Spring/Mill (Championship) at Philadelphia Country Club

Philadelphia Country Club's Spring Mill course, a stalwart of Gladwyne, whispers tales of Philadelphia's Main Line elite, where generations have traded stock tips and swing tips across its undulating fairways. Designed in the early 20th century, the course bears the hallmarks of its era with gently rolling parkland terrain, demanding strategic play rather than brute force. Think classic, tree-lined corridors where approach shots are often visually deceptive, requiring local knowledge and a deft touch.

While not a regular host of major championships, Spring Mill proudly maintains its reputation as a challenging and esteemed venue for regional amateur events. Its bunkers, strategically placed, can punish the wayward shot, while subtle breaks on the greens have humbled even the most seasoned putters. Generations have known to play well, and then not so well and then well again in a matter of 2 or 3 holes. Such is the allure and characteristic of the course.

The membership at Philadelphia Country Club, drawn from the surrounding estates and old-money enclaves, values tradition and camaraderie. Stories abound of impromptu matches and lively post-round gatherings, often fueled by the club's rumored-to-be-secret recipe for their famous "Main Line Manhattan." It’s a place where the legacy of Philadelphia's elite intersects with a timeless love of the game, played out against a backdrop of understated elegance.

Architectural updates have occurred over the years to further modernize the course without drastically altering the original intent and flavor of play. The updates were done by a relatively unknown architect, rather than a "big name", much to the chagrin of some members but in the end, resulted in a more unique identity.