanded, but it hasn’t really intruded on the golf course. Many bunkers were gradually eliminated or reduced starting in the 1960’s. An effort has been made to restore the course over the past two decades.
Early clubhouse photo.
The Daily Press., July 09, 1929:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_84VkowRefYUHQSjmmeRKsi.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/5346cc47-5c83-495c-9715-20a831ed0552)
Port Chester Country Club buys land in 1928:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_oLmgQ4dGitViZyXena1yBr.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6b3e8bd6-f817-45bd-9c20-d3515fb3299b)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6od4RJr4PYrT2BUm7acwnS.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/efc6aeb7-46a5-4bc9-b595-6a0c6e9af479)
Charles Banks has four steam shovels working on the Tamarack golf course.
The National Greenkeeper., September 1928:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_sM7dhaoQaDSxAZPK1GeGBP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ad0e5e1a-bd0d-4cfe-b305-dfc263539491)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nBW14BM5UrB1cWAtP81gTg.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/20df036f-e3b2-4dcc-987d-fcbc4ba74159)
Tamarack Country Club formally opened on July 4, 1929:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_xbQh8MDSmT6qheDTMTCbtf.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/aa975a3c-fd9b-4db7-8e2d-7b0d4608673a)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_vmcRSCwxaBdQZSku84FA5p.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/19a8827b-9fc1-420f-ad0d-bf33cc06477b)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6465.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/3d8c0c67-bdd2-4b8e-9556-5b090abe02a4)
A few extra aerials.
1926 Westchester County Aerial- Showing property prior to Tamarack Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fiDpDvzgyXrmMP7fVvTvQL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fc5301f4-ce29-40cb-bd56-df833fef33b5)
The Historical Aerial Photography Collection of Westchester County, Department of Planning, 1926.
1935 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kVMwbbfhGmEQkRBVapPa3S.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f8ef3d13-da85-4b6d-bc69-eef5f7ec6b83)
Tamarack Country Club.
1940 Westchester County Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gMTnPX9E4zBTcMm1vonQPa.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c5d59fd5-5a08-4224-b297-d5f891c64b39)
The Historical Aerial Photography Collection of Westchester County, Department of Planning, 1940.
Terre Haute Golf Course- Bethel, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in: Unknown.
This course was brought to my attention by Vinnie Kmetz in Replies 87 and 101. He provided the location of the golf course and the link below along with additional information about the course. The link below includes more information about the course with photographs of each hole.
https://www.bethelgrapevine.com/articles/terre-haute-golf-course- (https://www.bethelgrapevine.com/articles/terre-haute-golf-course-)
The golf course started as a private estate course, but the exact year and designer are unknown. The course became public in the 1960’s before closing sometime in the 1980’s.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6tSyMGapKLusMt8sdtzCrS.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/391867c0-d6ff-4dbc-a557-c1f0e1875884)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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The Cedars Country Club-Lakeville, CT (NLE) FKA Wonoka Country Club
9 Holes, 2,963 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1924.
I don’t have a lot of information on the Cedars Country Club golf course. The Golf Guides from the 1920’s list the course as the Wonoka Country Club. The course was part of a resort that sat on the shores of Lake Wononpakook, now called Long Pond by the locals. The camp was referred to as The Cedars, Cedar Hill, Cedars Cottages and Camp Cedars. The resort was very popular throughout the 1930’s and 1940’s. The club suffered major damage from the Flood of 1955, putting an end to the resort and the golf course.
Old postcard photo of the Cedars Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_tQV7Nd2L6iedMVWdeC6fT1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d4d264f0-ee9e-4b89-9189-c8c8edf49f54)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ed8fPJChcRRNCRhrioHxm4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/77a2863a-679a-4339-b083-a5191eeda2bb)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Torrington Country Club-Goshen, CT
18 Holes in 1934. 9 Holes, 3,150, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1929.
Torrington Country Club was established in 1929. Orrin Smith designed an 18-hole golf course that opened for play in 1930. This design is likely one of Orrin Smith’s greatest accomplishments. The club has a very good grasp on their history and have always been proud of their Golden Age, Orrin Smith design.
Torrington has stayed true to their original design for over 90 years. The layout we see today follows the same routing as 1934. The severely sloping fourth green has been rebuilt twice in the last 30 years to accommodate faster green speeds. Other than the fourth green, all of the greens are still in their original locations. The club has removed some sand traps over the years, mostly in the fairways. The sand has been grassed over, but the mounding Smith left around the bunkers still remains. Torrington is another course I have a strong affinity for. Torrington was the best course in the area growing up and I have always been drawn to the club and its history.
Construction photos:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6513.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d54391a8-ca35-419d-a455-6a92391b1f59)
Torrington Country Club.
Orrin Smith’s Layout for Torrington Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/0E84F0A1-6891-4668-A4C2-EFF276440266_zpshwiwzgyf.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e12c9f0e-f995-4273-b08e-bbf511f6aac0)
Torrington Country Club.
Modern photo of the 8th green:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/C299C682-96B2-4506-8D64-75289C2A8665_zpsybf7lueu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f58c3935-078c-4a19-8b91-cee5c6e05774)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_qiBFn8TuGxxZZMfUCDoKGq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3f6a4ba5-a84e-40e1-8b85-df3f08e1d709)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5869.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3bc5f0d8-47b6-4b16-9ef3-fb465a493a9f)
Tumble Brook Country Club-Bloomfield, CT
9 Holes, 3,120 Yards, Par 37: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Willie Park Jr. Established in 1922.
Tumble Brook Country Club was established in 1922. The club started with a nine-hole Willie Park Jr. design, which is what we see in the 1934 aerial. Today, the club has 27-holes. All three nines have been designed by different architects. Park built the first nine in 1922. Orrin Smith and William Mitchell built the second nine holes in 1948 and George Fazio added the third nine in the 1970’s.
The Willie Park holes have been mixed with the George Fazio holes to make up today’s front nine and extra nine. Today’s front nine uses five Willie Park holes (1-3 and 8-9) with four George Fazio holes (4-7). The back nine includes all nine of the Orrin Smith holes. The third nine uses the remaining four Willie Park holes (his original 4-7) with the remaining five George Fazio holes.
The Willie Park routing we see in 1934 remains mostly intact. The holes have lost some width over the years and the greens appear more modern than some of the other Willie Park greens in the state. The course is wonderfully situated, close to the city of Hartford.
Willie Park’s nine-hole course opens in 1924:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_oZQzHQeHE22K46CpjNqL7D.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/41bcf935-3f24-4713-9c95-d374e8a375af)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_hQtHLve31GuSzfEeRqGrLA.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/226de8b7-f35d-40df-b89b-94ef556ca7dd)
In 1946, Dick Wilson looked over the property to add nine holes:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_mukFWQNH2dHmgo75FQaaKc.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a7b54d69-b4b8-4a94-8185-194077829ec6)
In 1947 Orrin Smith and William Mitchell start work on the 2nd nine holes:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ev9PJRn2mGg2jemLYDqHrV.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d5d986dd-5088-40ac-ae27-6a739f31d8a5)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7M1vhc5TXmZjFvM2NYc6ru.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4e731595-0811-43fc-9617-c17232c163bf)
In 1969 George Fazio adds the third nine:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_krT9ZF5XgzCfH4PQWfzU5S.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fcfe9cd0-38f2-4e74-a6e6-e8cea11ef1d4)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3ZDY3xjXjjHpG2zRekk3Mq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0b55bfd9-0943-4a5d-8628-72958949a4e3)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6P5G34T3VsTfsZuCCjuRsL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/ad732642-97d7-4209-893b-d4084cbc7fa4)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing the same area as 1934:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6512.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b28d975d-2a21-48fb-b293-7ba1da8c42f9)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 27-hole golf course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5870.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/4257a313-9886-443a-9a76-b7986544d4e2)
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Wallingford Country Club-Wallingford, CT. FKA-Wallingford Golf Club
18 Holes, 5,195 Yards, Par 67:1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
9 Holes, 2,750 Yards, Par 34: 1925 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1898.
Wallingford Country Club is one of the oldest clubs in the state, dating back to 1898. The club was formerly known as the Wallingford Golf Club, but only for a short time. The club’s original property was located between Constitution and Center Streets very near the property we see in 1934. I have no information regarding when the club moved or who designed the course. The Annual Golf Guides from 1926-1931 listed the course as an 18-hole course, but I can only see nine holes on the 1934 aerial.
Of the nine holes we see in the 1934 aerial, six holes still exist in today’s course. The two holes closest to the (1934) clubhouse were eliminated when the clubhouse and parking lot were expanded. The third hole removed was a Par 3 that still exists in the driving range. Today’s 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 16th, 17th and 18th holes still follow the general routing of their counterparts in 1934. Today’s 16th hole has been shortened to a Par 3 and both the 16th and 17th greens have been rebuilt/moved.
The remaining holes on today’s course (east of Woodhouse Avenue) were built sometime after 1934. Today’s 4th and 5th hole along with holes 9-15 were built around 1937 when the club purchased new land. In the early 1960’s, Al Zikorus added today’s 6th, 7th and 8th holes. Zikorus also rebuilt several greens while updating the course.
