About Us

1903

The Founding

In April 1903, a group of prominent Buffalo leaders formed The Park Club of Buffalo when the Country Club of Buffalo relocated to Amherst. Charter members included Dr. Roswell Park and Bronson Rumsey. The Club was founded “to establish and maintain an organization for social, athletic and recreative purposes,” laying the foundation for what would become one of Western New York’s most enduring private institutions.

1903-1909

Elmwood and Nottingham Years

The Club quickly flourished on Elmwood Avenue, merging with the Buffalo Golf Club to create a full eighteen-hole course. By 1909, membership had reached its limit of 800, with a waiting list forming soon thereafter.

When the Rumsey Estate sold surrounding land, the clubhouse was physically moved on rollers to Nottingham and Lincoln Parkway — a bold and defining moment that reflected the Club’s determination to endure and evolve.

1916-1917

Orchard Park: A “Summer Course” 

Recognizing the importance of property ownership, the Club acquired land in Orchard Park in 1916. The course, designed by Walter J. Travis, opened on August 25, 1917.

The Orchard Park property became known as the Club’s “summer course,” and the annual Harry Yates Tournament honors that important chapter in the Club’s early growth.

1925-1928

Williamsville: A Permanent Home

In 1925, the Club purchased over 110 acres of the Klopp Estate in Williamsville, securing a permanent future.

In 1926, the internationally renowned architectural firm Colt & Allison was engaged to design the golf course. On August 28, 1928, Ganson Depew drove the ceremonial first tee shot, marking the beginning of a new era at Park Country Club.

1927-1928

The Tudor-Style Clubhouse

• Cornerstone laid: September 27, 1927

• Opening Day: December 22, 1928

Designed by architect Clifford C. Wendehack, the clubhouse was conceived in English Gothic style built around a Tudor tower. Constructed of blended stone and brick and featuring stained glass windows, oak wainscoting, vaulted ceilings, and an iconic octagonal grill room, the $900,000 structure quickly became one of Western New York’s architectural treasures.

The clubhouse remains a defining symbol of Park Country Club’s heritage and distinction.

1933

Resilience During the Great Depression

During the Great Depression, the Club endured bankruptcy in 1933. Through disciplined governance and restructuring, the organization stabilized and emerged stronger — a testament to the resolve and stewardship of its membership.

1934

A National Stage: PGA Championship

From July 24–29, 1934, Park Country Club hosted the PGA Championship. One hundred fourteen players qualified, and Paul Runyan captured the title in dramatic sudden-death fashion.

The championship firmly placed Park on the national golf map. In 1999, Runyan returned for a recognition ceremony, and a commemorative plaque was placed near the first tee to honor the historic event.

1936

The Park Club Invitational

In 1936, the Club established its first Invitational Tournament to promote amateur golf and camaraderie among members and guests. What began as a member-guest competition with dinners and social events evolved into one of the Club’s most cherished traditions. The Park Club Invitational is still held annually and is viewed as the premier event amongst our membership. 

1943-1966

The Pritchard Era

Jack Pritchard became head golf professional in 1943 and served for 23 years. Widely respected as a “pro’s pro,” he developed generations of elite golfers and elevated the Club’s competitive excellence.

His portrait hangs in the grill room today, and the annual Pritchard Tournament continues in his honor.

1945

Hands Across the Border

A friendly international competition with Mississaugua Golf & Country Club began in the 1930s and was formalized in 1945. Today, it remains one of the longest-running club competitions between the United States and Canada.

The tradition reflects Park’s enduring emphasis on fellowship, sportsmanship, and lasting friendships

1960-1961

The Swimming Pool & Family Era

After years of discussion, construction of the swimming pool began in 1960, with opening day on July 10, 1961.

The addition of aquatics transformed Park into a more family-oriented club and gave rise to the Park Club Sharks swim team. Membership increased significantly, and the Club’s role as a multi-generational gathering place was firmly established

1988

National Golf Involvement

Park members served as marshals at major championships including the 1988 U.S. Open, 1989 U.S. Open, 1995 Ryder Cup, and 2003 PGA Championship at Oak Hill and beyond.

This reciprocal relationship with Oak Hill Country Club, dating back to 1907, reflects Park’s deep connection to championship golf.

2003

Centennial Year

The Club celebrated its Centennial in 2003 with a commemorative Invitational Tournament, the construction of the Centennial Walkway, and numerous member-led initiatives that honored its first 100 years.

2012–2013

The Runyan Room

After years of planning and discussion, the membership of Park Country Club approved a multi-million-dollar project to expand the Club’s dining spaces. With membership continuing to grow and demand for dining and private events increasing, a new bar and dining room were constructed adjacent to the existing Grill Room. In recognition of the Club’s storied golf history, the newly created space was named The Runyan Room, honoring Paul Runyan, the professional golfer who captured the 1934 PGA Championship at Park Country Club. Today, the Runyan Room is one of the most popular gathering spaces in the clubhouse and is used daily by members for dining, cocktails, and socializing.

Today

Park Country Club Today 

From its founding in 1903 to its nationally recognized championships, architectural distinction, financial resilience, and generational traditions, Park Country Club continues to embody excellence in sport, hospitality, and community.

More than a golf course or clubhouse, Park is a steward of tradition — a place where heritage is preserved, friendships are formed, and families gather across generations.

As it moves confidently through its next century, Park Country Club remains committed to honoring its past while providing an exceptional member experience for the future.