Golf History Btcc

Celebrating a century
of golfing excellence

Explore Our History

Welcome to the rich history of Bemidji Town & Country Club (BTCC), a golf haven on the north shore of beautiful Lake Bemidji. Established in 1916, our 18-hole, semi-private, member-owned golf course has witnessed significant transformations, with major revisions in 1990 and updates in 2014. With nearly 400 members, BTCC warmly welcomes both members and the public to experience its scenic beauty and challenging greens.

Home to the prestigious Birchmont Golf Tournament every July and the Vandersluis International Golf Tournament on Labor Day weekend, BTCC is more than just a golf course. We've hosted numerous events, including those by the Minnesota State High School League and the Minnesota Golf Association. In 2016, we were honored to be the site of the Minnesota PGA Professional Championship.

Open to the public since the early 1970’s, the North Shore Grille at BTCC is a local gem, offering delightful breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Its distinctive charm lies in the breathtaking vistas of the golf course and Lake Bemidji. With an idyllic setting, the venue has set the stage for weddings, gatherings and celebrations for more than 50 years.

Celebrating a vibrant golfing community, 2021 saw nearly 30,000 rounds played at BTCC, a testament to our enduring appeal. Sir Walter Hagen, in 1925, described our course as "a wonderful course" – a sentiment echoed by golfers throughout the years. Our commitment to maintaining a naturally beautiful, well-maintained course in an unparalleled setting is evident in every round played.

Bemidji Sentinel July 22, 1925

“This is a wonderful course,” declared Hagen at the conclusion of the game. “It is what we golfers call a ‘loveable’ course because we like to play that kind. Naturally beautiful,well maintained and in a setting that is hard to equal, you should indeed be proud of your advantages. From what I could see of your new nine holes they are equally delightful and I certainly want to express my appreciation.”

– Walter Hagen after shooting a course record 33 en route to defeating Bemidji Country Club professional Joel Dahlman in an exhibition match.

Circa 1927

Back In The Day

"The Bemidji course, considered the most beautifully located in the northwest..." "Besides having a sporty course, the Bemidji Country Club boasts one of the most attractive clubhouses in the northwest a large comfortable two-story building situated on an elevation immediately overlooking Lake Bemidji. It is equipped with lockers and showers, in addition to a spacious living room, dressing rooms, kitchen and shop for the club professional." (Minneapolis Star Tribune, July 17, 1927)

Photo credit: Beltrami County History Center

Btcc 1926