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Ridgewood Country Club
Architect: AW Tillinghast Year: 1929 96 W Midland Ave, Paramus, NJ 07652 Phone: (201) 599-3900 Course Access: Private https://www.rcc1890.com/ |
Ridgewood Country Club
Ridgewood Country Club, nestled in Paramus, New Jersey, stands as a testament to the evolution of golf in America, blending historical significance with architectural excellence. Here's a detailed exploration of its history:
Foundation and Early Years:
Origins: The club's inception can be traced back to 1890 when golf was introduced in Bergen County, with the Ho-Ho-Kus Golf Club being one of the first in the country. This early venture into golf eventually led to the establishment of Ridgewood Country Club in 1910, following the consolidation of the Ridgewood Country and Golf clubs. Initially, the club's course was located in Ridgewood itself, but by 1929, it had moved to its current location in Paramus.
Design and Development: The move to Paramus was pivotal, leading to the design of the golf course by A.W. Tillinghast, one of golf's most celebrated architects. Tillinghast, who lived nearby and was a member, crafted 27 holes that are known for their strategic design and natural beauty. The course's layout was influenced by the terrain, featuring a ridgeline that adds to its dynamic play.
Architectural Significance:
Tillinghast's Mastery: Tillinghast's design philosophy was to let the land dictate the course's layout, a principle vividly seen at Ridgewood. His work here is often cited as some of his best, with features like the "Five and Dime" hole on the Center nine, a drivable par-4, becoming iconic.
Clubhouse Design: The clubhouse, designed by Clifford Wendehack, reflects a Norman style inspired by the landscape's similarities to northern France. This architectural choice adds to the club's historical and aesthetic appeal, earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015.
Historical Events and Championships:
Ryder Cup: Ridgewood hosted the 1935 Ryder Cup, a significant event in golf history, showcasing the club's prestige. This event was particularly memorable due to the home team's victory and the presence of golf legends like Byron Nelson, who was an assistant pro at the club during this time.
PGA and Other Tournaments: Over the years, Ridgewood has been a venue for numerous prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Amateur, U.S. Senior Open, and multiple PGA Tour events like The Northern Trust, part of the FedEx Cup Playoffs. These events have not only highlighted the course's challenge but also its ability to host top-tier golf.
Cultural and Social Impact:
Byron Nelson's Legacy: Nelson's association with Ridgewood during his early career has left an indelible mark, with his victories and presence adding to the club's lore.
Community and Golfing Heritage: Beyond golf, Ridgewood has been a social hub, offering extensive facilities for racquets sports, swimming, and dining, making it a cornerstone of its community. Its commitment to golf extends to educational programs, reflecting a broader dedication to the sport's future.
Modern Era and Recognition:
Restoration and Maintenance: Recent restorations, particularly by Gil Hanse, aim to preserve Tillinghast's original vision, ensuring that Ridgewood remains relevant in modern golf while honoring its historical design.
Rankings and Prestige: The club continues to be ranked among the top golf courses in the U.S., with its history, design, and maintenance contributing to its high standing in golfing circles.
Ridgewood Country Club's history is not just about golf; it's a narrative of architectural innovation, community spirit, and the evolution of a sport in America. From its early days in Ho-Ho-Kus to its current status as a golfing landmark, Ridgewood embodies the spirit of golf's past, present, and future.
Foundation and Early Years:
Origins: The club's inception can be traced back to 1890 when golf was introduced in Bergen County, with the Ho-Ho-Kus Golf Club being one of the first in the country. This early venture into golf eventually led to the establishment of Ridgewood Country Club in 1910, following the consolidation of the Ridgewood Country and Golf clubs. Initially, the club's course was located in Ridgewood itself, but by 1929, it had moved to its current location in Paramus.
Design and Development: The move to Paramus was pivotal, leading to the design of the golf course by A.W. Tillinghast, one of golf's most celebrated architects. Tillinghast, who lived nearby and was a member, crafted 27 holes that are known for their strategic design and natural beauty. The course's layout was influenced by the terrain, featuring a ridgeline that adds to its dynamic play.
Architectural Significance:
Tillinghast's Mastery: Tillinghast's design philosophy was to let the land dictate the course's layout, a principle vividly seen at Ridgewood. His work here is often cited as some of his best, with features like the "Five and Dime" hole on the Center nine, a drivable par-4, becoming iconic.
Clubhouse Design: The clubhouse, designed by Clifford Wendehack, reflects a Norman style inspired by the landscape's similarities to northern France. This architectural choice adds to the club's historical and aesthetic appeal, earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015.
Historical Events and Championships:
Ryder Cup: Ridgewood hosted the 1935 Ryder Cup, a significant event in golf history, showcasing the club's prestige. This event was particularly memorable due to the home team's victory and the presence of golf legends like Byron Nelson, who was an assistant pro at the club during this time.
PGA and Other Tournaments: Over the years, Ridgewood has been a venue for numerous prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Amateur, U.S. Senior Open, and multiple PGA Tour events like The Northern Trust, part of the FedEx Cup Playoffs. These events have not only highlighted the course's challenge but also its ability to host top-tier golf.
Cultural and Social Impact:
Byron Nelson's Legacy: Nelson's association with Ridgewood during his early career has left an indelible mark, with his victories and presence adding to the club's lore.
Community and Golfing Heritage: Beyond golf, Ridgewood has been a social hub, offering extensive facilities for racquets sports, swimming, and dining, making it a cornerstone of its community. Its commitment to golf extends to educational programs, reflecting a broader dedication to the sport's future.
Modern Era and Recognition:
Restoration and Maintenance: Recent restorations, particularly by Gil Hanse, aim to preserve Tillinghast's original vision, ensuring that Ridgewood remains relevant in modern golf while honoring its historical design.
Rankings and Prestige: The club continues to be ranked among the top golf courses in the U.S., with its history, design, and maintenance contributing to its high standing in golfing circles.
Ridgewood Country Club's history is not just about golf; it's a narrative of architectural innovation, community spirit, and the evolution of a sport in America. From its early days in Ho-Ho-Kus to its current status as a golfing landmark, Ridgewood embodies the spirit of golf's past, present, and future.