You can take a peek at living history at the Oakhurst Links golf course at the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, WV. The Scottish game of golf found new enthusiasts here when it was first introduced to West Virginia in 1884. At the time the course was opened, there were a couple of other existing golf clubs, but West Virginia has the oldest golf course in America that has remained in the same location and with the same traditional style of play since its beginning.
Oakhurst Links was one of America's very first golf courses, built in 1884.
Golf was a somewhat different game at that time, and at Oakhurst Links, golf is still played the way it was in its early days in Scotland.
Golfers are encouraged to wear “turn of the century golfing attire," available for purchase at the golf shop.
The golf balls are made from the traditional rubbery sap of the gutta-percha plant.
The clubs are fashioned out of hickory wood.
Early golf courses in Scotland used sheep to keep the grass trimmed.
You'll find sheep here at Oakhurst Links as well, roaming the grounds as golfers enjoy the game.
One year the golf course was home to an orphaned baby deer, as well.
Golf carts are not allowed on the course, but there are only 9 holes instead of 18. Less walking!
For more information about this golf course and the game, see the Greenbrier Resort website.
West Virginia has more than just the oldest golf course in America. We also have the oldest movie theater in America! The Robey Theatre in Spencer, WV claims to be the oldest continuously operating movie theater in the United States.
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