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Plainfield Country Club
Architect: Donald Ross Year: 1890 1591 Woodland Ave, Edison, NJ 08820 Phone: (908) 757-1800 Course Access: Private https://www.plainfieldcc.com/ |
Plainfield Country Club
Foundation and Early Years:
Established in 1890 as the Hillside Tennis Club, Plainfield Country Club in Edison, New Jersey, initially focused on tennis. The transition to golf began with the addition of a nine-hole course in 1895, which was later expanded by Scotsman Tom Bendelow into an 18-hole course in 1898. This layout, known today as Plainfield West, serves as a semi-private nine-hole course.
Donald Ross's Design:
In 1916, the club purchased additional land, leading to the commissioning of Donald Ross to redesign the golf course. Ross, instead of merely expanding the existing layout, crafted an entirely new course, which opened in 1921. This design, often cited as one of Ross's best, utilizes the natural terrain of the area, known historically for the Battle of The Short Hills during the Revolutionary War.
Major Championships and Recognition:
Plainfield has hosted numerous prestigious events:
U.S. National Championships: It has been the venue for the 1978 U.S. Amateur and the 1987 U.S. Women's Open, showcasing its status in golfing circles.
The Barclays:
In 2011 and 2015, Plainfield hosted The Barclays, a PGA Tour FedEx Cup playoff event, further cementing its reputation.
Architectural Evolution: Over the decades, the course has undergone significant changes, most notably under the direction of Gil Hanse in recent years. Hanse's restoration aimed to return the course to Ross's original vision, involving the removal of trees, rediscovery of lost bunkers, and the expansion of greens. This work not only preserved but enhanced the strategic elements of Ross's design.
Community and Golfing Heritage:
Beyond its golfing prestige, Plainfield Country Club has been a cornerstone of its community, offering extensive facilities for racquets sports, swimming, and social activities. It's noted for its large racquets program and a state-of-the-art aquatic facility. The club's commitment to golf extends to educational programs like the First Tee, reflecting its dedication to the sport's future.
Cultural Significance:
The club's history intertwines with local lore, like the Battle of The Short Hills, adding a layer of historical depth. Its golf course, with its strategic design and challenging features, stands as a testament to Ross's philosophy of letting the land dictate the course layout, making Plainfield not just a place to play golf but a historical site of golfing architecture.
Modern Era:
Today, Plainfield Country Club continues to be recognized for its golf course, which has been ranked among the best in the country. The club's efforts in restoration and maintenance ensure that it remains relevant in the modern golfing landscape while preserving its historical integrity.
Plainfield Country Club's history is a rich tapestry of golfing evolution, community engagement, and architectural innovation, making it a revered institution in American golf.
Established in 1890 as the Hillside Tennis Club, Plainfield Country Club in Edison, New Jersey, initially focused on tennis. The transition to golf began with the addition of a nine-hole course in 1895, which was later expanded by Scotsman Tom Bendelow into an 18-hole course in 1898. This layout, known today as Plainfield West, serves as a semi-private nine-hole course.
Donald Ross's Design:
In 1916, the club purchased additional land, leading to the commissioning of Donald Ross to redesign the golf course. Ross, instead of merely expanding the existing layout, crafted an entirely new course, which opened in 1921. This design, often cited as one of Ross's best, utilizes the natural terrain of the area, known historically for the Battle of The Short Hills during the Revolutionary War.
Major Championships and Recognition:
Plainfield has hosted numerous prestigious events:
U.S. National Championships: It has been the venue for the 1978 U.S. Amateur and the 1987 U.S. Women's Open, showcasing its status in golfing circles.
The Barclays:
In 2011 and 2015, Plainfield hosted The Barclays, a PGA Tour FedEx Cup playoff event, further cementing its reputation.
Architectural Evolution: Over the decades, the course has undergone significant changes, most notably under the direction of Gil Hanse in recent years. Hanse's restoration aimed to return the course to Ross's original vision, involving the removal of trees, rediscovery of lost bunkers, and the expansion of greens. This work not only preserved but enhanced the strategic elements of Ross's design.
Community and Golfing Heritage:
Beyond its golfing prestige, Plainfield Country Club has been a cornerstone of its community, offering extensive facilities for racquets sports, swimming, and social activities. It's noted for its large racquets program and a state-of-the-art aquatic facility. The club's commitment to golf extends to educational programs like the First Tee, reflecting its dedication to the sport's future.
Cultural Significance:
The club's history intertwines with local lore, like the Battle of The Short Hills, adding a layer of historical depth. Its golf course, with its strategic design and challenging features, stands as a testament to Ross's philosophy of letting the land dictate the course layout, making Plainfield not just a place to play golf but a historical site of golfing architecture.
Modern Era:
Today, Plainfield Country Club continues to be recognized for its golf course, which has been ranked among the best in the country. The club's efforts in restoration and maintenance ensure that it remains relevant in the modern golfing landscape while preserving its historical integrity.
Plainfield Country Club's history is a rich tapestry of golfing evolution, community engagement, and architectural innovation, making it a revered institution in American golf.