Stevens Point Country Club

The Stevens Point Country Club has a long-standing history in the area. Receiving its state charter in 1925, the first meeting of the pledge signers or stockholders was held on October 16, 1925. The Club began to pick up land options beginning in November of 1925 with the purchase of 115 acres together with another 25 acres adjoining Old Highway 18. Additional acquisitions were made throughout the years bringing today’s total acreage to 185.

Course layout began shortly thereafter when Mr. Jackson was hired to stake out the green positions, mark trees to be removed and prepare map locations. Mr. Jackson was paid $350 for his work.

Overseeing construction of the course was led by Professor G.E. Culver, a retired teacher of geology at the former Stevens Point Normal School. Professor Culver was given a lifetime membership in the club as compensation for his efforts.

Construction of the original 9-hole course was completed in July 1927. Golfers were forewarned that the grounds were still “under construction” providing marginal playing conditions. With the course still “under construction,” pledges were slow to roll in. It wasn’t until late in 1926 when the Club’s financial picture brightened. Club Vice President, Margaret Clifford, a successful New York Life Insurance agent, secured a $5,000 stock subscription from Whiting Plover Paper Company. This was the start of many years of financial and service support of the Club by Whiting Plover and its executives.

Dues in 1928, the first year of operation, were $40 for a single membership and $50 for a family with a $125 stock share prerequisite. Dues could be paid in two installments and stock could be purchased for $5 per month for 25 months.

Eventually, acreage was set aside for golf practice, tennis and archery. During this same time the decision to plant seedlings on the property was made to provide a windbreak and to hold the sandy soil. Nearly 50,000 Norway and White Pine trees were planted by club members with their successful growth far exceeding the members’ expectations.

The Stevens Point Country Club made a wise investment when hiring a Golf Professional to run the golf business. Frank “Bobby” DeGuire was the first Pro hired for the first full golf year of 1928. Prior to being hired, Bobby was a former winner of the State Caddy Championship. Prior to pull carts or the gas buggy, caddies were used to carry the bags. Caddy-fees at this time were 30 cents for carrying one bag and 45 cents for a “double.” Bobby DeGuire served as the Golf Pro until 1952 and Club Director and President through 1957.

The original clubhouse was a converted farmhouse on the property. During his tenure, Bobby DeGuire lived on the second floor of the first clubhouse. The first floor was used as the dining and bridge playing area. In 1933 following the repeal of prohibition, liquor was served. Golf supplies, storage, club repair and other necessities were housed in a small room inside the clubhouse. In 1969, the present clubhouse was dedicated featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the course. With the exception of adding another 9 holes, the course layout has seen few changes over the years.

Today the Stevens Point Country Club (SPCC) offers a unique experience to its members. A social membership includes clubhouse dining, pool, and tennis facilities. A golf membership includes use of golf course (no green fees), clubhouse dining, pool, and tennis facilities. In addition to SPCC dining facilities, a social or golf membership includes dining privileges at several other clubs in Wisconsin. Members may also consider joining the Stevens Point Curling Club, an organization operated separately from the Stevens Point Country Club but whose facilities are on the grounds.

The dining room which can seat over 200 and a spacious lobby/foyer area with a parquet floor that is great for dancing is an ideal location for member events. The lounge is open and roomy and boasts a large circular bar. The lower level has a good-sized meeting room with a fully-stocked bar and access to an outdoor terrace. This room, called the Tee Room, is perfect for gatherings under 100 people. On the main level, we also have a meeting room called the Whiting Room, which seats up to 30 comfortably, and can easily be set with a large boardroom table.

Andrew Berent, General Manager for the Club, states that exciting changes such as expanded theme nights and updated menu selections in the food and beverage area will begin December 1. Expect to see additional changes to membership including a more friendly rate structure, increased amenities and add-ons coming in spring 2009. To find out more, call 715-345-8900 or visit the website at www.stevenspointcountryclub.com.