The United States has more golf courses than any other country, and American golf has shaped the modern game. But golf's American story started slowly, with scattered references in colonial times before the game took root in the late 19th century. Here's a short history of how golf grew in America.
Colonial references
There are scattered references to golf in the American colonies in the 18th century, including clubs mentioned in southern port cities. These early golfing activities faded, and organised golf didn't take hold until much later.
The 1880s and 1890s: golf arrives
In the late 1880s, enthusiasts established some of the first permanent golf clubs in the USA, often in the Northeast, laying out simple courses on farmland and estates. Within a few years, clubs were springing up across the country.
In 1894, a national governing body was formed to standardise rules and organise championships, and national amateur and open championships began in 1895.
Early 20th century growth
- Private clubs multiplied in cities and suburbs.
- Resorts in Florida, the Carolinas and elsewhere attracted winter golfers. Read golf in Florida and golf in the Carolinas.
- A celebrated victory by a young amateur over established professionals in a national championship in the 1910s captured public imagination and boosted golf's popularity.
- The golden age of course design in the 1910s and 1920s produced many classic courses. Read golf course architecture history.
Public golf
Municipal and public courses opened in many cities, making golf accessible beyond private clubs. During the Great Depression, public works programmes built and improved many public courses.
The post-war boom
- Television brought golf into homes.
- Golf carts became widespread from the 1950s. Read walking vs riding a golf cart.
- Golf communities and resorts grew, particularly in the Sun Belt. Read living on a golf course.
- Course construction expanded dramatically through the late 20th century.
Recent decades
- Course numbers levelled off and some courses closed in the early 21st century.
- Golf entertainment venues, simulators and short courses attracted new players. Read golf entertainment venues.
- Participation received a boost in recent years as more people sought outdoor activities.
Frequently asked questions
When did golf start in America?
There are colonial-era references, but organised golf began in the late 1880s.
When were the first US national golf championships?
National amateur and open championships began in 1895.
Why are there so many golf courses in America?
Rapid growth in the 20th century, public golf, resorts, golf communities and post-war prosperity.
What was the golden age of golf course design?
Broadly the 1910s and 1920s, when many classic courses were built.
The bottom line
From colonial curiosities to the world's largest golf nation, American golf grew through private clubs, resorts, public courses and the post-war boom, and continues to evolve today. For more golf history, read the history of golf.