The second in a series on golf courses and pros who serve the Middle Peninsula of Virginia
In its 80-plus year existence, the Gloucester
Country Club has enjoyed a unique history, one which has shadowed that of the
Middle Peninsula region. As a centerpiece of the community, the Club has played
host to numerous events and served as more than simply a local recreation
outlet.
Current owners John and Bobbie Firth have maintained
a scrapbook since purchasing the club in 1960. The following excerpts are
highlights of Gloucester Country Club in the news, culled from the archives of
local publications.
Thursday, August 23, 1928 – Twenty five men are at
work at Country Club of Gloucester on what will be one of the finest and most
up-to-date nine-hole golf courses in Virginia. The course has been laid out for
18 holes, the other nine holes to be constructed later. (Note: Construction on
the golf course began in 1924.)
Friday, June 20, 1930 – The first of a series of
women’s golf tournaments, held at the Gloucester Country Club, was a great
success with the ladies showing much interest and skill.
Thursday, October 15, 1931 – Gloucester Country Club
holds an “open house” marking the formal opening of its recently completed
clubhouse. Tea was served from four to six in the afternoon, and a dance was
held later that evening. Music was provided by an orchestra from Richmond.
Tuesday, October 16, 1933 – Bobby McWatt,
professional of the Gloucester County Golf Club and a widely known golfer in
Tidewater, was acquitted by a jury in the circuit court of a charge of hit and
run. The incident occurred near Armistead Avenue and Queen Street in Hampton.
McWatt denied leaving the scene of the accident and said that he went to see
the victim, as well as offered to call a physician if necessary.
Thursday, July 8, 1937 – Mrs. Madeline Rawlings won
the $5 prize offered by President John T. DuVal of the Young Democratic Club of
Gloucester for enrolling the most new members. The club’s drive was highlighted
with a dance at the Country Club of Gloucester. Rawlings signed up 91 of the
250 members enrolled during the campaign.
June 1939 – Green fees at the Gloucester Country
Club are reduced to 50 cents for weekdays and 75 cents for Sundays and
holidays.
Thursday, October 25, 1945 – Clearing and grading
operations continue at the Evans Airport, on the country club field near Gloucester.
When finished it is expected to be one of the best rural airports on the
Eastern seaboard.
May 1, 1946 – Virginia Governor William Tuck
attended an Al Evans winch demonstration in Gloucester, held at the country
club. The guests included South American highway engineers and other
dignitaries. Tuck’s executive secretary at the time, Moss William Armistead III,
went on to become a journalist, eventually rising to become the head of
Landmark Communications, owner of the Weather Channel and The Virginian Pilot.
Thursday, May 26, 1949 – Mrs. H. E. Thomas was
sweepstakes winner in the Garden Club of Gloucester flower show, which was held
at the Gloucester Country Club. Mrs. Louis Maxfield was the tri-color winner.
Thursday, July 4, 1957 – Miss Linda Darden of
“Exchange” and Drew Carneal of New York and “Eagle Point Plantation,” led the
Cotillion figure at the first Cotillion of the season at the Gloucester Golf
Club. Attractive favors were distributed to the guests and the dance was a gala
occasion for the Gloucester, Mathews and Richmond members of the social set.
1960 – The Firths and C.B. Raby purchase the course.
Raby becomes the manager.
1962 – Firth takes over managerial duties, and is
still working at the club 50 years later.
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