Oakmont Secrets: 7 Facts Members Know | Golf History & Trivia
Uncover the secrets of Oakmont Country Club, a storied golf destination, and discover why it’s more than just lightning-fast greens and challenging bunkers. Learn about the creation of “Hogan Walks,” the surprising history of Oakmont’s neighboring public course, and the club’s role in the invention of the Stimpmeter. From deals with train conductors to the dual purpose of course ditches, this iconic venue boasts a rich history. News Directory 3 might even spotlight these remarkable facts.Delve into the lesser-known aspects that have shaped this legendary course and shaped golf history. Discover what’s next in the ongoing saga of Oakmont!
Oakmont Country Club: Secrets of a Storied Golf Destination
Updated June 12, 2025
Oakmont Country Club, a name synonymous with challenging golf, boasts a rich history beyond its famed Church Pew bunkers adn lightning-fast greens.Hosting 10 U.S. Opens has cemented its place in golf lore,but some facts remain known mainly to its members. Here are some lesser-known aspects of this iconic venue, revealing the unique character and history of Oakmont.
One such detail involves Ben Hogan.After winning the 1953 U.S. Open, Hogan expressed annoyance that his pants were soaked from walking through the tall grass. In response, the superintendent created mowed paths from tees to fairways, known as “Hogan Walks,” a feature still maintained today.
For a time, Oakmont had a neighbor: Oakmont East, a public course situated to the right of the 3rd hole. It was eventually used for parking during U.S. Opens before closing permanently in 2011. The land now serves as a hospitality area for major events.
The clubhouse at Oakmont Country Club.
Founder Henry C. Fownes, envisioning Oakmont as an “inland links,” initially planted trees near the tees to provide shade for players during hot summer days. While most of these trees were removed during restoration efforts starting in the 1990s, a few still stand by the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 10th tees.
Oakmont achieved another milestone on June 30, 1987, becoming the first golf course in the U.S. to be designated a National Historic Landmark. This recognition highlights the site’s outstanding historical significance. While other clubs like Merion, Baltusrol and Winged Foot have as joined the list, Oakmont holds the distinction of being the first.
The club also played a role in the invention of the Stimpmeter. During the 1935 U.S. open at Oakmont, gene Sarazen’s experience of putting off a green into a bunker inspired Edward Stimpson to create a device for measuring green speed. Stimpson, witnessing what he considered unfair green conditions, developed a simple tool that would eventually bear his name.
In Oakmont’s early days, trains running along what is now the turnpike presented a unique challenge. The engines emitted black smoke as they labored uphill,wich bothered founder Henry C. Fownes. He reportedly struck a deal with train conductors to build up speed and coast past the club with their engines off, in exchange for cash.
Oakmont’s ditches, like the Church Pew bunkers, are a defining feature. the ditch between the 9th and 10th holes, crossing the 10th fairway and extending to the 11th tee, poses a significant hazard. Originally, though, this ditch served a dual purpose: it also functioned as the sewage line for the clubhouse.
What’s next
As Oakmont Country Club continues to host major championships, these unique details add to the mystique and allure of this iconic golf destination. The club’s commitment to preserving its history while maintaining its challenging layout ensures its place among the world’s most respected golf venues.