Start of the Wallingford Golf Club in 1898:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_d54d2TQdr1po7wgM4nmUUt.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ec0605fb-64c9-4d64-b533-d09ae609e406)
Wallingford plans to extend their course in 1937. (Sent to me from Sven)
Meriden Journal., April 22, 1937:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6566.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/15a3c8e3-c047-4d29-b02d-95ce2339ab57)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9CtRHvL7XwUogXcHG2te2Z.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/fd520431-84b5-490d-8f84-1c12888d2ac9)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing the same area as 1934.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6539.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/71f44aea-14a8-4aa2-83d4-609f94258d5b)
Modern aerial showing today’s 18-hole golf course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5871.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d5ae2b88-4343-4e4e-8e49-c7ee3c8c7342)
Wampanoag Country Club-West Hartford, CT
18 Holes, 6,530 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Donald Ross. Established in 1924.
Wampanoag Country Club was established in 1924. The 18-hole golf course was designed by Donald Ross. The first nine holes were ready for play in 1925, with the second nine following one year later. In 1934 the club hired William Flynn to make suggestions to enhance the course. I am unaware whether the club went through with any of his suggestions. The club has made several tweaks to the course over the years, which recently warranted a complete restoration/renovation. The club is currently working with Tyler Rae to restore the course. The modern aerial below is before Tyler Rae’s work was started.
The course appears to follow the same routing and share many of the original green sites. The bunkering is the biggest difference between the two aerials. The fourth green was shifted to the left and rebuilt in the early 1960’s. Other than the fourth green, the green surfaces feel authentic and have long been the highlight of the golf course.
The club buys land in 1924.
The Hartford Courant., April 08, 1924:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gTE6nUhpWrPdCxgH4m18Ha.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/21c828b4-6d99-4fa1-b99d-8cd57ddb5242)
An early match on the course in May 1925.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ftJSwTR2eaQLEmCgyCUPqH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8ddd0c8b-d7ee-4565-b3b9-7ad17697e4bc)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_shxaAh9ELKbw1pyn4YUo8F.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/137a0def-8170-4d8d-afea-872bb9a0fece)
Article written by the foreman who took over as greenkeeper when the course was completed.
The National Greenkeeper., May 1928
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pc4fZwLJuZTk1e1uTg9pD2.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8d7db65e-b448-4d11-8339-22d4ce40cd7d)
For the entire story and a clearer view click the link below:
https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/ngktc/article/1928may11.pdf (https://archive.lib.msu.edu/tic/ngktc/article/1928may11.pdf)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_41RAys5hrUjrhRZDTR8sBp.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5dc299ef-ddc5-496b-9515-967622167c40)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5872.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5367902f-402d-418c-a174-22a1ba8cbf5d)
Washington Golf Club-Washington, CT
9 Holes, 2,965 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1896.
Washington Golf Club was established in 1896, when the club’s original nine-hole golf course was laid out by F. E. Heath. Tom Bendelow visited the club in 1898 and redesigned the nine-hole Heath layout. After 1901 our information on this course dwindles. According to the club’s history, the course we see in 1934 is on a different site than the 1898 Tom Bendelow course. The club moved sites in the early 1910’s, the exact date I have yet to confirm. David Johnson is the architect who was given credit on the original list, but I have yet to find any information relating to the architect of this course. David Johnson was the greenkeeper in 1930-1931, however that is the only reference I have seen to him at Washington.
The course follows the same routing today as we see in 1934. The fourth hole appears to have a new alternate green in addition to the original fourth green. The fifth green looks like it has been rebuilt/moved, but the core of the design is still intact. In 1964, Al Zikorus was hired by the club, but I don’t know the extent of his work.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_hY4Z7GQfR1DdaztV8VYefT.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7556f3d8-f671-47a4-b0d8-7d47e2839c13)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5873.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/00b39509-6a7f-4d94-98f3-9d9aedc1e7bf)
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Watertown Golf Club-Watertown, CT. AKA Taft School Golf Course
18 Holes, 6,205 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Seth Raynor- 9 Holes (NLE), Unknown- 9 Holes. Established in 1915.
Watertown Golf Club has played golf on or near the Taft School property since 1894. The rudimentary links were moved around the first several years of existence before a course was established on the school property in 1900. As early as 1898, Harley Fish Roberts was the President of the Watertown Golf Club. Harley Roberts was Horace Taft’s right-hand man at Taft School. Horace Taft was President William Howard Taft’s older brother and the founder and Headmaster of the Taft School.
Today’s club observes their year of incorporation as 1915. In 1922, Seth Raynor was hired to redesign the current nine-hole golf course to start and end at the school. The golf course was reconstructed in pieces over the period of 1923, 1924 and 1925. The Raynor course was only in the ground for about four years before changes were made to the nine holes. In 1929, a new nine was constructed to the north of the property. The designer of this nine remains unknown.
When the new nine holes were built Seth Raynor’s 6th hole, a Biarritz was removed. Raynor’s 3rd and 5th holes were modified, playing to new greens by 1930. Over the years, as the school grew, the Raynor holes located near the school began to disappear as new buildings took their place. Once the school turned co-ed, the majority of the Raynor’s holes were removed in place of athletic fields. William Mitchell was responsible for a redesign of the course in the 1950’s adding a Punchbowl Par 3 that still exists as a practice hole near the clubhouse. In the 1970’s the club decided to purchase new land north of their current property. The club purchased enough land for an eighteen-hole course, but thus far has only built nine new holes. The new nine was designed by Geoffrey Cornish and William Robinson. Cornish and Robinson rebuilt a few greens on the old nine to add length to the course.
Once Cornish was finished, the final Raynor hole was removed from the routing. Today’s course consists of a modified version of the 9 holes from 1929 and 9-Cornish/Robinson holes from the 1970’s. The older nine, which the members call the “Inside Nine” is on land still owned by the Taft School today. The course we see in the 1934 aerial includes Raynor’s nine holes to the south and closer to the school along with the 1929 nine holes to the north. The clubhouse site is the same in both aerials. The sequence of holes for today's inside nine is different than 1934, but a few of the original holes remain (1,15, 16, 17). Today’s 13th and 14th hole were one hole in 1934, playing as a 600-yard Par 5/6.
Early golf club article including Mr. and Mrs. Taft:
Taft Papyrus., November 12, 1895:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rtPLq5KFeegJN333Rtjd4F.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b6afc897-138f-4bfd-868b-a348eefc1b5d)
Golf course and clubhouse (lower left) from a 1930’s Taft School brochure.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_tPELSEqV9wa6LuZmxDXnMH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a1165991-73d2-4670-a112-0a4dd5178673)
Courtesy of National Park Service. Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site.
Raynor’s nine after construction:
1927 Layout:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/D5D57A72-54E4-488F-9BC7-B9CF0D834DE7_zpsvkcz1svh.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/17afab9e-45df-4974-b659-cac43c42ad9c)
1929 Proposed Layout. (Some of these holes were not built)
Taft Papyrus., June 24, 1929
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/8E22A583-8B06-471E-ADA7-0D6AB8BD1164_zps1kfj2f4f.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/9452d9ad-cfd6-4742-857c-e42121261eb9)
An old Raynor hole abandoned in the driving range-2015. (Hole 4 on the 1927 Map)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/45C5FF23-079F-41F2-80A2-2DA96DB34D3E_zpspursnw7y.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/40baaebb-d87e-42a2-a197-99d5c65dc250)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/4445CF6A-8A5B-44C6-9F82-E94B40334ED8_zpsk4gdfgti.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f33db860-a33c-429d-9950-45ca7b1be501)
A hole was cut for a throwback tournament during the club’s 100-Year Anniversary
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/EDEF184C-3C52-46AD-92A3-4B086CB1BA4D_zpskc3v3qgl.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/95ea4e5c-f018-4099-ae32-6b4a47e58570)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ag323/bretjlawrence/E9BA08D2-33CB-47E3-8268-34C06B4C2FAA_zpsik843760.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8ade6684-f656-4581-9c39-0c3b9c9a2679)
1934 Aerial showing older Raynor nine:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gLtKBx9wmpxrDfyLXA2amW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f9161f47-4981-445b-9c8c-2ce2a7710978)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing newer Unknown nine:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_29N5gp5po8JPW5fqSGNezk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f213317d-6b00-4f76-81ee-8804e91353c8)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_cJAHW4Cb9kmJdeqWdxx22j.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/28334d37-1a9e-4122-bf49-3b1cff76ed09)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same area as 1934.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5874.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a194c52d-d75d-44e7-85c9-9b37be8249f9)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 18-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5875.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/1b792259-f5df-4bfd-be84-caf68cd4df38)
Wee Burn Country Club-Darien, CT
18 Holes, 6,388 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Devereux Emmet. Established in 1897.
Wee Burn Country Club was established in 1896 on a site in Noroton, CT. George Strath, the first professional of the club, was responsible for designing the earliest golf course at Wee Burn. In 1923 the club purchased a new piece of property to the north of their former club and hired Devereux Emmet to design an 18-hole golf course on the new land. The club moved to their new home when the Emmet golf course opened for play in 1925. The Addison Mizner designed clubhouse was completed the following year.
Today's course follows a good portion of the routing we see in 1934. The biggest changes have been to today’s 2nd, 8th and 9th holes. Today’s 2nd hole was redesigned from a straight hole into a hard dogleg with a new green site. The 8th and 9th holes were originally a Par 5 and Par 3 in Emmet’s design. Both of these holes were transformed into Par 4’s, sometime in the 1940’s. The 8th green was rebuilt and moved from the far side of the brook to the near side, shortening the hole into a Par 4. While they shortened the 8th hole, the 9th hole (which looked like a Par 3 Redan in 1934) was lengthened into a Par 4. The 1st and 17th holes, which were straight holes in 1934, have been modified into doglegs today. The bunkers have all been rebuilt within the last decade and have a modern look and placement to them. Emmet’s Par 4, 16th hole is an interesting site to see on this course. The green is completely surrounded by a small moat of water. (Where you see three greens clustered together in the right-center of the aerial, 16 is the green on the bottom.)
