Mohawk Golf Club has been a cornerstone of golf tradition in the Capital Region for more than century. Its story begins in 1896, when the Schenectady Golf Club was organized by S. Dana Greene, later a charter member of Mohawk. The original course, known as the Iroquois Course, featured 9 holes stretching 2,800 yards across 40 acres near the intersection of Nott Street and Rosa Road.
Around the same time, Rudolph Romeling, another future Mohawk charter member, helped establish the College Hill Golf Club, a 9-hole layout on Union College property. These two early clubs laid the foundation for what would become Mohawk Golf Club.
On November 2nd, 1898, the Schenectady Union newspaper announced a milestone: "Mohawk Golf Club, it was incorporated with the Secretary of State today." Just two days later, 9 founders elected the club's first officers:
- President: E. Wilbur Rice Jr.
- Vice President: J.A. Van Voast
- Secretary: Harold Footman
- Treasurer: Howard Levis
Both Schenectady Golf Club and College Hill Golf Club merged into Mohawk Golf Club, marking the official beginning of our legacy.
| Early Years and GrowthIn 1902, members renovated the Smitely farmhouse on Troy Road, purchased from member J.W. Smitely, creating a new clubhouse. By November 30th, 1903, the club vacated its original links and clubhouse on Rosa Road, which was later acquired by Edison Golf Club. |
Trails and TriumphsMohawk endured two devasting clubhouse fires:
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| Modern Additionsin 1956, construction began on the Wee Course, a short 9-hole par 3 designed for practice and junior play. It was completed in 1957, adding another dimension to the Mohawk experience. |