Celebrating 100 Years Fernie Golf Club
As World War I was drawing to a close Elk Valley residents were eager to build for the future . The spectacular surroundings provided much inspiration to locals , and photographer JF Spalding was actively documenting and promoting the valley as a tourist destination in the early 1900 ’ s . Inspiration led to many recreational pursuits including the Crow ’ s Nest Pass Coal Company providing land in 1918 for a golf course at the current site of Prentice Park . The same year also brought forth the Michel-Natal Rod and Gun Club and the first women ’ s hockey team .
The Superintendent of the Crow ’ s Nest Coal Company was so keen to see the course built , he provided part of the funding himself to supplement other donations and membership fees . Volunteers cleared the land and started with just a few holes , but by 1921 , a further 9 holes were added . The club was renamed the Fernie Golf & Country Club when it combined with the local tennis club in 1928 . In 2018 , the club has once again reverted to the original name of Fernie Golf Club .
The original greens were a mix of sand , oil and sawdust and a greenskeeper was employed at a rate of $ 100 per year plus accommodation in the clubhouse . Grass greens were first laid in 1968 but it wasn ’ t until 1986 that the club finally achieved 18 holes , the current clubhouse and support buildings followed shortly after .
To celebrate this important landmark centenary , the Fernie Golf Club will hold celebrations July 3 - 7 . Events begin with a Ladies Tournament on Tuesday , a Mens Tournament on Wednesday , and the Tony Servello Senior Open on Thursday . On Saturday , a full day of festivities is planned including Golf Games , hosts in historical dress , displays charting the Club ’ s progress and development , and a BBQ dinner with legacy awards .
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