Wee Burn Clubhouse from: Connecticut Magazine., 1900:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6574.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/70d7f201-7c61-4ba4-8c36-3e41d8da957e)
Thank you to Sven Nilsen for providing the articles below.
Farrell, MacFarlane, Sarazen & Ryan formally open the new Wee Burn course in 1925.
Bridgeport Telegram., July 11, 1925:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/Wee_Burn_-_Bridgeport_Telegram_July_11_1925.jpeg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c4dc4da6-b289-4273-84d0-b7a19dd16f47)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/Wee_Burn_-_Bridgeport_Telegram_July_18_1925.jpeg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1993db53-020b-4245-9b78-3c47f8cdac01)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gj3Deux5E8kT9cAn9xWi4m.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/32296307-59a0-42aa-adba-2ad0e987db5e)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5876.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0c6c666c-3e2e-4a9d-adb3-c4c44873a9f5)
Westport Country Club-Westport, CT (NLE) Today the site of Birchwood Country Club
18 Holes, 6,020 Yards, Par 72: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Orrin Smith? Established in 1911.
Westport Country Club was established in 1911. I have very little information on the original course, outside of what the golf guides tell us. The club disbanded around 1942. In 1946, the land was purchased for a new golf club, which is called the Birchwood Country Club today. Birchwood was completely redesigned by Orrin Smith in 1946-1947. Smith designed a new nine-hole course using very little if any of the original Westport course in his design.
Both clubs share approximately the same land along with similar clubhouse locations. Westport Country Club consisted of 18 holes in 1934, compared to Birchwood’s 9-hole course today.
Birchwood Country Club purchases Westport's former land:
Golfdom., February 1946:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_78is5TH6g1QTaPinYbYYbu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/8fa9cb38-18f8-45ed-851c-ea51d87c7f44)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rrLzkR5Q4rUZoJCVpLNm3G.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e3f2611c-42e9-4735-8fa3-4caf61e0b48c)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_j4bjdfbzo4DDTBtEQncPhb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f7bc72ff-8322-4747-8d4d-8a7847671879)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5877.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/81276ff1-addf-4cbd-921f-60ade9f83fa4)
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Sleeping Giant Golf Course-Hamden, CT. FKA Giant Valley Country Club.
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by Ralph Barton. Established in 1925.
.
My only visit here was also my one and only attempt at a Hickory tournament...for a brief period of interest in the 80s and 90s, they hosted one of the only regular such events I've ever known. I remember it being rather plain and featureless, and thus perfect for uncommon, wild and disparate hickory golf, where basic control of the ball is at issue like it never is/was before.
It reminds me that the old kooky corners -- captured in this thread so well -- are really the communal soul of the golf regions wherein they are found. These "land that time (and capitalism) forgot" anachronisms are where young people and new golfers figure it out on their own...where recreational league golfers can slash away their twilight amusement...where seniors and couples can find a little exercise and fresh air.
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Wethersfield Country Club-Wethersfield, CT
18 Holes, 6,265 Yards, Par 71
Designed by Robert Pryde- 9 (1916). Jack Stait/Sydney Covington- 9 (1924). Front 9 redesigned by Orrin Smith (1928). Established in 1916.
Wethersfield Country Club was established in 1916. The club started with a nine-hole Robert Pryde design which opened for play in 1917. In 1924 the club purchased additional property to add nine additional holes. According to club records, Jack Stait and Sydney Covington laid out the nine new holes that opened in 1926. Jack Stait was the pro at Hartford in 1924. Sydney (Sidney) Covington was the pro at Wethersfield Country Club in 1924, formerly an assistant to Stait at Hartford. Covington later helped Hartford put Donald Ross’ 1946 design in the ground.
In 1928, the club asked Orrin Smith to redesign the inside nine. Smith rebuilt several greens and added today’s 3rd, 4th and 17th holes. Smith also created today’s Par 5 16th by combining two holes. The course we see in 1934 is a collection of all of these architect’s work. The inside nine is mostly Pryde’s routing with Smith’s features and greens. The outside nine is Jack Stait and Sydney Covington’s work. The original list mentioned Robert Jack Ross at Wethersfield, but the club has yet to find any evidence the Ross was there. The course does follow the same general routing we see in 1934. The course was altered quite a bit in the 1970’s and 1980’s while the club hosted the Sammy Davis Jr Greater Hartford Open, but the routing never changed.
Wethersfield Formal Opening-June 9, 1917. Short description of the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_x13Zz3jswBo6ufEsWWvmq4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e0b4cc0a-7f55-4c16-ad87-b570f82ef33f)
1922 Article showings photographs of Jack Stait and Sidney Covington:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uhBqSKdok3hVHW8TCQJ4FL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3b24605e-1790-4ba8-be41-1737cfaa0c6c)
1924 Article published with the 1924 layout below:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gVD5UNUz4fqwcNUBeUzNFk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/74a6c975-52cc-496c-acdf-a3c147661526)
1924 Routing showing the original nine as built and the new nine as proposed by Stait:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5YmcJD29quzxJfgPS3Sd7u.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/716b3e13-548b-418c-89ab-8245616c27b8)
1928 Routing showing changes to the 3rd, 4th, 16th and 17th holes.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6620.JPG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/34a6d816-fb91-4975-968c-e728fffd1004)
1934 Aerial showing northern portion of the golf course. (Inside Nine-Holes 1-6; 16-18)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8ux6ZdFevu8WdPpcDS1DwN.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/ca1a3bf5-e106-46cb-b5ec-5d8ab10cc056)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing southern portion of the golf course. (Outside Nine-Holes 7-15)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9A8J6VxU1Sg1p8Eezj9BJV.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d7bfe348-13ee-4a90-860d-3091a7ea114e)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1934 Aerial showing 18-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_hxbnVZHpRVga1Fj8uyPeGH.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0287da40-99a0-46b3-9e6c-959a77cfd209)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5894.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/b196ae91-903b-4db0-be69-4113ecbccfde)
Wilcox Country Club-Milford, CT (NLE)
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in: Unknown.
I have very little information on Wilcox Country Club. I noticed this name on Ralph Kennedy’s list of courses he played in Connecticut. This course was located on the original Connecticut Aerial list, but it was labeled as Wepawaug, which is the former name of Grassy Hill. The little information we have suggests Clark Wilcox sold land to George Wilcox in 1913 and that land later became a golf course. I’m unsure of the year the Wilcox Country Club was established or the designer of the course. The Wilcox golf course was quickly replaced by housing in the 1950’s.
Old postcard photos from Wilcox Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wtsLv8XSNPe7zjZDd3DckP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d3909d3b-b5b1-448a-980c-ff40df18e389)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fYJ4XBoxFZ2h9q9hUcS2Ph.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/d0803870-b8f3-4f6e-9843-465d86f73b14)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8xMCEKd61bSP1R17NRhyhN.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/daa00152-bec1-4091-b031-2bc5c8238b87)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Winchell Smith Private Estate Golf Course-Farmington, CT (NLE)
9 Holes-Pitch & Putt.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in: Unknown.
This course was mentioned earlier in the thread. I just wanted to repeat it here, so it’s listed in its proper place. This course was featured on the cover of an October 1931 National Greenkeeper magazine. It was a private estate pitch and putt golf course built on a very small scale. I tried to blow up the aerial, but it’s still very hard to see. Winchell Smith was a famous playwright. Many of his best works were turned into movies. More information about Winchell Smith can be found here:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winchell_Smith (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winchell_Smith)
1915 story about the construction of the Winchell Estate:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9xHfH2X6S3YvAbfYR19mvJ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/92d31240-c2f6-49b5-812b-9c91f2f32c05)
The National Greenkeeper Cover Photo., October 1931:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5769.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/67fbb868-bc8f-42c2-8391-1db30240791f)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_afAP3xHL6ZThgEeviqCyRj.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7481411d-f660-48e7-853c-10454b898bbd)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Zoomed in:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_jdx6GewHweZKdiWWRuWwQv.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/99c820c8-db27-431f-a0de-29baad4317d4)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Bret-I wonder what connection Winchell Smith had if any to CC of Farmington which is just across the street on the other side of Route 10?
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Windham Club-Willimantic, CT. FKA Willimantic Country Club
9 Holes, 2,956 Yards, Par 35: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Edward Connery. Established in 1922.
Willimantic Country Club was organized in 1922. Edward Connery, the pro from Manchester Country Club assisted the members in laying out a nine-hole golf course that opened later that year. The club eventually extended their course to 18 holes, but not for several years. I have no details on the timing of the nine-hole addition or who was responsible for the design. Looking at the aerials, the extension occurred sometime between 1951 and 1970. The club was private until the turn of the century when they were taken over by new ownership. The course has now been open to the public for almost two decades.
Today’s course includes many of the holes we see in the 1934 aerial. Holes 1-4, 10, and 15-18 on today’s course follow the same route as their counterparts in 1934. The only hole showing a major change is today’s 17th hole, which has a new green location. The 3rd hole, originally a short Par 4, has been changed into a long Par 3.
Edward Connery, pro from Manchester Country Club is laying out the course in 1922.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_61k64LhgsLAGdyC6DupEvK.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/7d3efc37-2f21-4e5f-8224-7536a88bc865)
May 1922 article including early information on the club.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7KiLhvN5XsZUbe8L7U5EPe.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ea3d45b5-d131-4c50-947d-89d99290cbcb)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ueh3jrZPhhUvfyFcEFHfaK.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a590d91d-b85d-43da-a100-ffa3b8f6d90f)
June 1922-Clubhouse is under construction and the greens are growing in.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_1iH2CrDJQiSLX5ozHnxQ31.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/c211dd80-22c2-4623-8345-6d7160f9b09b)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dCHT4qgnDqFuo2LzDmnKg4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/99200bf6-b775-4f5f-a658-350d23e6cd1c)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same area as 1934.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6631.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/30ee7ece-c619-4642-af39-4ec5bda6ecd2)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 18-hole course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5897.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a56c3158-c141-4506-8dcf-828e864221da)
Woodbridge Country Club-Woodbridge, CT (NLE) FKA Woodbridge Hills Country Club
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
18 Holes, 6,418 Yards, Par 71: 1938 Golfer’s Yearbook
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1931.
