6 Historical Facts About Mackinac Island’s Wawashkamo Golf Club

Introduction & Early Origins

There is nothing like Mackinac Island in the United States. People go by bike, bicycle, foot, or horse-drawn carriage because cars are not permitted. This unique setting makes it a favorite for travelers looking to slow down and enjoy history.

Tucked into this island is one of America’s oldest golf treasures—Wawashkamo Golf Club. It’s not merely a course. Time is being walked through. Golfers step onto a fairway that has barely changed since the 1800s. You should visit this location if you enjoy history, golf, or both.

In this blog post, we’re sharing six fascinating facts about this historic golf course.

Fact 1: Established in 1898 – One of the Oldest in the U.S.

Wawashkamo Golf Club opened in 1898. It is therefore among the oldest golf courses in the US to still be in use.

The course was designed by Alex Smith, a Scottish golf pro. He brought with him the traditions and layout styles from his homeland. Back then, golf was still new to America. Smith’s design helped introduce a true Scottish-style course to the Midwest.

Wawashkamo has remained nearly unchanged since it was built. That’s what makes it so special. Most modern courses are built for speed and style. Wawashkamo is built for experience. It provides an opportunity to play golf the way it was played more than a century ago.

Here’s why this 1898 opening is a big deal:

  • It shows how early golf came to America’s Great Lakes region.
  • It connects Mackinac Island to global golf history.
  • It has lasted over a century with nearly the same layout.
  • It’s one of the few places where you can still walk a round of golf as it was played in the 19th century.

Playing Wawashkamo is like stepping into a time machine. The course honors the roots of golf and the charm of Mackinac Island.

The Land and the Legacy

Wawashkamo is not just a golf course. It sits on a piece of American history. One of the pivotal engagements of the War of 1812 took place on the territory it encompasses. Playing golf here means walking on ground where soldiers once stood.

Let’s explore two more historical facts about this amazing course.

Fact 2: Built on a War Battlefield – The 1814 Battle of Mackinac Island

Long before golf came to Mackinac Island, war reached its shores. In August 1814, American and British troops fought in the Battle of Mackinac Island. The War of 1812 included this. The battle was fierce and left a deep mark on the island.

Wawashkamo Golf Club was later built on part of this battlefield. The course still pays homage to its history. Most of the ground still looks the way it did centuries ago. You won’t see modern changes like heavy landscaping or reshaped fairways. The course’s natural feel is part of its story.

When you walk the fairways, you’re walking through history. You can picture the battle that was fought here, the soldiers, and the camps.

Here’s what makes this battlefield location special:

  • It blends American history with a peaceful sport.
  • It reminds players of those who came long before.
  • It turns each round into a unique historical journey.

Fact 3: Scottish Influence and Links-Style Design

Wawashkamo was designed in 1898 by Scottish pro Alex Smith. He followed the old-school design found in Scotland. That means no water hazards, no large bunkers, and no fancy extras. Just natural hills, open space, and wild grass.

This design is called “links-style.” It’s one of the earliest forms of golf course layout. It started on the coast of Scotland, where golf was born.

Wawashkamo still uses that simple design. That’s what makes it rare today.

Key features of the links-style course:

  • Few trees and wide-open fairways.
  • Wind and natural grass affect every shot.
  • A walking-only layout that reflects golf’s early days.

This style gives players a true taste of old-world golf.

Cultural Roots & Timeless Charm

Wawashkamo Golf Club is full of stories. Its charm goes beyond age or design. The course reflects a mix of cultures, memories, and traditions. In this final section, we’ll explore the meaning behind its name, the historic clubhouse, and the course’s role as a living golf museum.

Fact 4: Wawashkamo’s Name Comes from Native American Language

The name “Wawashkamo” has deep roots in Native American culture. It comes from the Ojibwe word that means “to walk a crooked trail.” That name fits the course perfectly. The layout has many twists, turns, and uneven grounds.

Naming the course this way shows respect for the land’s early history. Before the British, Americans, or Scots came, Native peoples lived and walked this ground. The name honors that legacy.

Why this matters:

  • It shows a cultural connection to the island’s first people.
  • It reflects the natural, winding layout of the course.
  • It reminds us that history is more than just wars and buildings.

Fact 5: The Clubhouse and Its Vintage Charm

Wawashkamo’s clubhouse is like a step back in time. It’s small, simple, and full of character. Unlike modern golf clubs, you won’t find big locker rooms or luxury lounges here. Instead, you’ll find wooden walls, old photos, and quiet charm.

Inside the clubhouse, there are golf clubs from the early 1900s. You can also see old scorecards and hand-written notes. These little touches make the place feel personal.

What makes the clubhouse special:

  • It’s a true piece of golf history.
  • It holds original items from the early years.
  • It offers a cozy, timeless vibe that matches the course.

Fact 6: A Living Museum of Golf History

Playing at Wawashkamo is like entering a museum—only better. It’s more than just a place to gaze. It’s a place to experience. You walk. You take part.

You breathe in history with every swing.

Modern courses rely on carts and fast play. Wawashkamo is different. It sticks to tradition:

  • No golf carts—only walking is allowed.
  • No big renovations—original design remains.
  • No fancy tricks—just pure golf, like in 1898.

This course teaches patience and appreciation. Every visit connects you to golf’s roots.

Conclusion

Wawashkamo isn’t just a golf course—it’s a story you can walk through. From battlefield grounds to Scottish fairways, every part has meaning. Planning a trip to Mackinac Island? Be sure to play this historic course. And for a stay that matches the charm of the island, book a room at the Inn on Mackinac—just a short ride from the first tee.

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