The Oldest, Still-Active Golf Course in Michigan

This golf course goes all the way back to 1898: the Wawashkamo Golf Club on Mackinac Island.

It is the oldest active golf course in Michigan and is much more historic than that. Located in the middle of Mackinac Island, it is also an important part of American history. It just happens to be located on the site of the bloody 1814 Battle of Mackinac Island between the United States and England.

In 1812, British troops captured Fort Mackinac on July 17. On Aug. 4, 1814, 750 U.S. troops attempted to overtake the British and reclaim the island...to no avail. With that loss to the Americans, Britain kept control until after the war.

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The Wawashkamo Golf Club was built after vacationing cottagers from Chicago formed the club, and the course was laid out by two-time U.S. Open champion Alex Smith.

At the top of a ridge near the first tee, is a spot where a British cannon kept firing at the Americans.

The 1st and 5th fairways sit on land that was once a farmer’s field where American soldiers charged and failed to push the Brits from the hill.

In 2002, an archeological dig was performed on the golf course that included a metal detector. Over 250 battle artifacts were found: military buttons, an 1807 penny, gun parts, musket, knives, and more.

Scroll down a ways to a photo gallery where you can see the location.