FOUNDED in 1896,
the golf course at Lac La Belle drew immediate play from the yachting and equestrian set that populated the mansions on the shores of the lake bearing the same name. What the local players lacked in golfing skill, they made up for with unbridled enthusiasm. Oconomowoc and the surrounding lakes were commonly known in the high society circles of Chicago and Milwaukee as the seat of wealth…the summer seat. The golf course, like everything else built for this demanding clientele, simply had to be the best, and it was.
Lac La Belle earned its place in golf history over 120 years ago as the Course of Champions.
A love for the game that started over 120 years ago.
The Old Course at Lac La Belle
Notable early dates:
1895
Organized by Prescription
Course located at Woodruff’s Hill, in the back acres of the H. H. Shufeldt family property.
October 7th, 1896
Incorporated
Course relocated to current site, 80 acres acquired from club member George Seaverns.
April 25th, 1899
USGA Allied Membership
Joins Milwaukee Country Club as the third Wisconsin club to be approved as an Allied Member of the USGA.
Become a part of history
The Club at Lac La Belle is one of the oldest courses in America and was founded in 1896. It is now a semi-private club with a rich 120+ year history.
Ambassador Memberships offer a unique opportunity to individuals who would like to share in our vision. These members, while limited in numbers, enjoy additional benefits on their golfing experience as well as the other amenities offered at The Club at Lac La Belle.
Imagine for a moment…
At our ninth tee box, pause for a moment and imagine being on this very spot – August 4, 1900. Eight or nine hickory shafted golf clubs in your bag carried by an early teenage local caddie who tees up a gutta-percha golf ball for you on top of a thimble sized mound of sand, ready for you to strike.
You are in elite company. Alongside you are seven men who cared for the U.S. Open trophy for 11 years over a fifteen year span. The best of the best competing on this golf course for a champion’s purse larger than the prior U.S. Open.
Lac La Belle, An American Treasure.