Ever wondered what it takes to play on one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the United States? Have you ever dreamt of walking the fairways of a course that has hosted some of the biggest names in golf, from Raymond Floyd to Brooks Koepka?
Welcome to Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. In this article, we’ll explore its rich history, renowned championships, the traditions that make it unique, and the insider tips you need to know if you’re lucky enough to step onto its legendary course.
Ready to learn what makes Shinnecock Hills Golf Club truly special? Let’s dive in!
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club: Overview
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is one of the most famous and historic golf clubs in the U.S. It was founded in 1891 by a group of forward-thinking New Yorkers, including William K. Vanderbilt, Edward Meade, and Duncan Cryder.
The club holds a special place in golf history as one of the five founding clubs of the United States Golf Association (USGA) in 1894.
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is well-known for being a trailblazer in golf, being one of the first to allow women members, and hosting many major events like the U.S. Open.
Where is Shinnecock Hills located?
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is in an unincorporated part of Southampton on Long Island, New York, nestled between the scenic Peconic Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
This prime location offers a breathtaking ocean view, and the course’s links-style design makes the most of the natural landscape and surroundings.
Significance of Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Shinnecock Hills is known not just for its history but also for its amazing design. The course was first created by Willie Davis and redesigned by William Flynn in 1931.
It’s a beautiful example of golf architecture, fitting perfectly into the sandy, rolling landscape of Long Island.
The clubhouse, designed by McKim, Mead & White and opened in 1892, is considered the first-ever purpose-built golf clubhouse in the U.S., adding to the club’s important role in golf history.
Shinnecock Hills has hosted the U.S. Open five times and plans to host more major tournaments. Its rich history and dedication to golf traditions make it a top destination for golf lovers.
What’s the story behind Shinnecock Hills Golf Club? Let’s explore.
History of the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club was founded in 1891 by a group of wealthy New Yorkers, including William K. Vanderbilt, Edward Meade, and Duncan Cryder.
They were inspired to bring golf to the U.S. after experiencing it in Europe. The group purchased 80 acres of land in Southampton, Long Island, for $2,500. The site, with its rolling terrain, was perfect for a links-style course.
Shinnecock Hills is the oldest incorporated golf club in the U.S. and one of the five founding members of the United States Golf Association (USGA) in 1894.
From the start, the club was ahead of its time. It welcomed women members and even built a separate nine-hole course for them, breaking the norm in a male-dominated sport.
Early Development
The original 12-hole course was designed by Willie Davis, a pro from the Royal Montreal Club, and opened in 1891. Davis worked with over 100 members of the local Shinnecock Indian Nation to clear the land.
In 1895, Scottish pro-Willie Dunn expanded the course to 18 holes, making it one of the most advanced courses in America at the time. Initially 4,347 yards, the course was later lengthened to meet the needs of competitive play.
In 1892, Shinnecock Hills built what is considered the first purpose-built golf clubhouse in the U.S. Designed by Stanford White of McKim, Mead & White, the clubhouse is an iconic part of the club and has been restored several times.
Historic Events
Shinnecock Hills New York, quickly became a key location for major golf events. In 1896, it hosted the U.S. Amateur and the second U.S. Open Championship.
The U.S. Open was notable for including John Shippen, the first African-American professional golfer, and Oscar Bunn, a Native American golfer from the Shinnecock Nation.
Despite some resistance from British professionals, Shippen and Bunn played, breaking racial barriers in golf.
Over the years, the club hosted numerous prestigious events, including:
- The U.S. Women’s Amateur in 1900
- The Walker Cup Match in 1977
- Multiple U.S. Opens: 1986, 1995 (100th anniversary), 2004, and 2018, with more scheduled for 2026 and 2036.
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club: Architecture and Design
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is a true links-style course, designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Built on sandy, rolling land, the course features wide fairways, few trees, and deep bunkers.
The course takes full advantage of its location between Peconic Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, with shifting winds adding an extra layer of challenge.
The design works with the natural landscape, making the course feel like it’s always been there. The fast and firm conditions, along with undulating fairways and greens, require players to think strategically and be creative with their shots.
