Sylvania

Many golfers over the years have aimed to play at each course belonging to the founding members of the USGA, but they will never be able to play at the club where the paperwork was signed, because it took place in Manhattan. If you wish to play the location where the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America was established, however, you can still try to get a tee time at Sylvania Country Club, just a few miles from the Michigan border.

The course itself was designed by Willie Park Jr., and those familiar with the Scot’s style will recognize the putting surfaces at Sylvania. The property’s signature feature, however, is the 10-mile creek, which interacts with five holes on the property. Although three of those holes are par threes that merely require a reasonable carry from tee, No. 2 may be the most daunting hole on the course due to multiple carries of the creek required to get home for par. The approach to the green, which features the creek right in front, will be the most intimidating shot, especially for those daring to try for eagle. The channel once again greets players during the approach to the closing hole.

Although perhaps not as historically meaningful as the GCSAA, the course is also known for the old water tower that stands on the property.