Public Golf Course

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Brookwood's original 9 holes (now the Back 9) were designed in 1965 by William Spears on what was rolling farm acreage. The current Front 9 was added in 1972 and served as the inspiration for Brookwood's "Survive the Front 9!" slogan. And indeed the Front 9 is a challenge!

According to Golf Pro Joe Thomas, "The Front 9 is more target golf with its tightly wooded and rolling terrain. The Back 9 opens up and allows the player to recover from a mistake and challenge pars and birdies."

Brookwood is engulfed in natural beauty, great character, and is graced by many types of birds and wildlife. The greens are undulating with many subtleties. Thomas warns "Don't go above the pin or the putting will be an adventure."

There are 4 sets of tees to play ranging from 5,156 yards (Red and Yellow) to 6,581 yards (Blue). Brookwood's Signature Hole is the 383-yard, Par-4 7th Hole. The 383 yards is deceiving and it's all up hill!

Thomas followed in his father George's footsteps as a Golf Pro. George Thomas was Head Pro at several Michiana area courses for nearly 5 decades and "qualified for the US Open when he was in his fifties" according to Joe.

Thomas recounted how the Pro Shop came to be. It was a milking barn for years and was exhibited at the 1933 World's Fair, held in Chicago. After the Fair, it was taken apart and rebuilt on its current site as the Brookwood Pro Shop.

The history of the Brookwood Golf Course does not stop there. A two-story Historical Home built in 1865 stands near the Pro Shop and is utilized in a package deal. Pay-to-stay and golf for free! Call the Pro Shop for details on this experience.

Thomas shared another tidbit of history. It seems that local golf "legend" Phil Williamson accomplished a feat that very few can claim. While playing from the 10th tee, Williamson struck his tee shot and after an extensive search, found it in the cup of the 11th hole! Is it a Hole-in-One for 2 holes, 2-stroke penalty for having to move his ball, or just amazing talent? You make the call.

Amenities include golf carts, pull-carts, club rental, a practice putting / chipping green, a reasonably-priced driving range, on-course snacks / drinks / restrooms, locker rooms, men's showers, and the Pro Shop with retail items. Thomas provide lessons at a very reasonable rate.

Brookwood Golf Course is a host course for the Patriot Golf Day event. Patriot Golf Day is growing rapidly in popularity to help fund scholarships for children of soldiers killed in combat. There are other outings as well and several leagues to join.

The Grill at Brookwood Golf Course serves hotdogs, brats, burgers and the sides with a fully-stocked bar. They also have the ability to cater to large group outings.

What are you waiting for? Come tee it up for an excellent day at the course.

Buchanan, Michigan, a little more ...