The design ensures no two consecutive holes play in the same direction (except for the 9th and 10th holes), keeping players on their toes as they adjust to the changing winds.
Notable Holes
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is home to several iconic holes that are highly regarded in golf architecture:
- 7th Hole – “Redan” (Par 3): Inspired by the famous Redan hole in Scotland, this hole has a green sloping sharply from front-right to back-left and is protected by deep bunkers. It requires precise shots to avoid being thrown off course by the wind or the slope.
- 9th Hole – “Ben Nevis” (Par 4): A long, uphill hole measuring around 485 yards. It challenges players with its steep incline and strong winds. The green is near the clubhouse, making for a dramatic approach shot.
- 11th Hole – “Hill Head” (Par 3): A short hole at around 155 yards, but it’s tricky due to the elevated green surrounded by bunkers. The wind often makes choosing the right club difficult.
- 16th Hole – “Shinnecock” (Par 5): A risk-and-reward hole that stretches over 600 yards from the back tees. With strategic bunkers and an elevated green, this hole is crucial to the outcome of any round.
- 18th Hole – “Home” (Par 4): A classic uphill finishing hole around 450 yards, with the iconic clubhouse designed by Stanford White as the backdrop. This hole has been the setting for memorable moments in U.S. Open history, like Corey Pavin’s famous 4-wood approach in 1995.
Cultural and Social Significance
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club has always been a leader in inclusivity. Founded in 1891, it was the first golf club in the U.S. to admit women as members, a groundbreaking move for its time.
Janet Hoyt, the daughter of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Salmon Chase, helped establish a separate nine-hole course for women.
The club also played a key role in women’s competitive golf by hosting the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship in 1900. In 2036, it will host its first U.S. Women’s Open, continuing its legacy of supporting women in golf.
The club’s location is tied to the Shinnecock Indian Nation, whose ancestral lands include the site of the course. The Shinnecock Nation helped build the course in 1891 but has long claimed the land was unjustly taken.
Championships and Recognition
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is known for its history of hosting major golf championships, solidifying its reputation as a top venue in the sport.
Since hosting the second U.S. Open in 1896, won by James Foulis, it has continued to be a key location for the championship. Notable U.S. Open victories include:
- 1986: Raymond Floyd, who became the oldest player to win a U.S. Open at the time.
- 1995: Corey Pavin’s victory marked the 100th anniversary of the U.S. Open.
- 2004: Retief Goosen won with a dramatic finish.
- 2018: Brooks Koepka claimed his second consecutive U.S. Open title.
In addition to the U.S. Open, Shinnecock Hills has hosted other major championships, including:
- U.S. Amateur (1896): Held concurrently with the U.S. Open that year.
- U.S. Women’s Amateur (1900): One of the earliest major women’s golf tournaments in the United States.
- Walker Cup Match (1977): A prestigious international amateur team competition.
- U.S. Senior Amateur (1967): Another notable USGA event.
The club is scheduled to host the U.S. Open again in 2026 and 2036, with 2036 also marking the first time it will host the U.S. Women’s Open in consecutive weeks.
Shinnecock Hills is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world and regularly appears in rankings by Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, and Golfweek.
It was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000. The club’s historic clubhouse, designed by McKim, Mead & White, is often cited as the first purpose-built golf clubhouse in the U.S.
Now you know all about Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, you might be wondering how much does it cost to play at Shinnecock Hills and how to get a membership. Read the next section for answers.
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club Membership
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is a private club, so access is typically reserved for members and their guests.
If you’re planning to visit as a guest, you’ll need to be signed in by a member at the front desk before playing. While it’s rare, there are opportunities to play without a member, often through charity auctions or special events.
Booking Process
- To inquire about tee times, you’ll need to contact the club directly.
- Due to its private nature, tee times can be tough to secure.
- Members can introduce guests, but it’s not something that happens regularly.
Opening Hours and Season
- Season: The course operates from April 15th to November 15th.
- Operating Hours: While specific hours aren’t publicly available, the club follows a traditional schedule with some flexibility on Mondays, unlike many private clubs.
Additional Information
- Contact Details: For inquiries, you can reach Shinnecock Hills Golf Club at 200 Tuckahoe Rd, Southampton, NY 11968. The clubhouse phone number is (631) 283-1310.
