A Journey Through Time
The Wilmington Country Club (WCC) has a rich history that dates back to its founding on April 22, 1901. However, its origins traceback to 1882 when the Delaware Cricket Club was established on the front porch of the Tatnall mansion. Over the years, the Delaware Cricket Club evolved into the Delaware Field Club, eventually becoming the Wilmington Country Club in 1901, following a merger of its members. The Club's first golf course was completed by August 1901, with a nine-hole layout later expanded to 18. The new Clubhouse, designed by architect E.J. Dallet, was finished in 1902. Over the years, the Wilmington Country Club became a hub for sports and social gatherings. By 1913, the Club's membership had grown, and it started hosting national events such as the Women’s National Golf Championship in 1913. In the 1920s, tennis, squash, and trap shooting also gained popularity. The Club played a significant role during the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918, serving as a temporary hospital for local victims. The Clubhouse was tragically destroyed by fire in 1924 but was rebuilt the following year. In the mid-20th century, the Club expanded its facilities significantly. In 1945, it acquired land in Concordville, Pennsylvania, and by 1962, a new Clubhouse and enhanced sports facilities were completed at the Kirk Road location. The new complex included two championship golf courses, a tennis facility, squash courts, and an Olympic-length swimming pool. The Club continued to host prestigious events, including Davis Cup matches, the U.S. Amateur Championship, and numerous golf and tennis exhibitions featuring legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.
The Wilmington Country Club's legacy continued with a commitment to growth and excellence. In 2001, the Club celebrated its centennial with a yearlong celebration and the establishment of the Wilmington Country Club Centennial Scholarship Program. Over the following decades, the Club made continuous improvements to its facilities, including a major expansion in 2014. The Club also hosted major events, such as the 2022 BMW Championship, which had a $30 million economic impact on the region. With a history of hosting top-tier events and providing exceptional facilities for its members, the Wilmington Country Club remains a pillar of the community and a testament to over a century of tradition and growth.