History

Edward Lowe and J.C. Holt formed the original nine-hole Grand Rapids Golf Club in an open field at the corner of Wealthy Street and Plymouth Avenue in East Grand Rapids. The first golf club in West Michigan had modest beginnings, but as the game of golf steadily grew in popularity, so did the club's membership. Outgrowing its original site, the golf club moved to its current location at the turn of the 20th century where, over the years, a new golf course was created and renovated, a new clubhouse designed and built , and, eventually, state-of-the-art tennis, platform tennis and swimming facilities added.

Early Facts

  • Kent was founded as a Golf Club in 1896
  • Annual Dues were $5.00 for Men & $2.50 for Ladies
  • Annual lease for 42 acres: $75
  • Design fee for a 9-hole course: $25
  • Groundskeeper fees: $12 per month
  • Moved to present address in 1901
  • Golf attire: shirt sleeves or sport coats & ties
  • Bing Crosby played here in a fund-raising golf match in September 1942. Chick Harbert was part of his foursome.
  • Gerald R. Ford joined Kent Country Club in 1941, shortly after returning from Yale University law school.