Detroit Golf Club is one of the most prestigious private golf clubs in Michigan, located in the northern part of Detroit, near the University of Detroit Mercy and the historic Palmer Woods neighborhood. It is a notable symbol of the region's golf culture, combining rich history, architectural elegance, and first-class playing conditions.
History of the Club
Detroit Golf Club was founded in 1899 by a group of enthusiasts, including William R. Farrand. Initially, it was a small six-hole course with membership fees of just $10 per year. Due to growing interest in golf, in 1900, the club's grounds were expanded to 9 holes.
In 1913, renowned golf course architect Donald Ross designed two full 18-hole courses — the North Course and the South Course. This allowed the club to become one of the leading golf establishments in the region and attract new members.
Construction of a new clubhouse, designed by famous architect Albert Kahn, began in 1916. Completed in 1918, this building became an architectural highlight of the club and a venue for many events, including ceremonies and golf tournaments.
Donald Ross's brother, Alex Ross, who was himself the 1907 U.S. Open champion, became the club's first professional and held the position for 31 years. Under his leadership, the club gained even greater prominence in the golf world.
Courses and Their Features
Detroit Golf Club boasts two exceptional courses, considered among the best in the state:
- The North Course is longer and more challenging, with a par of 72 and a length of 6,936 yards. It is known for its technical difficulty, making it especially appealing to professional golfers.
- The South Course features a more compact layout with a par of 68 and a length of 5,967 yards. It suits both experienced players and amateurs who want to enjoy the game at a less intense pace.
Each course is characterized by Donald Ross's traditional architecture, with numerous bunkers, narrow fairways, and fast greens, providing players with an interesting and competitive playing experience.
Important Events and the Club’s Significance
Detroit Golf Club plays a significant role in the development of professional and amateur golf. Since 2019, the club has been the venue for the prestigious PGA Tour tournament — Rocket Mortgage Classic, attracting leading golfers from around the world.
Throughout its history, the club has also been a meeting place for many distinguished individuals, including representatives of Detroit's automotive industry, such as Henry Ford and his son Edsel Ford. The club’s members have included notable entrepreneurs, politicians, and cultural figures.
Today, Detroit Golf Club remains an important part of the city’s sports and social community. It offers its members not only high-quality golf courses but also other amenities such as tennis courts, a swimming pool, restaurants, and conference halls for business and private events.
Detroit Golf Club continues to uphold its traditions while improving infrastructure and expanding opportunities for its members. It is a place where history, elegance, and love for golf are harmoniously combined.
Current Information:
Address: 17911 Hamilton Rd, Detroit, MI 48203, United States
Contacts: +1 (313)-345-4400
Hours:
Tue-Sun 08:00-21:00 (08:00 AM-09:00 PM)
