1925 “The Beginning”
Axel Lonnquist purchases farm
Axel Lonnquist’s vision was to create a high-end residential community with a premier golf course as its centerpiece. By acquiring farmland from Fred Schaefer and Henry Mensching, he laid the foundation for Northwest Hills Country Club, integrating luxurious living with recreational amenities to attract affluent buyers.
1926
Northwest Hills Country Club opens as a nine-hole course
Lonnquist envisioned the course as part of his grand plan to create a high-end residential area, integrating a golf course to attract affluent buyers. The original design showcased the natural landscape, making it a picturesque yet challenging course for golfers.
1929
Expansion to an 18-hole course
The completion of the 18-hole course and the clubhouse marked the club’s transition into a full-fledged country club. The clubhouse became a social hub, featuring amenities like a dining area, locker rooms, and a pro shop, further enhancing the club’s appeal.
1931
Lonnquist sells the property
The Great Depression severely impacted Lonnquist’s finances, leading to the sale. Wilson’s rebranding aimed to revitalize the club, attracting both local residents and outside members. Under Wilson’s management, the club maintained its semi-private status, balancing accessibility and exclusivity.
1950
Henry Sophie acquires the club from Wilson
Sophie’s tenure focused on maintaining the club’s facilities and ensuring a steady membership base. He managed to keep the club operational and stable during the post-war era, a time when many similar institutions faced closures.
1958
Richard Hauff purchases the club from Sophie
Hauff, known for his ambitious nature, saw the potential for the club to gain national recognition. He invested in significant renovations, modernizing the facilities and the course to attract prestigious tournaments and elevate the club’s status in the golfing community.
1959
Club hosts the Women’s Masters PGA tournament
This event was a highlight of Hauff’s ownership, bringing national attention to the club. It showcased the course’s challenging design and Hauff’s improvements, temporarily boosting membership and public interest.
1960
Richard Hauff declares bankruptcy
Despite the success of the Women’s Masters, financial mismanagement and debts led Hauff to bankruptcy. This crisis threatened the club’s future until the Mt. Prospect community intervened.
1961
Mt. Prospect Park District acquires course
The community’s decision to purchase the club ensured its preservation as a public asset. This transition marked a new era, with the course becoming more accessible to the general public while still maintaining high standards of maintenance and service.
2003
Original clubhouse is demolished
The discovery of the time capsule provided a nostalgic glimpse into the club’s past, connecting current members and the community with the club’s rich history. The demolition made way for modern facilities while respecting the club’s legacy.
2004
Construction of the new clubhouse
The construction of the new clubhouse aimed to provide state-of-the-art facilities while preserving the historical essence of the club. Designed to meet contemporary standards, the new clubhouse included modern amenities such as expanded dining areas, updated locker rooms, and improved event spaces, enhancing the overall experience for members and guests.
2015
David Esler undertakes a restoration project
Esler’s restoration paid tribute to the original design principles of early 20th-century golf architecture. The introduction of replica holes, such as Reverse Redan and Biarritz, revitalized the course, blending historical elements with modern playability and ensuring its relevance in contemporary golf.