Mackinaw Headlands Golf Course
Here is a bit of the history of what we think was Mackinaw's first golf course - the Mackinaw Headlands Golf Course. A collection of real photo postcards and news clippings about the history of golf in Mackinaw City.
"Stop Over at Mackinaw City" Circa 1933
The following is an excerpt from a news article published by the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce in 1933.
"Mackinaw Headlands Golf Course offers its attractions to lovers of this sport. Its wonderful location on the hills south of Mackinaw gives a view of the entire Straits region, the passing of boats, the panoramic view of islands of the Straits, cool breezes, and the wild beauty of the grounds add to the attractiveness of this nine-hole course. It is the only course in Michigan which has this ground rule: 'If the ball lands in a deer track, the ball can be moved.' It is not an uncommon sight to see deer on the grounds."
"Stop Over at Mackinaw City" Circa 1933
Following are a couple rare glimpses of the Mackinaw Headlands Golf Course in the form of real photo post cards (aka RPPC).
Real photo post card (RPPC) showing the number one fairway of the Mackinaw Headlands Golf Course in Mackinaw City, Michigan.
Real photo post card (RPPC) of the Mackinaw Headlands Golf Course in Mackinaw City, Michigan.
News Clipping for Mackinaw Headlands Golf Course
Following is a clipping taken from a Mackinaw City Newspaper.
"Play Golf at Mackinaw City
The New Mackinaw Headland Golf Course, overlooking the sparkling blue waters of the Straits of Mackinac, is now ready for you who are visiting Michigan, The Land of Blue Waters.
A Marine Panorama from Every Fairway
You, who have traveled and plated upon golf courses in the most scenic parts of America, will again be enthralled with the sweeping views which spread out below and beyond each tee, fairway, and green. ALL who come will store up memories of restful colorings, blue waters, green islands, distant headlands, passing ships, birch-lined greenswars, deer cover and glorious balsam-scented air.
Overlooks Indian Massacre Site - 1763
The golf course is situated on U.S. 31 Highway on the heights one mile south of Mackinaw City where French fur traders bartered and lived peacefully with Indians until the English troops came to occupy old Fort Michilimackinac in 1763 after the fall of Quebec. It was on the site of the present state tourists camp where all but a handful of the English garrison were tomahawked and scalped through a ruse by enticing the soldiers outside the stockade to view a game of lacrosse played by the Indians.
Golf While the Family Enjoys Boat Trips
A six-mile boat trip across the scenic straits to the Upper Peninsula at a rate of 25 cents will entertain those members of the family who do not play golf. Or a trip to Mackinac Island on the Str. Algomah or by speed boat is another diversion much to be anticipated. An airplane ride over the straits may also be enjoyed, the airport being located south of the golf course."
