Carmel Country Club: The first 50 years

by Frye Gaillard

The story began when a group of prominent businessmen envisioned a new golf and social club for Charlotte. Banks McClintock, who was chosen to head the membership committee, suggested that they call the club Green Valley. Herbert Hitch suggested Meadowbrook Country Club. A discussion followed, with no trace of progress, until Gayle Rodgers finally came up with a solution. Instead of trying for something poetic, why not simply name the club for the road which skirted the ragged edge of their land? And that is how Carmel Country Club got its name. The first clubhouse opened in 1949, and the golf course, designed by George Cobb, opened in 1950. In 1965, membership had grown to over 500 members facilitating the need for a new clubhouse, pool and expanded golf facilities. In November 1967, the current clubhouse was completed. In 1967, work started on the North Course, and in 1998 it was expanded to 18 holes and to a par 72. In 1998, the clubhouse was expanded to include the Grill, new kitchens and Fitness Center. The classic warmth of Carmel, symbolized by the lamppost lined drive, is always apparent, drawing new faces in and telling the story of its past.

122 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1997