An Historical Perspective

 It all began in October of 1919, when some of Toronto?s leading bankers, merchants and barristers who were summer residents of Windermere, decided a golf course was needed to make this area an even more desirable place to holiday. Upon receipt of Provincial Letters Patent, land was purchased to be layed out by then Head Professional at Toronto Golf Club, George Cumming.

Among the founders and provisional directors were Lt. Col. James Cooper Mason, Albert Ernest Calvert, Arthur William Treble, Major William Fletcher Eaton, Gordon Nicholas Shaver, James S. Douglas. Among the early shareholders and supporters were G.H. Gundy, E.R. Wood, Hugh C. McLean, Dr. C.M. Hincks, Britton Osler, Mrs. Timothy Eaton, Mrs. E.Y. Eaton, Dr. D.J. Waller and Albert Matthews.

While Land was purchased for 18 holes of golf, only nine holes were in play for a few years. This was increased a few holes at a time until Windermere became a full 18 holes. At the time there were three summer hotels in Windermere - Windermere House, Fife House and Maple Leaf Hotel (today known as the Baldwin's

A review of the first year records indicate there were about 30 shareholder members and an additional 93 green fee tickets sold at $1.00 per game. It is also interesting to note that in the same year $140 was received by the Club for hay from the Club grounds, which is more than the green fees.

The Club has come along way over the past 90 years. Capital improvements over time have brought the Club to a new standard. We wish to include you in the future of Windermere Golf & Country Club.