Woodbridge Hills Country Club was established in 1931. I have very little information on the original Woodbridge Hills Country Club. The 1934 aerial shows a nine-hole course with the clubhouse located in the northwest corner of the property. The club extended their course to 18 holes by 1937. In 1935, Tillinghast examined Woodbridge Hills on a PGA site visit, meeting with Orrin Smith while he was building the nine-hole addition. Tillinghast offered suggestions and recommendations to Smith’s plans that appear to be well received.
The club changed their name to Woodbridge Country Club in the late 1940’s. Woodbridge built a new clubhouse in the southeast portion of the property which opened up more land in the northwest corner. Several holes were modified once the old clubhouse was removed, extending a few holes and adding length to the course. The addition of a driving range narrowed down the original 18th hole and several other alterations were made over time. The course was well regarded for many years and enjoyed several decades of success.
Woodbridge Country Club caught a stroke of bad luck in the 2000’s. After the economic fallout of 2008, memberships deteriorated quickly, and the course ended up in the hands of the town who never really wanted to own a golf course. A management company was brought in to operate the course but did more damage than good. The course had one last somewhat successful year with a new management company, but the town decided to sell all of the equipment to get the golf course out of their hair. If the course could have only survived another two or three years, it would likely be thriving again today. Just a stroke of bad luck for a course that once had some of the best velvet greens around.
1937 article including Orrin Smith and A.W. Tillinghast (as consulting architect):
. (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_2pYrfjepkHdMfCGuHmA7mU.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/3c3187cb-5866-4091-9003-05b4fd00a5a9)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9zZT2NY6Vqkivjqt9xnpRC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/2c0b9343-3595-44a5-933a-a167b00c7d10)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial-Shortly after the course closed.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5896.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/2d1f0e43-9831-4152-9c94-724fba38f08e)
Woodstock Golf Course-Woodstock, CT
No listing in 1930-1931. 9 Holes.
Designed by Robert Bonar. Established in 1896.
Woodstock Golf Course was started in 1896. According to the town, the course was laid out by Robert Bonar in 1896. Robert Bonar was the pro at Lexington Golf Club at the time. The golf course has always been open to the public from the very beginning. The course was laid out on leased land that was eventually purchased by Clarence Bowen in 1919. Upon purchasing the land, Bowen donated the course to the Trustees of Roseland Park, who still own and operate the course today. Clarence Bowen was the son of Henry Chandler Bowen. Henry Chandler Bowen built Roseland Park Cottage in 1846. His famous pink Gothic revival house shares the color of the roses that once surrounded it. The estate was surrounded by hundreds of acres of land called Roseland Park. Bowen donated this park to the Town of Woodstock in 1876, which is also owned and operated by the Roseland Park trust today.
The golf course doesn’t appear to have changed all that much in the last 125 years. The course listed in the 1900 Harper’s Official Golf Guide references several holes that still exist on the golf course today. Today the course tops out at just under 2,400 yards with the forward tees playing closer to 2,000 yards. The course yardage in 1900 was very close to 1,900 yards. On average most holes are about 30-50 yards longer than their 1900 counterparts. The two exceptions are today’s 4th and 5th holes which have been changed from the 1934 aerial. In the late 1990’s- early 2000’s a new green was built or mowed for the 4th hole creating a sharp elbow dogleg hole. Once this new green was added, the 5th hole was extended by about 50 yards. I’ve also been told that an original natural Punchbowl green has been left to grow in as a new non-descript green replaced the interesting Punchbowl.
It’s hard to make out some of the very small greens in 1934, so there may have been more tweaks to the course and greens moved, but it’s hard to see in the aerial photographs. Today the greens appear to be twice the size of their 1934 counterparts. The routing is mostly intact from 1934, outside of the change to the 4th hole described earlier.
Comparison of the 1900 course yardages to today’s course. Only 4 and 5 appear to be drastically different. 1-3 and 6-9 appear to follow the same path described in 1900. Some of these names are still recognized today:
1900 Yardages. Hole Name. 2023 Yardages
1-136 Yards. Starter. 170 Yards
2-233 Yards. Styx. 265 Yards
3-252 Yards. Poorhouse. 305 Yards
4-152 Yards. A Flat. 304 Yards
5-182 Yards. Stonewall. 289 Yards
6-238 Yards. Dipper. 275 Yards
7-159 Yards. Ravine. 211 Yards
8-343 Yards. Long Tom. 385 Yards
9-227 Yards. Buttonwoods. 227 Yards
Recent Story published on the History of the Woodstock Golf Course.
Woodstock Villager., March 03, 2023:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kBFaG42Pw1WvSq7UakxZjf.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/9df35f53-d40a-4ca6-a683-b2f9b7008870)
Roseland Cottage:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5150.JPG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/30e87394-ba31-47db-876e-716a327b6b5c)
Carol M. Highsmith Archive, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, 2011.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_rGK6ftp2nEEewZFnL6AKVL.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/a74514ce-7576-4ed8-a0fd-f83af46d0c64)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5910.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5160074a-40fd-4b41-aa8f-3381a6e1b974)
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Woodway Country Club-Darien, CT
18 Holes, 6,465 Yards, Par 71: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Willie Park Jr. in 1917. Remodeled by Maurice McCarthy in 1925.
Established in 1917.
Woodway Country Club was started by a group of former Wee Burn members in 1916. Several notable architects assessed the property before the club selected Willie Park Jr. to design their 18-hole golf course. Nine holes were constructed in 1917 with the second nine completed in 1918. The club formally opened on June 30, 1918. Maurice McCarthy was an early pro at Woodway, and he is given credit for a 1925 remodel in “The Architects of Golf”, but I have no information on what McCarthy added or changed at Woodway Country Club.
The course had further alterations in the 1960’s and 1980’s by Al Zikorus and Geoffrey Cornish. Cornish added the alternate first green that has since been removed. Today’s 9th green was added in the 2000’s by Roger Rulewich and the 15th green appears to have been moved from its original location. For a better description of the hole-by-hole changes, and a more detailed history see Bryan Icenhower’s photo tour of Woodway below.
https://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,71092.msg1708830.html#msg1708830 (https://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,71092.msg1708830.html#msg1708830)
Willie Park at Woodway. Includes description of a few holes:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wiPfEhoJqA2Qoa31zQKD28.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ccbef067-4c36-40c1-9a07-21573bf98ef0)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nzpVY9Jod6awNmn2LtAsU3.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ac0f0db3-3189-408c-8f3a-8b50615ba1b6)
Story about Willie Park working at Shuttle Meadow and Woodway:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dsN7jw3NPgRoygkwK3Jwfw.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ed3c6f95-354b-4a3a-83ed-d1608c7f9b98)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ctXF5wxL5GtUHSCQgwC92H.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/276a8763-8b4f-4bbc-89ec-b074c1500302)
2nd nine holes at Woodway to be ready in June 1918:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bELJvJGsFgh4WJwWgNs8TW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/20cd4eaf-fccf-46f6-bde1-d5efd3ebdda9)
Photo of Woodway with new reservoir under construction-1962:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender(72).jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/550c6bd2-435b-442b-b9d2-dc7f015e5a83)
O.J. Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Turfgrass Information Center.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_cy8TeGTppjoQchAmMeVFoa.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/22376a40-793a-4009-acb3-8b0061dbdf39)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5895.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3853efdc-775f-42d9-b33f-008e2af1d448)
Yale Golf Course-Ray Tompkins Memorial-New Haven, CT
18 Holes, 6,600 Yards, Par 70: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Seth J. Raynor/Charles B. Macdonald in 1923. Established in 1926.
The history of the Yale Golf Course has been discussed on here often, so I will try to keep it brief. The land for the Yale golf course was donated by Sarah Tompkins in February 1923 on behalf of her husband, Ray Tompkins. The estate included 700 acres of land from which the architects could choose to route their golf course. Seth Raynor and Charles Blair Macdonald came up with a 36-hole plan using a large portion of the estate. The University approved Raynor’s No. 1 course for construction in December 1923.
Clearing for the project began in January 1924. Seth Raynor appointed William Nugent, an engineer from Southampton as the superintendent of construction for the Yale project. By April 1924, Ralph Barton succeeded William Nugent as superintendent of construction. Barton was responsible for the heaviest portion of construction until he was succeeded by William E. Perkins in March of 1925. Perkins was an engineering graduate from Yale who would later take over as superintendent of the golf course once construction was completed. Perkins had been the foreman on the project since March 1924. All of this information comes from the Report to The Golf Committee on February 22, 1926.
I am bringing this information up, because many histories about the course suggest Charles Banks was the superintendent of construction at Yale, which doesn’t appear to be the case. Charles Banks was the superintendent of construction at Hotchkiss in 1924, and he was still employed by Hotchkiss until 1925. There is a very descriptive 1925 write-up about the Yale golf course that has no author listed, and we have been led to believe that it was written by Charles Banks. Charles Banks entire timeline at Yale seems to be derived from an article that he likely didn’t write. He did author a piece about the course in 1929, which I have included below.
