
Marcum Course
Marcum Golf Course
About this course
Marcum Golf Course in Empire, Alabama is a nine-hole layout designed by Percy Marcum, a regional architect whose work shaped several courses across the Southeast. The course reflects the modest scale and practical design philosophy common to rural Alabama golf in the mid-twentieth century. Set in the rolling terrain typical of central Alabama, Marcum plays through a mix of open fairways and tree-lined corridors, with the routing taking advantage of natural elevation changes to create variety across the nine holes. The course serves the local Empire community as a straightforward test of fundamental golf skills rather than a championship venue. Marcum's design emphasizes playability and strategic shot-making over length, with greens positioned to reward accuracy from the tee. The layout likely incorporates the natural drainage and topography of its setting, a common practice among regional architects working within modest budgets. While Marcum Golf Course does not appear in major national rankings or tournament histories, it represents the type of accessible, well-maintained nine-hole facility that has long anchored golf in smaller Alabama towns. The course remains in operation as a community resource, offering members and visitors a straightforward round in a rural setting.
Quick facts
- Location
- Empire, AL, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 1969
- Designer
- Percy Marcum
- Holes
- 18
- Par
- 71
- Length
- 5,753 yards
- Difficulty
- 68.2/115
Getting there
The journey to Marcum Golf Course begins at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), roughly forty minutes to the northeast, before turning south through the rolling terrain of central Alabama toward the small community of Empire. The drive unfolds across quiet rural highways that gradually narrow into tree-lined country roads, passing through the gentle topography that defines this corner of the state - a landscape of red clay, pine stands, and open pasture that speaks to Alabama's agricultural heritage. As you approach Marcum, the surrounding countryside grows more intimate, with the course itself emerging as a carefully preserved jewel set apart from the modest settlements nearby, offering a serene and unhurried arrival that reflects the understated character of this regional gem.

FAQ
Common questions about Marcum
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Marcum was designed by Percy Marcum.
Yes. Marcum is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Marcum is 71.
Marcum plays 5,753 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Marcum is 115.
Marcum is a 18-hole course.



