Our History

From the vision of Medinah’s founding members in 1924 to the world-class destination we are today, our club’s rich legacy is a culmination of milestones, traditions, and defining moments that have shaped our storied past.

The Founding of Medinah Country Club

1924

Medinah Country Club is founded by a group of Shriners from Chicago's Medinah Temple, who were driven by their shared passion of golf and community. In November, the cornerstone of the clubhouse was laid in front of 15,000 patrons, and clubhouse construction began.

Gun Club Established

1925

Medinah’s gun club is established, marking the club’s oldest continuous activity and laying the foundation for what is now the Lodge.

Opening Day

September 5, 1925

The Shriners enjoy their first round of golf on Course No. 1. Tom Bendelow, world-renowned golf course architect, designed all three of Medinah's original golf courses (Course No. 1 in 1925, Course No. 2 in 1926, and Course No. 3 in 1928).

Formal Clubhouse Opening

September 26, 1926

Medinah celebrates its formal clubhouse opening, welcoming more than 1,500 guests. Course No. 2 is completed, expanding Medinah’s golf offerings.

Course No. 3 Opens

1928

Course No. 3 opens to members, completing Bendelow’s original three‑course vision. That same year, Medinah dedicates its 150‑foot flagpole—believed to be the tallest at any golf club in the world at the time.

A Year-Round Club Emerges

1929

Members enjoy equestrian riding, polo, tennis on grass courts, tobogganing, and a 50‑foot ski jump—cementing Medinah as a true four‑season destination.

The Caddie Tradition Begins

1930

The Medinah caddie program begins, becoming a longstanding tradition that continues to shape the club’s culture. Harry "Lighthorse" Cooper wins the inaugural Medinah Open, the club’s first national event. Cooper would go on to win the second Medinah Open in 1935, putting the club on the national golf map.

New Swimming Pool

1938

Medinah opens its new swimming pool to members, which becomes the site of water shows, dive competitions, and water ballet.

An Unlikely Grounds Crew

1940s

During World War II, sheep could be found grazing the fairways of Courses No. 1 and No. 2, providing a practical way to maintain the grounds during wartime.

A New Home for Shooting Sports

1960

In 1960, Medinah’s Gun Club opened a new facility, creating a dedicated home for shooting sports and continuing a longstanding tradition at the Club.

Restoring the Rotunda

1997

During the 1997 Clubhouse renovation, the Rotunda dome underwent a meticulous restoration. Its intricate hand-painted details alone took an entire year to complete, preserving the artistry and character of this iconic Medinah space.

A New Home for the Golf Shop

2005

Medinah celebrates the grand opening of its new Golf Shop, thoughtfully designed to echo the distinctive architectural elements of the Clubhouse and create a seamless connection to the Club’s iconic character.

Medinah Expands Club Amenity Offerings

2020

Medinah Country Club expands its club amenities by introducing the Golf Learning Center (GLC), Racquet Center, and Pool Cabana Bar.

Course No. 3 Reimagined

2024

Medinah Country Club completes the redesign and transformation of Course No. 3.

The Party of the Century

2025

Medinah Country Club celebrates a century of tradition, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories with its members at its Centennial Celebration. From the elegant setting and live entertainment to the stunning drone show and shared stories, the evening was a heartfelt tribute to the legacy we've built together.