The Yale Golf Course follows the same routing today as 1934. The many changes to the course have been discussed at length in other threads, so I won’t get into too many details. The 3rd green appears to be the most talked about change. The Yale Alumni have come to the conclusion that it’s time to bring the golf course back to its roots. Gil Hanse has been hired to renovate the course over a two-year period starting this Fall. As a Connecticut native and a huge fan of Yale Golf Course, I wish the University the best of luck on this project.
Early Yale routing plan showing 36 Holes:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6657.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6adb3ca8-12f4-43bc-a8fc-d2e99818a0d8)
Yale and Dartmouth students are working on the Yale golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_o1uabwAyFxhbDFGtu4bwTU.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/55c2419e-6670-4710-a6e5-7232c3a20b43)
Golf Illustrated., November 1925:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6658.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0fc62284-1c27-403e-83b6-e3b8aa36a706)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6659.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/4a925aaa-e650-4159-8737-f885db92085b)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6660.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b9949c56-c33f-4099-a7f8-f9c3020736c2)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6661.WEBP) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/28dba93d-d06b-4a34-b174-503745bdd224)
Article on the Yale Golf Course written by Charles Banks ‘06.
Yale Alumni Weekly., April 19, 1929:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kBje8CkD3DWTAB5zEbiZqB.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/35d2859e-06c0-40a2-a7d9-b292eea06cd9)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_nUWYsvhyRWnPuWcTKdKypz.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/eb0dfc6e-1e82-4efb-be45-bf93993dfb08)
A few photos of the golf course from Yale Alumni Weekly., Golf Number-April 27, 1928:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ibZ7ud1p9iDTm2DS8P4ayq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a9161358-fbca-41ac-8dff-0721dc46b38c)
5th Hole:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_eDQxYHuv55bRpxhdWv7kRe.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/64cdd5ed-e02b-4381-aba7-fe1ff91a5a2a)
9th Hole:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_cQvV4oP17LUMuNLWHtfvMV.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/751191a6-b9c3-4c9c-8566-66b2e80701d8)
A personalized Charles Banks advertisement.
Yale Alumni Weekly., April 27, 1928:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_41w63QCDWEzHwAvWeB7Te9.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/9c3472ad-dcc8-467d-b7d9-7ed5bf59434c)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_anikRVvtuAxsFVHUEs4w44.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/d881a280-6863-4584-a38b-61eb4cfa42ea)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5898.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0df464ce-0329-4e90-864a-0c5f2998b52d)
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Bret-I wonder what connection Winchell Smith had if any to CC of Farmington which is just across the street on the other side of Route 10?
Tim:
I have read that Winchell Smith was a member at the Country Club of Farmington, but I don't have any further details.
I forgot to add a profile for Greenfield Hill Country Club, so I will add it to the end here.
Greenfield Hill Country Club-Fairfield, CT NLE
No listing in 1930-1931. 18 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1901.
Greenfield Hill Country Club is a new addition to the original list. I don’t have a lot of historical information on the golf course. The Country Club dates back to 1901, starting as an agricultural club. The club would host an Annual Country Club Fair for the first several years of their existence. I’m not sure when golf was started at the club, but there are stories about Julius Boros growing up on a farm next door to Greenfield Hill Country Club. He tells a story of how he would jump the fence when he was a boy and play as many holes as he could before the greenkeeper chased him off the course. Boros began to caddie at the club when he was eleven years old. This course went out of existence before the 1949 aerial. By 1960, residential housing started to fill the land.
Old postcard photo of the clubhouse:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6739.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/445232cd-3dff-424e-9a8c-bc7d430f930e)
A great Sports Illustrated story about Julius Boros, written in 1968. It’s a lengthy story, but full of interesting information. The Greenfield Hill Country Club is briefly mentioned in the story.
https://vault.si.com/vault/1968/03/25/golfs-old-man-river (https://vault.si.com/vault/1968/03/25/golfs-old-man-river)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3vsF9yUkoekrgWFgLue3Kh.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/374580a1-eb40-4478-b010-c51673c21ab0)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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CONNECTICUT FORMER COURSES NLE BY 1934:
The following courses were included on the original list, but have since been removed. The courses listed below had closed prior to 1934. The frames below do not include active golf courses.
Alfred Pope Private Estate Golf Course-Farmington, CT (NLE)
6 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1901.
The Alfred Pope estate golf course was located in Farmington, CT. Alfred’s daughter Theodate Pope Riddle designed the house for her parents in 1901. The house was Theodate Pope Riddle’s first architectural project. Pope Riddle was the fourth registered female architect in the country and later lived in the estate once her parents passed away. The golf course appears to have existed on the property closer to the turn of the century than 1934. By 1934, it is difficult to make out any definition to a golf course on the property. Alfred Pope died in 1913, which may have been the end of the golf course? Alfred Pope was a member at Piping Rock and the Country Club of Farmington, among others. I have included a photograph of the estate while golf was still active. Today the estate and property are home to the Hill-Stead Museum. According to the museum, Alfred Pope maintained a 6-hole golf course on this property.
Here is a link to the Hill-Stead Museum website. A few years ago, the museum put together a display about golf on the estate.
https://www.hillstead.org/golfing/ (https://www.hillstead.org/golfing/)
Early photograph from the Alfred Pope estate golf course. (The pond in the background can be seen in the center of the 1934 aerial):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bC7ruNXuABXWXekS45SCZW.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/36a851f3-6dfe-4cd2-9358-0d7e57fbf523)
Hill-Stead Museum.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_phcKX5jTeqMyKSsXjiQaVQ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/84bc8995-848f-40df-9329-f701d3ea0ff4)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Danbury Golf Club-Danbury, CT (NLE) FKA Deer Hill Country Club
9 Holes, 2,302 Yards: 1902 Official Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1898.
Danbury Golf Club was founded in 1898. The club’s location was said to be where Immaculate High School is located today. Ridgewood Country Club was constructed in 1921. Once construction was completed and the Ridgewood course opened in 1923, Danbury Golf Club was gone. It appears some of the members from Danbury/Deer Hill would become members at Ridgewood Country Club. Danbury Golf Club was never listed in the 1916-1931 golf guides, making it difficult to determine when the course closed for good. There is an early photo of the Country Club Clubhouse in Danbury, but the location is overlooking Lake Kenosia. I’m not sure if this was a different country club, a prior site for the club or a mislabeled postcard?
1901 Official Golf Guide Listing
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_i6XyiiJMwhTFhNktxs4UPS.jpg) (https://app.photo bucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/79ca46bb-2336-44a0-afe1-4c101c2667f7)
Quote from Ridgewood Country Club’s History Book:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ndx8hb6d2qeCPd66kdfh6r.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8608d498-d1c0-44f0-850b-2457f033502a)
Old Clubhouse Photo, notes Lake Kenosia, which is not the same location as Deer Hill. I’m wondering if the club moved early, or if this body of water was mislabeled? The Deer Hill site would have been located very close to Tarrywile Lake.
EDIT: This is a picture of a different club on Lake Kenosia. This is not Danbury Golf Club. (See following replies)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6734.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/84899986-6234-47da-96fa-128f70e10070)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_veCxhQdcjyoTZQ9an9yhgm.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0a89a838-92a2-4555-9722-80660e9f4972)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Danielson Golf Club-Danielson, CT (NLE) FKA Quinebaug Country Club
6 Holes, 1,557 Yards: 1902 Official Golf Guide
Designed by Mr. Day. Established in 1899.
Danielson Golf Club was established in 1899. The 1899 golf guide identifies the club as Danielson Golf Club, noting the course was near the Quinebaug River. In 1901, the club moved to Alexander Luke’s Mansion House and the Daly Farm. The club was to lease the land for a period of 5 years. By 1901, the club had changed names to: Quinebaug Golf Club. Quinebaug had a 6-hole course laid out by Mr. Day, the captain of Wannamoisett Golf Club. This course was never listed in the 1916-1931 golf guides making me think the course had disappeared before 1916. I am not entirely sure of this course’s location. The aerial below shows a large general area of Danielson.
1901 Official Golf Guide Listing:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_g5GbyS81H6WfMXZQcTMGh1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7297f53a-003c-413e-bb86-9d2c638a4260)
Early article suggesting the club is moving:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wjR9tyvU7TVS6E5XdemaMu.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/03ced04e-f5bf-4900-9369-5012a41c36ab)
This article mentions Mr. Day from Wannamoisett, laying out the golf course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7CvExo5XLgBViX5nZkR6JB.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/c70ae43f-1d52-4721-bfae-dbcd63847943)
This aerial shows the general area of Danielson. The golf course was located 1/2 mile from the railroad station in the center of town. This is not an exact location.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6ch9kjvjq3QrxBy8aMGuPJ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f452e83f-1340-4407-83d8-877a692d26cb)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Ethel Walker School Golf Course-Simsbury, CT (NLE)
Designed by: Unknown. Established in: Unknown. # of Holes: Unknown.
The Ethel Walker School was founded in 1911, starting in Lakewood, New Jersey. In 1917, the school purchased the Stewart Dodge estate in Simsbury, CT., gradually transforming the estate into an attractive school campus. I have no information pertaining to a golf course on the property, outside of the article below. The intention to build a golf course on the property was evident, but we just don’t have any information to confirm a course was ever built. It’s hard to see any defining features of a golf course in the 1934 aerial. This is a course that needs further investigation.