- Dress Code and Etiquette: There’s a strict dress code and etiquette to follow. No cell phone use on the course or in the clubhouse, except in designated areas.
Tips for Playing Effectively at Shinnecock Hills
Below are some tips if you are planning to play golf at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club.
1. Course Knowledge
To play effectively, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the layout of Shinnecock Hills. This challenging links-style course features tall grasses, rolling terrain, and strategically placed bunkers.
Knowing the course will help you anticipate wind conditions and plan your approach shots to the greens.
2. Caddies
Consider hiring an experienced caddie. They can offer invaluable advice on hidden hazards, the best tee box positions, and optimal lines for approach shots. Their insights can help you avoid mistakes and make the most of your round.
3. Dress Code
Always wear proper golf attire, both on the course and in the clubhouse. Shinnecock Hills maintains a traditional dress code that includes collared shirts and golf pants or shorts. Avoid wearing jeans, t-shirts, or casual clothing.
4. Etiquette
Follow golf etiquette to respect the club’s traditions and other players. Key rules include:
- No cell phone use on the course or in the clubhouse, except in designated areas.
- Repair ball marks on the greens and rake bunkers after play.
- Keep pace with the group ahead to avoid delays.
5. Practice Facilities
- Driving Range: Warm up at the high-quality driving range before your round.
- Putting Green: Spend time on the putting green to get a feel for the speed and break of the greens.
6. Additional Tips
- Respect Club Rules. Adhere to all club rules, including:
- No cash payments for guests; all transactions must be made through the host member.
- No gratuities except for caddies and locker room attendants.
- Prepare for Challenges. The course can be demanding, so be prepared for firm, fast fairways and greens. Stay patient and strategic with your shots.
- Wind can greatly impact your game. Adjust your club selection and shot trajectory accordingly.
- Expect fast greens and rolling fairways, typical of links courses, requiring careful shot planning.
Conclusion
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is truly a special place that combines history, prestige, and a top-notch golfing experience. From hosting major championships like the U.S. Open to being a pioneer in inclusivity and women’s golf, the club has always been ahead of its time.
The course is challenging, with its tricky layout, rolling hills, and ever-changing wind conditions, making it a real test for any golfer.
Shinnecock Hills values tradition, etiquette, and respect for the game, ensuring every round is about more than just winning. It’s not just a place to play; it’s a place to honor the sport, and it continues to be a bucket-list destination for golfers around the world.
Key Points
- Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, founded in 1891, is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the U.S.
- The club has hosted several U.S. Opens, including notable wins by Raymond Floyd, Corey Pavin, and Brooks Koepka.
- Shinnecock Hills was the first U.S. golf club to admit women as members, making a significant impact on inclusivity in golf.
- It hosted the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship in 1900 and will host its first U.S. Women’s Open in 2036.
- The course is built on land historically occupied by the Shinnecock Indian Nation, leading to ongoing dialogues and protests regarding indigenous rights.
- The course is known for its links-style design, featuring tall grasses, rolling terrain, and strategic bunkers.
- Utilizing experienced caddies is highly recommended, as they provide invaluable insights into course management and optimal shot-making.
- Shinnecock Hills has a traditional dress code, requiring collared shirts and golf pants or shorts—no jeans or t-shirts allowed.
- Strict adherence to golf etiquette is expected, including no cell phone use on the course and maintaining the pace of play.
- Wind conditions can heavily affect play, and the course is maintained to provide fast, firm conditions that require strategic play and patience.
FAQs
1. How can I book a tee time at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club?
Shinnecock Hills is a private club, so booking a tee time typically requires being a member or being invited by a member. Guests must be signed in by an accompanying member. For inquiries, contact the club directly.
2. What are the operating hours and seasons for Shinnecock Hills Golf Club?
The course operates from April 15th to November 15th. While specific operating hours are not publicly listed, the club generally follows a traditional schedule with some flexibility on Mondays.
3. What practice facilities are available at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club?
Shinnecock Hills offers a high-quality driving range for warming up and a well-manicured putting green for practice. These facilities are ideal for preparing for the challenges of the course.
