Golf was introduced to Evansville in 1898, about a decade after its debut in Yonkers, New York. At that time, the sport was played with five holes on a cow pasture west of the property that became Akin Park on the city’s southeast side. The first nine-hole course opened three years later at the newly-opened Evansville Country Club on Stringtown Road. More golf courses soon followed, including Helfrich Field, where these men became the first to play when it opened in 1924. From left to right, they are Merritt DeJong, Bill Loughlin, Alex Ritchie, and cigar manufacturer John Fendrich.
FOOTNOTES: We want to thank Patricia Sides, Archivist of Willard Library for contributing this picture that shall increase people’s awareness and appreciation of Evansville’s rich history. If you have any historical pictures of Vanderburgh County or Evansville please contact please contact Patricia Sides, Archivist Willard Library at 812) 425-4309, ext. 114 or e-mail her at www.willard.lib.in.us.