Story about Ethel Walker School moving to Simsbury in 1917. Golf is mentioned in the headline.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bwrdHuHNoUc5EeWq5Bm4Z7.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/0ce27ba7-8d95-4fef-b5b0-de03ee789be9)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_hR74fvtE6oSga92cJAzNbb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/9a82e5bf-6403-4016-b8b9-6c6dd8a3ce62)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_t561L3npmwpfm9pUDD3NQT.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/65042925-3c74-422e-bc02-a4468146f3ea)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Shenipset Golf Club-Rockville, CT (NLE)
9 Holes, 1,950 Yards: 1902 Official Golf Guide
Designed by Robert D. Pryde. Established in 1896.
Shenipset Golf Club was established in 1897. Robert Pryde laid out the golf course in July 1896 for the previous private owners. This golf course was included on the original list, but the aerial was later identified as Cogswell Brook Golf Course, which existed in 1934. Shenipset was dissolved sometime before 1907. An article below includes a few details about the course closing while noting the clubhouse has now been sold off. The location of Shenipset was on the western shore of Shenipset Lake. The location was actually in Ellington, although the golf guides always listed Rockville. Shenipset and Cogswell Brook appear to have played on separate properties, but their locations would have been very close to each other.
1901 Harper’s Official Golf Guide Listing:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_up14RPVJy6vypL8KMBLCiX.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/1c27fcad-5258-4d28-af5e-2b4b464264b1)
1907-Shenipset Clubhouse is sold:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6726.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/7748d2f3-695a-47e2-b104-b9009005f46e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_a3yoN9B4jaoJfaTvBdjzrD.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/4441725d-fa83-4bc0-9991-7c2506bf3400)
1934 Aerial-Showing Western Shore of Shenipset Lake (This is not an exact location):
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kijabi6Xmuv477ucnozPuv.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/cdcd9171-5374-4c6a-95e1-857021b1e762)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Thank you for the follow up info on Danbury Golf Club...
1. I haven't seen that exact pic before, but I've seen other period postcards/tableaux of Kenosia and it seems to be "right"...the most confusing thing is the labeling on your pic "Country Club" - I've never seen/known the Kenosia park to have been referenced that way or as a private "cc" type facility.
2. Even though Tarrywile Lake is somewhat close, the topography between the DCC site (current Immaculate HS) and that lake would preclude any view of the Lake and DCC's clubhouse in any one picture.
Based on these items, I suspect the pic is not capturing any part of this NLE.
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Thank you for the follow up info on Danbury Golf Club...
1. I haven't seen that exact pic before, but I've seen other period postcards/tableaux of Kenosia and it seems to be "right"...the most confusing thing is the labeling on your pic "Country Club" - I've never seen/known the Kenosia park to have been referenced that way or as a private "cc" type facility.
2. Even though Tarrywile Lake is somewhat close, the topography between the DCC site (current Immaculate HS) and that lake would preclude any view of the Lake and DCC's clubhouse in any one picture.
Based on these items, I suspect the pic is not capturing any part of this NLE.
Thanks Vinnie. I appreciate your feedback. I took a look at the aerials of Lake Kenosiia vs. Tarrywile Lake and it’s more likely this picture was taken near Lake Kenosia, as you pointed out. There are quite a few structures surrounding Lake Kenosia in 1934, while Tarrywile Lake is unbuilt. I am including a screenshot of what is today called Anthony’s Lake Club. The building on this aerial looks like it could fit in with the postcard picture from above (after a few decades). Perhaps it was a Lake Club, rather than a Golf Club? Thank you for helping me sort this out.
1934 Aerial of Lake Kenosia near cemetery. You may need to zoom in to the center of the frame, before you can make out the building.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_u6MmcLSTSpKZHarw7R5Dpo.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/b734b2d1-b5c0-4f8c-8fc8-8b9d20883ef1)
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.
There are quite a few structures surrounding Lake Kenosia in 1934, while Tarrywile Lake is unbuilt. I am including a screenshot of what is today called Anthony’s Lake Club. The building on this aerial looks like it could fit in with the postcard picture from above (after a few decades). Perhaps it was a Lake Club, rather than a Golf Club? Thank you for helping me sort this out.
This last exchange helps it make sense...yes, it's Kenosia and not DGC. Indeed, when you said "Anthony's LC" I realize I wasn't considering that eastern portion of the property, which has been an Italian-American community center (locally known as the Amerigo Vespucci club) who usually hosts various church. bingo, bocce and Italian-American themed spaghetti nights for years and years, and whose main building extends to the lake edge, even today....today's structure has a similar shape and lakeside vibe.
Tarrywhile was a private residence, neglected disused property before the 1980s and wouldn't have had any such structures. It's now a registered historic site and public lands park, a jewel of Danbury's civic portfolio.
Regarding the old DGC property and that Ridgewood Club History description of it, I'd like to add my speculation this would have been one miserable place to play except in the driest stretch of weather as the main field of the property (now Immaculate's back lawn and athletic fields) is at the bottom of two fairly steep drainage hills...a broad, very steep incline from the Deer Hill neighborhood (across and down over what I believe is Wilson St midway down that hill) all along its east and north east and a slightly smaller embankment which borders the Immaculate property on the Lincoln Road west/sw part of the property, where a Still River creek tributary ambles through. Before it was renovated some years ago the Immaculate main football/soccer field was indeed a muddy, low mess, one of the swampiest I remember.
All by way of saying, I can understand that interviewee's comment "..there wasn't enough member interest to support it..." It would have likely been a chunky. muddy thing, basically flat, a bit swampy and a mosquito's delight...a humid sunstroke valley on even the dry summer days. As his comments point, it seems to have been a rudimentary placeholding thing available for use in the days before development...a frequent model before World War I it seems.
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There are quite a few structures surrounding Lake Kenosia in 1934, while Tarrywile Lake is unbuilt. I am including a screenshot of what is today called Anthony’s Lake Club. The building on this aerial looks like it could fit in with the postcard picture from above (after a few decades). Perhaps it was a Lake Club, rather than a Golf Club? Thank you for helping me sort this out.
This last exchange helps it make sense...yes, it's Kenosia and not DGC. Indeed, when you said "Anthony's LC" I realize I wasn't considering that eastern portion of the property, which has been an Italian-American community center (locally known as the Amerigo Vespucci club) who usually hosts various church. bingo, bocce and Italian-American themed spaghetti nights for years and years, and whose main building extends to the lake edge, even today....today's structure has a similar shape and lakeside vibe.
Tarrywhile was a private residence, neglected disused property before the 1980s and wouldn't have had any such structures. It's now a registered historic site and public lands park, a jewel of Danbury's civic portfolio.
Regarding the old DGC property and that Ridgewood Club History description of it, I'd like to add my speculation this would have been one miserable place to play except in the driest stretch of weather as the main field of the property (now Immaculate's back lawn and athletic fields) is at the bottom of two fairly steep drainage hills...a broad, very steep incline from the Deer Hill neighborhood (across and down over what I believe is Wilson St midway down that hill) all along its east and north east and a slightly smaller embankment which borders the Immaculate property on the Lincoln Road west/sw part of the property, where a Still River creek tributary ambles through. Before it was renovated some years ago the Immaculate main football/soccer field was indeed a muddy, low mess, one of the swampiest I remember.
All by way of saying, I can understand that interviewee's comment "..there wasn't enough member interest to support it..." It would have likely been a chunky. muddy thing, basically flat, a bit swampy and a mosquito's delight...a humid sunstroke valley on even the dry summer days. As his comments point, it seems to have been a rudimentary placeholding thing available for use in the days before development...a frequent model before World War I it seems.
I think you’ve summed it up nicely. Thanks again for your feedback.
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CONNECTICUT FUTURE COURSES REMOVED FROM 1934 LIST
These two courses somehow made their way onto the original list a few decades before they were built.
Banner Lodge Country Club-Moodus, CT. Currently Black Birch Country Club
18 Holes, 6,357, Par 72: Article Below.
Designed by Al Zikorus. Established in 1960.
There used to be a myth going around that Banner Lodge may have an old Donald Ross course, which likely led to Banner’s addition to the original list 15 years ago? We can safely say that myth has been busted. Banner Lodge was established as a resort in 1922, but golf never entered the equation until 1960. Al Zikorus is responsible for the design of the 18-hole Banner Lodge golf course. The first nine holes were opened in 1960, with the second nine holes opening seven years later. Frank Gambardella has been given credit for the design in a few sources, but he appears to have been the pro-superintendent of the Banner course. Today the course is known as Black Birch Golf Course. Today’s routing closely follows the Al Zikorus layout from 1960-1967.
Story about the first nine holes opening at Banner Resort in 1960:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_k83LGBJgnBL1fjErHxhoEN.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fa6cab47-81e3-4e9a-979d-df7b0cf98500)
Story including a dinosaur bone found during the second nine’s construction.
Article mentions Al Zikorus designed the layout about 8 years ago:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6afyxZoBrQXjNgfFekJ2Un.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3d4585ee-808d-426c-91ec-6cc8ef6dfb1e)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6756.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/044ecc03-e4c7-4db5-8148-0945f5c67f4e)
1934 Aerial showing Banner Lodge and Resort Property. Future site of Banner Lodge golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gjuxn2G816TWoHrtMTxbWv.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/773add74-05bb-424f-b6e5-2e05d3ccedec)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial of Black Birch Golf Course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6762.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/9a066583-82c7-407d-a882-d2ba5d70bc7a)
Deercrest Country Club-Greenwich, CT (NLE) AKA-Green Hills Country Club.
18 Holes, 7,000 Yards,
Designed by Orrin Smith. Established in 1955.
