Alexander H. Findlay

Alexander H. Findlay was born in 1863,  was raised in Scotland, and as a child, he was given golf clubs by his mother, with which he instantly fell in love.  He went on to break every course record in and around his hometown while teaching his brothers and friends about golf.

In 1887, at the age of 24, a neighborhood friend invited the young Findlay to join him in America, telling him in letters about the country's beauty, terrain, and opportunity. Findlay came to New York City, and when he asked where the nearest golf course was, the residents of the Big Apple laughed.

Alexander H. Findlay went to Nebraska and met up with his friend as a rancher, and once again, he recognized that there weren't any golf courses, so he built one. His first course was situated on the Merchiston Ranch in Nance County.

A few years later, word spread about a game of chasing a small white ball around a field to a railroad baron named Henry Flagler, who would hire Findlay to build golf courses near his rail line. Flagler needed an attraction for people up north to visit Florida, and this new game of golf became the right tool.

Findlay developed Florida courses that include the oldest, The Breakers at Palm Beach. He also made courses in Montana, Texas, and New England. Findlay earned the title, Father of American Golf, for his contribution and love for the sport. He died in 1942 at the age of 76, having developed more than 130 courses across America.

"When Alex came to America, little to no one was playing golf. When he died, over five million people were playing. So I think he did a pretty good job," said his grandson, Richard Findlay.

Golf Course designed by Alexander H. Findlay

The Breakers Palm Beach, Ocean Course

Palm Beach, FL, United States
Distance: 6253yd Par: 70
The Breakers Palm Beach, Ocean Course is a fantastic 18-hole championship layout that has been nurtured by The Breakers for more than a century. The course offers a remarkable golf experience that honors its heritage and seaside location with modern playability, inspiring players of all levels. In late 2018, the course began a full-scale renovation by...

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