The sport of golf in Ireland boasts a rich history, with the establishment of golf clubs dating back to the 1850s and a surge in popularity in the latter half of the 19th century. The Newry area exemplified this trend, seeing the formation of three clubs in the 1890s.
Among these institutions, Warrenpoint Golf Club stands out, founded in 1893 and originally featuring a 9-hole course, which was expanded to an 18-hole course in 1920 through a redesign by Pat Ruddy & Tom Craddock. The result of their efforts is the splendid 18-hole Parkland course that stands today. In the early 1900s, the Great Northern Railway recognized the potential of golf in Warrenpoint, contributing to the area becoming a popular destination for holiday golfers.
The club’s membership grew steadily, and with nearly half of its members being women, it was decided to replace the old clubhouse with a new one at a cost of £640. Despite the significant expense, the members were optimistic that the debt would be quickly repaid, partially due to the generosity of landlord and president, Captain Hall, who only asked for a nominal £1 in rent each year.
Another club, the Rostrevor Golf Club, established a twelve-hole course on the Ballyedmond estate in 1892. The club’s first competitions were widely acknowledged in the press, with a report in the Tyrone Courier highlighting the well-maintained course and the skill of the players.
Newry Golf Club, founded in 1892, hosted its inaugural competition on the links on Camlough Road, with Mr. J Stewart from the Royal County Down club emerging as the victor.
The rich history of these local golf clubs is on display at the Newry and Mourne Museum, which offers complimentary tours of its main exhibition galleries. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, providing an opportunity for visitors to delve deeper into the area’s golfing heritage. Those interested can book a tour in advance by consulting the museum’s Education Officer.
For additional information about the Newry and Mourne Museum, such as opening hours and contact details, kindly visit their website at www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/museums/newry-and-mourne-museum
The history and legacy of golf in the Newry area serve as a testament to the enduring popularity of the sport and the significant role it has played in the local community. These golf clubs have not only provided a venue for golf enthusiasts to come together, but have also contributed to the cultural and historical fabric of the region.