Old Elm at Old Elm Club

Old Elm Club stands as a testament to understated exclusivity, a haven carved into the landscape of Highland Park where golfing tradition is both revered and keenly observed. The course favors a cerebral approach rather than brute force, testing a player's strategic acumen as much as their swing.

Designed in the Golden Age, Old Elm presents a parkland experience of undulating terrain dotted with mature trees, presenting a unique challenge. Hugh Wilson, the architect of Merion, originally conceived the layout, and subsequent refinements have only deepened its strategic nuances, rewarding thoughtful play over mere distance. Though not unusually long by modern standards, its tight fairways and well-guarded greens demand intelligent shot-making and a keen understanding of angles. The course has subtly incorporated blind shots and strategically placed hazards that test both the experienced golfer and the newcomer alike.

Old Elm is not defined by televised championships, nor does it seek the limelight of major tournaments. Instead, its reputation rests on providing a challenging and enjoyable experience for its discerning membership. It remains a sanctuary for those who value the camaraderie of the game, played in an environment of quiet elegance.

The lunch spread at Old Elm, in particular, is renowned among its members, less for lavish displays and more for the consistent quality of its simple fare. The cheeseburgers, in particular, have become the understated hallmark of post-round gatherings, a fitting symbol for a club where genuine connection and the love of the game outweigh any need for ostentation.