A Brief History of Golf in Texas: From Cattle Ranches to Championship Greens

Texas, known for its vast landscapes and cowboy culture, might not be the first place you’d associate with golf. Yet, the Lone Star State has a rich and fascinating golf history that dates back to the late 19th century. Over the years, Texas has grown into a golfing powerhouse, producing legends, hosting major tournaments, and offering some of the finest courses in the world.

The Early Days: Golf Arrives in Texas

Golf made its way to Texas in the late 1800s, brought by European settlers and local enthusiasts eager to try the sport sweeping across the Atlantic. The state’s first golf course, Brackenridge Park Golf Course, opened in San Antonio in 1916. Designed by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast, it became a cornerstone of Texas golf history and remains a cherished public course today.

In the early 20th century, the game gained momentum, with courses popping up in major cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston. Golf clubs became gathering spots, blending sport with social life, and the Texan love affair with golf was born.

The Rise of Texas Golf Legends

Texas has been home to some of the most iconic figures in golf.

• Byron Nelson, known as “Lord Byron,” set a seemingly unbreakable record of 11 consecutive PGA Tour wins in 1945.
• Ben Hogan, often called the greatest ball striker in history, honed his game in Fort Worth. His work ethic and determination became the stuff of legend.
• Lee Trevino, the charismatic “Merry Mex,” rose from humble beginnings in Dallas to become a six-time major champion, inspiring generations of golfers.

These legends didn’t just play the game—they shaped it, setting standards that continue to influence golf worldwide.

Texas Golf Goes Big: Tournaments and Iconic Courses

By the mid-20th century, Texas was firmly on the golfing map. The state began hosting major tournaments like the Texas Open (now the Valero Texas Open), which started in 1922 and is one of the oldest PGA Tour events.

Iconic courses like Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, home of the Charles Schwab Challenge, and Champions Golf Club in Houston, which has hosted U.S. Opens and Ryder Cups, cemented Texas as a destination for championship golf.

Modern Texas Golf: A Legacy of Excellence

Today, Texas boasts more than 900 courses, ranging from public gems to luxurious private clubs. Its favorable weather and diverse terrain make it an ideal setting for year-round play. Moreover, Texas continues to produce elite players, including recent stars like Jordan Spieth and Scottie Scheffler, who are carrying the state’s golf legacy into the future.

The Heart of Golf in Texas

Golf in Texas isn’t just about the courses or the tournaments—it’s about the spirit. It’s about playing a round under the big Texas sky, where tradition meets innovation, and the love of the game runs deep. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a golfing powerhouse, Texas has cemented itself as a vital part of golf history.

So next time you’re out on a Texas course, take a moment to appreciate the journey that brought the game here. It’s a story as bold and enduring as the state itself.