WILLIAM J. DEVINE GOLF COURSE AT FRANKLIN PARK
🇺🇸 Dorchester, MA, USA
Designed by Donald Ross


William J. Devine Golf Course, nestled within Boston’s Franklin Park, carries the distinction of being the second oldest public golf course in America, a legacy dating back to 1896.
This enduring layout, a testament to early American golf architecture, sprawls across a landscape of rolling hills and mature woodlands characteristic of its parkland setting. Originally designed by Donald Ross, the course, while not boasting the severity of his championship layouts, presents a challenging yet enjoyable round. A mix of open fairways and strategically placed bunkers encourages strategic play, rewarding thoughtful approaches rather than brute force. Locals may also notice the significant amount of blind shots that are prevalent across the 18 holes due to the land that runs across the park.
Devine’s more recent renovation under Mark Mungeam has helped to recapture some of the strategic integrity of the original Ross design. While never a host to national championships, Devine serves as a vital hub for Boston's diverse golfing community, offering affordable access to a sport often associated with exclusivity.
More than just a recreational outlet, William J. Devine embodies the spirit of public golf, a place where the game's traditions meet the realities of urban life. It stands as a beloved community asset, a testament to the enduring appeal of golf for all.
Reviews
Good layout, some greens are borderline unfair depending on pin placements, pace of play a major issue
Nice public track
Not bad for a fun round. Played in the MIAA D1 state championship here back in the day. Conditions for a tournament like that were extremely poor.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
William J. Devine Franklin Park at William J. Devine Golf Course at Franklin Park has a Course Vaults score of 6.7 out of 10 based on 40 explicit golfer ratings.
William J. Devine Franklin Park was designed by Donald Ross.
Yes. William J. Devine Franklin Park at William J. Devine Golf Course at Franklin Park is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at William J. Devine Franklin Park is 70.
William J. Devine Franklin Park plays 6,013 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at William J. Devine Franklin Park is 129.