A History of Excellence
About
1900 Origins and Founding
From a Nine-Hole Shanty to a Modern Club
Racine Country Club had its beginning around 1900 when a group of industrialists and businessmen of the community led the movement to acquire property and establish a golf course. The original location for the nine-hole course and Club was west of the city of Racine. The Club was primarily a golf club with nine holes of moderate length, six small privately-owned summer cottages, and a central shanty which served as a clubhouse. It is believed that Thomas Bendelow designed the original course.
The 1909 Move and Early Clubhouse
Relocation to the Wustum Farm
In 1909, with a desire to spread its wings, the membership was attracted to a portion of the Charles Wustum Farm as an ideal location for a more modern and exacting golf course. The original clubhouse at this site, built by Andy Kappel, included only the dimensions of what is known today as the Main Dining Room with basement and open porches, and rooms for guests on the second and third floors. The newly located Club was open for use only from May until September for a number of years.
Growth and Modernization
Expansion to 18 Holes and Year-Round Use
It was decided to operate the Club on a year-round basis around 1920, and a kitchen and staff quarters were added to the north end of the clubhouse. In 1926, the Club purchased adjoining property and expanded to 18-holes with the revised course being designed and constructed under the supervision of golf professional Todd Sloan. By 1929, the Club became the scene of considerable year-round activity with approximately 150 members, and the clubhouse was expanded to enlarge the dining room and locker areas. The long-awaited swimming pool was finally installed in 1952.
The Modern Era
Private Ownership and Investing in the Future
The course underwent extensive alterations in 1977 by Larry and Roger Packard, with later renovations to all bunkers commissioned in 2005. More recently, in 2023, the Club transitioned from a member-owned club to a privately owned club, dedicated to continuous improvement and premium member experiences. Recent club improvements include a new golf cart fleet, new pool furniture, and updated kitchen equipment, with further enhancements planned for 2026.
