Oakmont Country Club Historic District

Website:
http://www.oakmont-countryclub.org/

Telephone Number:
(412) 828-8000 

Location:
1233 Hulton Road, Oakmont, PA 15139

Description:

Oakmont Country Club, situated mainly in Plum with a small portion in Oakmont, is a renowned establishment in the eastern United States, located in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Founded over a century ago in 1903, its golf course holds the distinction of being the "oldest top-ranked golf course in the United States." Recognized for its historical significance, it was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Notably, a stretch of the Pennsylvania Turnpike divides seven of its holes (2–8) from the rest of the course.

Designed by Henry Fownes, Oakmont's course, created on former farmland, exemplifies a links-style layout. Over the years, the course has undergone significant changes, including the removal of trees and the relocation of the 8th hole to accommodate the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Renowned for its difficulty, it boasts a USGA course rating of 77.5 and features a staggering 175 bunkers, along with large, fast, and undulating greens. Despite its challenges, the course has no water hazards and, since 2007, minimal tree coverage.

Oakmont's course is also known for its unique slope, particularly evident on specific holes where the greens slope away from the fairway. Among its distinctive features is the Church Pews bunker, found on the 3rd and 4th holes, which resembles church pews with its grass-covered ridges.

Notably, Oakmont's bunkers were once groomed using rakes with wider tines, creating deep furrows. However, these rakes were phased out of U.S. Open competition by 1962 and eliminated from the club altogether by 1964.