Deercrest Country Club was included on the original list. The aerial photograph identified with Deercrest, was actually showing E. Gaynor Brennan golf course in Stamford. Deercrest Country Club was located in Greenwich, abutting The Stanwich Club to the north. Orrin Smith designed the golf course in the mid-1950's. The original owners of the course were Lou and Max Block. In 1962, the club was sold to Mal Deitch and Dr. Joseph Goodstein for $2 million dollars. The new owners changed the name to Green Hills Country Club. The club survived through the 1970's before it was purchased by Peter Brant and transformed into an estate in the 1980's. Peter Brant and his supermodel wife, Stephanie Seymour still owns the property. Today, the estate is called White Birch Estate and Lionshare Farm.
Al Salamone appointed pro for the new Deercrest Country Club:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6759.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/cd84560f-e1e9-482f-8f48-6c06334d3b45)
1962 article about the club changing hands:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8NqbCMnB3W8BirmdY2KRWN.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/eef8537d-5e67-4b65-8abe-c00e32dc671c)
1964 article including the new Stanwich Club (Tunney's club). The Green Hills Country Club was the former Deercrest Country Club.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ficY9aEjoAQRqEpLZq1MK9.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/a7cc7657-dd5e-4889-a5a2-1e6b0597906c)
1934 Aerial showing future sites of Deercrest and Stanwich.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_imrf9eQCBb1mapiqvesfnc.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1285c6b2-5bd3-420f-a7df-d3a2c9ae67b3)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial-Showing White Birch Estate in place of Deercrest with Stanwich below.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6763.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0b8fd64a-2d79-43dc-9f86-4986f0585e77)
For the best aerial while the course existed, search Stanwich on historicaerials.com and scroll to the north of the Stanwich golf course. If you select the 1971 aerial, you can view the course in color. I am including a 1965 black & white aerial below from the Connecticut State Library:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_pubt3ARRRnCiRNoKo6XYpC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/bc9e31c9-fdf1-4493-8645-38e35f741708)
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MASSACHUSETTS
Longmeadow Country Club-Longmeadow, MA
18 Holes, 6,567, Par 73: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Donald Ross. Established in 1922.
Longmeadow Country Club was founded in 1922 and designed by Donald Ross. The course is very much intact today, following the original Donald Ross routing. The club’s website has an informative historical page including a video about the club’s history. Brad Klein offers his historical insight on the course and a few of the members contribute their stories and love for the course. The video can be found in the link below.
https://www.longmeadowcc.com/history (https://www.longmeadowcc.com/history)
A 1924 article noting Orrin Smith worked with Ross at Longmeadow in Massachusetts.
The Hartford Courant., September 14, 1924:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bso2vFsrPtCoDgZmFBr5mp.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ee1c8669-7e3e-4615-96e0-b35dc1519716)
1934 Aerial-Northern section of the course is cut off.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_ub9LHRUBdu5VisPKGNmhcP.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/3b45f411-794c-432a-85cb-44a866d796ed)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5884.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/f78ca379-f9e2-4f8d-986a-36e0daf19979)
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NEW YORK
The Blind Brook Club-Rye Brook, NY
18 Holes, 6, 198 Yards, Par 74: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Seth Raynor in 1916. Established in 1915.
The Blind Brook Club was established in 1915. The founder of the club, William Hamlin Childs became inspired by a visit to the Old Elm Club in Chicago. Childs was looking to develop a club in New York along the same lines as Old Elm. The result was an all-men's club with a limited membership of 150 wealthy individuals.
According to the club history: "The basic ideas back of the Blind Brook Club were several: to build a course which did not demand too much walking or severe hill climbing nor continual use of the long-hitting clubs; to create a limited membership and eliminate waiting at the first tee; to provide a retreat where a group of similar tastes could gather."
It was reported that Donald Ross, C.B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor had all assessed the property with Findlay Douglas before the course was built. (Findlay Douglas was a charter member of The Blind Brook Club). Seth Raynor was ultimately hired to design 18 holes for the club. The golf course was opened in July of 1917 with only the greens bunkered. Many of the fairway bunkers were added in the ensuing years. The golf course appears to follow the same routing today that we see in 1925 and 1934. The course has recently been restored by Jim Urbina. I believe the first (2019) modern aerial below is before Jim's work began. I recently found an updated aerial from 2022.
The Evening World., January 07, 1916:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wkcYasBTBGcNDhQ7ZknJCd.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e1a9976c-2979-4733-865f-ec6094d467c7)
Golf Illustrated., April 1918:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_xAwCBoPetfEvsoxcSGkXTq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/03be83fb-d86c-41b7-8bdf-b469b8859c49)
Blind Brook-1957
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6820.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/964f3ce7-3e86-4084-a5ee-1856a31bd09b)
O.J. Noer/Milorganite Image Collection, MSU Turfgrass Information Center.
Blind Brook Club scorecard from 1944:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9r5uBN3ZbzsX4qURiBLikB.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1f8089dd-f8a0-4720-8135-4b646dff5a0d)
USGA Seagle Archives, USGA Museum.
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_iyW6Yj1hZvk43fyRLHyagc.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/ddf5034c-f6f8-4ca2-ad7a-5691ca50828a)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5886.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8693bdb9-993f-40b1-a93b-766b83c1a0c8)
Recently Updated Modern Aerial:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6850.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/41548221-5ff7-47a9-ba48-821eda64d856)
1925 Westchester Aerial of Blind Brook Club
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fLFJZcMAEEHf8oHYW9t6ZE.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/bc94a719-a84d-4f18-afba-e237f5fd6ea4)
The Historical Aerial Photography Collection of Westchester County, Department of Planning, 1925.
Pound Ridge Golf Club-Pound Ridge, NY FKA High Ridge Country Club-Stamford, CT
9 Holes, 3,080 Yards, Par 34: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1924.
Pound Ridge Golf Club started in 1924 as High Ridge Country Club. High Ridge Country Club was actually listed under Stamford, CT in the 1930-1931 Golf Guide. The southern portion of the golf course was located in Stamford, CT., while the northern portion was located in Pound Ridge, NY. In the 1960’s a developer purchased the course and split the 50 acres in Stamford into housing lots. Pound Ridge had strict zoning laws in place that didn’t allow the developer to piece off the property into housing lots. The golf course remained in place for 40 more years until 2003. In 2003, Pete Dye completely redesigned the 9-hole course into an 18-hole course using additional land available to the west.
High Ridge Country Club is mentioned in this 1924 article on new courses:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4GQC3V911o1PAEBdN6934Y.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/649bb489-30cd-4868-94ad-294d89a260fb)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_seksBKY2AsWHcjXp68Wyoy.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/afb1320c-96ff-4782-ab3b-20a2632007fe)
Story about Jackie Robinson golfing at High Ridge and a few other area courses. Robinson was turned down for membership at High Ridge in 1956:.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8Lf6sdFPA8KsNXHq2DwWNF.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/06ef3159-13be-4e77-a78c-1cdbff9e9a9d)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6AYKK2KjQoSemBryfnqxLx.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/112a63ad-849d-4e48-b8dd-492775a2d55e)
2003 story about Pound Ridge Golf Club being transformed into a Pete Dye course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_aMCSUP2WPQZN3uP25jgsxe.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f80d1af1-eb89-4cae-b6d0-ab44eae16c06)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_bMQHEGWBFibbuU4i7MC6CM.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/aa04d9c1-25e2-4107-b0cd-abc94f5d721a)
1926 Westchester Aerial showing 9 Holes:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_gS1EoSy65cgK4eXuW12uHF.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/cefc2e85-9fec-49d2-9991-8706bd001fbd)
The Historical Aerial Photography Collection of Westchester County, Department of Planning, 1925.
1934 Aerial showing 18 Holes.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_9LZi2S5d7ZHzdaEPSJKkxk.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/06a4fa9b-c273-459c-a2fe-38f2b85b37de)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same area as 1934:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6852.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/382c6a01-4793-4012-82ff-57d1233eed60)
Modern Aerial showing today’s 18-hole Pete Dye course.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5888.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/eab68a14-be10-4b8a-b1f1-f5297ec77747)
Kingsridge Country Club-Rye Brook, NY (NLE) AKA Green Valley Country Club, Doral-Arrowhead Golf Course
18 Holes, 6,120 Yards, Par 70: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Thomas Winton. Established in 1930.
Kingsridge Country Club was designed by Tom Winton in 1928 and opened for play in 1930. Kingsridge has changed hands on several occasions. The course was later known as Green Valley Country Club, Purchase Country Club, Arrowhead Golf Course and most recently: Doral-Arrowhead golf course. 9 holes were sold off around the mid-1950’s. In 2022, the course closed for good. There is still a golf academy on the location according to a map search, but the golf course is no longer maintained. For more detailed information on this course, see Paul Rudovsky and Vinnie Kmetz’s replies 59, 62 and 64 on page 3 of this thread.
The National Greenkeeper., September 1928:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_4FjfQAPJ4MECssfu3UxNvV.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/27701d8d-c87a-45c9-99c7-878d10ef6a52)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_woFGn6NhTGD9WGUhpHat3r.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/88952ca9-6a7f-4c38-9e0b-9c7ae9628376)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
Modern Aerial showing same area as 1934.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5887.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/43c7a3cc-9406-4a79-ac18-5f22437509b4)
Robert Law Private Estate Course-Rye Brook, NY-(NLE) AKA Lawridge
No listing in 1930-1931. 6 Holes.
Designed by: Unknown. Established in 1925-1933?
I don’t have a lot of information on this private estate course. The estate was formerly owned by Richard Crocker Jr. and later purchased by Robert and Frances Law. The golf course appears to be a 6-hole course which was located directly south of the Blind Brook Club. The architect and the year the course was built are unknown. However, the 1925 aerial shows the estate before the golf course was constructed, which leads us to believe the course was built between 1925-1933. The only information I could find on Robert Law is his obituary which I have included below. Robert Law died in 1933 and his wife maintained the course throughout the 1934 aerial. By the mid-1940’s the golf course was gone. Frances Law hosted many horse show events on the property. Most of the news clippings about Lawridge pertained to horse shows. Today, the land is fully developed into housing and the Bruno M. Pontario Ridge Street School. One of the streets in today’s subdivision is named Lawridge Dr.
