Old Elm Golf Club is a Private, 18 hole golf course located in Highland Park, Illinois.
Old Elm Golf Course opened for play in 1913. The course is situated among the north shore elite clubs just north of Chicago, Old Elm remains today much as it did in 1913. The interesting history of Old Elm goes back to its original design, a layout envisioned by touted English architect H.S. Colt. What is interesting, however, is that the construction of the course was administered by then budding Scottish architect, Donald Ross (then at age 40). Ross took over when Colt returned to the U.K. in 1913 to administer on-going design efforts there. Colt only made two visits to the US, and his departure in 2013 would never produce a return. Though the accounts are limited as to how the work was carried out, there appeared to be a mutual respect and a collaborative spirit between the two architects - two of the most celebrated in golf.
Restoration of the course began in 2010 with the design being handled by J. Drew Rodgers.
This private course remains open to men only.
Latest Golf Course Reviews
Guest (cart not included), played on Friday, October 2013 at noon
Tremendous golfing experience. This 100 year old Donald Ross design is being restored to its original layout. The greens are some of the fastest and most difficult you can play. The course is very short in modern standards, but the greens make-up for the shorter distance. You must take a caddie or fore-caddie with each group. The staff is very attentive and friendly. This is what pure golf is all about! If you have the opportunity to play this "hidden gem" do not pass it up!