In 1911, Mr. William J. Patterson, founder of Hayes and Hayes Bank in Aberdeen purchased a ranch outside of Aberdeen. He enlisted the help of John Ball for course design services. Mr. Ball also designed or played a part in designing courses such as Seattle Golf Club , Bellingham Country Club, and Meadow Park Golf Course. Grays Harbor Golf Club, as it was known then, opened in 1912 with Mr. Ball as its first golf professional.
In 1922, Grays Harbor Country Club received design alterations by Walter Fovargue. Mr. Fovargue also designed local courses such as Highland Golf Course, Oaksridge Golf Course, Willapa Harbor Golf Course, and Olympia Golf & Country Club.
Also in 1922, Mrs. W.J. Patterson urged the women of the state of Washington to begin holding their own golf championships. Mrs. Patterson invited the women golfers in the state of Washington to a tournament at Grays Harbor Golf Club and from there, the Washington State Women’s Golf Association was born. According to the WSWGA, Mrs. Patterson defeated Mrs. Young in the inaugural tournament in 1922 and defended her title in 1923.
Today, the rich history of Grays Harbor Country Club is displayed on the walls of the clubhouse with various photos and club championship plaques. Stop by to learn more!