Obituary for Robert Law, the owner of the Lawridge Estate:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_6bt7Wo9b1TWUPqTnBNDtL4.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/1f40b6c1-cd28-4cd3-97a8-4421dff4eb86)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_1YdukJ52heuyqf1mfvdCu5.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/131406cd-7137-45c5-bcf8-90dd1b3ce815)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3mn3eLLSe5fY7Wfmhkes8n.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/7b5cd93c-9907-46ef-8cba-401d128bd77a)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_8tqPNvyMmDG5zqNzpsN9yc.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/bad46f39-bc13-4c84-b598-0695d996b2ae)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
1925 Westchester County Aerial showing the Law Ridge estate prior to the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_wjy4M2ESAykAWZCSKdrLPR.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/9d89df6a-d38b-4922-99a7-29df0c095be0)
The Historical Aerial Photography Collection of Westchester County, Department of Planning, 1925.
Westchester Women’s Golf & Tennis Club-Banksville, CT/NY (NLE) AKA Middle Patent Country Club
9 Holes, 3,100 Yards, Par 36: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Devereux Emmet. Established in 1928.
The Westchester Women's Golf & Tennis Club was established in 1928 on the Banksville, CT/Bedford, NY state line. The course was actually listed under Banksville, CT in the 1930-1931 Golf Guide. Looking at the aerial, the entire property was well within the New York border. Miss Glenna Collett appears to be the driving force behind this all-women's club. Westchester Women's appears to be modeled closely after the Women's National Golf & Tennis Club started by Marion Hollins about 5 years earlier. Devereux Emmet was responsible for the design of the golf course, much like he was at Women's National. I am unsure how long this club operated as an all-women's club. The course eventually opened up its membership to men, while changing their name to the Middle Patent Club. The Middle Patent Club survived until the 1960's before the land was developed into housing. The Westchester Women's Golf & Tennis Club used an old 1760 farmhouse as their clubhouse. This house from 1760 still stands on the property today as La Cremmaillere Restaurant and is considered the oldest house in Banksville.
Article noting Miss Glenna Collett and Devereux Emmet:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_3KVQHMf2TrG5fVYNkBmurA.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/3f612c9f-1123-47b4-ba86-69ab1f74d237)
1934 Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_uPz6Hi5ZdtXeY1FzKYbP4u.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/26986892-317e-44c6-8ef6-c694662df575)
Connecticut State Library, State Archives Record Group 089:11a, Records of the Department of Transportation.
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Tony:
Old Oaks in Purchase, NY was designed by Tillinghast. It was originally a 27 hole layout , but 9 holes were claimed by I-684. I can't seem to be able to manipulate the search function, but it would be neat if we could move just a little west to see if we could peer in on the lost nine.
In response to this inquiry from 15 years ago, here are a few aerial photographs of Old Oaks Country Club.
Old Oaks Country Club-Purchase, NY
27 Holes.
Designed by Albert W. Tillinghast. Established in 1925.
1934 Connecticut Aerial showing northeasten portion of the golf course:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_tSCNyEv5qK9jhVQeyUvbhC.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/61746539-d6e7-4e42-bd49-f25c684ebce0)
1926 Westchester County Aerial showing the golf course under construction:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_amhHVbMmAmwHBdqKKWimgT.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/0501348f-8499-4d30-a6fc-7f33fec9089f)
1940 Westchester County Aerial:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_7BANrAGCT9GtpgWJPCxSto.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/ee3c8118-fea2-40ec-88d7-6f64f74bd778)
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6858.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/afed8dc0-630a-4a79-8365-0e4202cae8d9)
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RHODE ISLAND
The Misquamicut Club-Westerly, RI FKA-Misquamicut Golf Club
18 Holes, 6,100 Yards, Par 69: 1930-1931 American Annual Golf Guide
Designed by Donald Ross in 1921, Seth Raynor (4-5 holes) in 1913, Tom Bendelow, Willie Anderson, Willie Park Jr.
Established in 1895.
Misquamicut Golf Club was established in 1895, although golf was played in the area prior to that date. The club was incorporated in 1896 and quickly became a USGA member club upon incorporation. The course has had several architects visit between 1895-1934. The first nine holes were designed by Willie Park Jr. The club believes one of his holes from 1895 is still in the routing today. Willie Anderson designed the second nine holes to the west of Willie Park’s holes which no longer exist.
Sometime after 1901, the clubhouse moved locations from the south of Ocean Avenue to today’s location. This is likely when Tom Bendelow was called in. In 1913, Seth Raynor was hired by the club for $500 and expenses to build 5 new holes. The letters indicating Raynor worked for the club, do not specify which 5 holes Seth Raynor worked on. The club has evidence from 1916 that Walter Travis drew up a proposed plan for the Misquamicut Club. The Olmsted Archives holds a proposed plan from Misquamicut ,but the plan is dated 1920 and there is nothing in the Olmsted files suggesting who drew the map. I have included a copy below.
In 1921 Donald Ross was hired to redesign the course. There are no field notes from Misquamicut to determine what Ross changed versus what he built, making it harder to determine which holes were in place when Ross arrived. Today’s course closely follows Ross’ 18-hole plan. The biggest difference is the ninth hole. The ninth hole on Ross’ plan was a dogleg left measuring 370 yards, playing into what would be today’s driving range. The 9th hole on the 1931 scorecard measured only 316 yards and appears to be a straight hole in the 1934 aerial. By the 1938 Rhode Island aerial, the 9th green was moved into the 10th hole corridor which reduced the length of the 10th hole by 40 or so yards and created almost a slight dogleg to the right on the ninth. I have no information on who built the new ninth green between 1934 and 1939.
The club has recently written an extensive history which I believe includes all the work the architect’s accomplished throughout the course, but I have been unable to get my hands on a copy.
1899 Official Golf Guide Listing:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_5e9xhAdonakp55Yh3zJFyb.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/e03770f6-5b53-49d0-be5a-bd58d5f98d5c)
Early layout of the Misquamicut Golf Club. The hole at the top of the map, in the easternmost part of this layout called “Beauty”, played to 467 Yards in 1900. Today, this is the westernmost hole on the golf course, and the club believes today’s 2nd hole closely follows this Willie Park Jr. hole laid out in 1895.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/001(44).PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/6ae40361-2d2e-4f9e-a8fc-b82ec5796539)
Layout from Olmsted Archives (this plan was not used) the club believes this is a Walter Travis layout.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_c6CsPvVeBi8HoM7tRfb3Et.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/fb314ee3-9f34-4850-8d32-f9b52dce0e11)
Courtesy of the United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site.
1931 Misquamicut Scorecard:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_6887.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/aa2aba35-12ca-41d0-8be7-fb0cbedca308)
USGA Seagle Archives, USGA Museum.
1934 Connecticut Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_2YKvZ5t73V3jBEUkR2oa69.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/8964d102-9b0e-4b42-ae02-e930672eee00)
1939 Rhode Island Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_kc2C6JgCadB9aHCNJQ6ADZ.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/f40649f2-20e8-4e3e-b1bb-f5561eb1000e)
Modern Aerial
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/IMG_5899.PNG) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/f0ef25b7-eae2-421e-b19b-c55c9ef516cd/p/5dd151e0-d42a-4fb7-808c-86e84b61d3a3)
This concludes the update to The 1934 Connecticut Aerial list.
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An interesting 1984 article I found while looking through the Hartford newspapers. I thought this would be suitable for this discussion group.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_fbzQkw1QtZuxTMQiQ2sau1.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/789567cd-d273-48e2-88e7-a260a8f0f87d)
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Bret,
Happy spring.
Nowadays BC would more likely get in 'trouble' for citing Yale as CBM with some Ross tossed in than his critique of TPC. ;D
Good stuff!
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Bret,
Happy spring.
Nowadays BC would more likely get in 'trouble' for citing Yale as CBM with some Ross tossed in than his critique of TPC. ;D
Good stuff!
Jim,
Happy Spring to you too!
Everything was Donald Ross in 1984. ;D
One more article on Ben touring the GHO Site. Edgewood was designed by Robert Jack Ross (for those not following)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_aFKD5zES2jBAZDCNjCNSyq.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/2d53eb1e-7709-4337-9fb4-c13032fd6fea)
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/ag323/bretjlawrence/FullSizeRender_dJFSCFBLTomz7kMDVUXmxF.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/bretjlawrence/a/a262d2bd-f3be-467b-a9cd-2816e5d7d000/p/046a8982-67d5-4afc-9bd5-247e8e631be1)
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Tony:
Old Oaks in Purchase, NY was designed by Tillinghast. It was originally a 27 hole layout , but 9 holes were claimed by I-684. I can't seem to be able to manipulate the search function, but it would be neat if we could move just a little west to see if we could peer in on the lost nine.
In response to this inquiry from 15 years ago, here are a few aerial photographs of Old Oaks Country Club.
Old Oaks Country Club-Purchase, NY
27 Holes.
Designed by Albert W. Tillinghast. Established in 1925.
Probably a good idea to note the full history of Old Oaks. Founded in 1925 as Progress CC, the club was renamed Purchase CC a short time later (and reverted back to the original name a shot time thereafter), before merging with Oak Ridge CC in 1935 with Oak Ridge abandoning its course in Tuckahoe.
The Tillie design was supposedly constructed by Alison's build team.