South Carolina: The Birthplace Of American Golf

South Carolina golf courses are known around the world and loved by locals. From Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course to Myrtle Beach’s award-winning Dunes Golf & Beach Club, South Carolina’s golf courses are far above par (see what we did there).

While many know South Carolina is home to some of the best courses, many don’t know that South Carolina is home to the very first golf club in the country.

In 1786, the South Carolina Golf Club was founded in Charleston, and thus American golf was born.  The club, formed by a group of Scottish merchants, started shortly after the first golf clubs and balls arrived to the states. It is often said that the merchants played their first round of golf in Charleston at a public park known as Harleston Green. Announcements of the club were made in the North and South Carolina and Georgia Almanacs 1788 letting potential members know to meet at Harleston Green.

While it didn’t take off quite like it did in other countries at first, golf eventually became a sport loved by many. The South Carolina Golf Club evolved into what is now the Country Club of Charleston.

The course has rich tournament history including this years U.S. Women’s Open tournament in May and June, and is home to many well-known golfers and hall-of-famer Henry Picard. Picard, who won the Masters in 1938, started at the club as an Assistant Pro just 13 years before winning the Masters in 1925.

In addition to a famous golf course the club also features a beautiful clubhouse, aquatics and wellness facilities, a golf shop, and a tennis facility.

Check out the birthplace of American golf and learn more about the history of one of the greatest games ever played here.