By Hinsdale Magazine Staff | Photos courtesy of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

The Preserve at Oak Meadows is marking 100 years of history, reflecting the evolution of the local community and the game of golf itself. Tracing its roots to the old Elmhurst Country Club (ECC), the original golf course experienced notable glory over its long history, including the legendary 1941 Chicago Open. That year, ECC hosted top golf stars, with Ben Hogan emerging victorious over the likes of Sam Snead, Gene Sarazen, and Craig Wood.

As the city of Chicago grew, the local land became a prime destination for golf enthusiasts. In the early years, the need to expand was recognized beyond the original 9-hole course in Elmhurst, now the site of York High School. By 1927, the ECC had built a more extensive, expansive 18-hole course along Salt Creek (900 North Wood Dale Road) and a stunning Tudor-style clubhouse. The course and clubhouse garnered national recognition, particularly during the 1941 Chicago Open.

As suburban development encroached on the surrounding area, the ECC maintained its open space, standing out amidst growing urbanization. The private club, however, gradually became obsolete. In 1985, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County (FPDDC) saw the value in preserving the land and purchased the ECC, ensuring it would remain a space for recreation.

After the acquisition by the FPDDC and renaming it to Oak Meadows Golf Club, the public welcomed the course. But in February 2009, lightning struck the original ECC Tudor clubhouse, ultimately destroying the iconic structure and a relic from the private club era. It was a pivotal moment that ultimately forced leaders to rethink the future of the property, and in 2015, the FPDDC approved $16.8 million to renovate the course.

“It was a moment to pause and consider our priorities and the property and needs,” said Ed Stevenson, who manages the Forest Preserve District’s three golf courses. “As a land preservation agency, we had to step back and treat it like our other properties. We had to tackle the first problem, which was the frequent and chronic flooding (the course was often referred to as ‘Soaked Meadows’) due to Salt Creek, which runs through the heart of the course,” he said.

Fast forward to 2017, and The Preserve at Oak Meadows emerged from an ambitious two-year improvement project led by golf course architect Greg Martin. Martin understood the assignment —reinvent the property while working with the environment and not against it. Dubbed the “Oak Meadows Project,” the transformation focused on improving stormwater management, restoring water quality in Salt Creek, and enhancing fish and wildlife habitats while creating a world-class 18-hole golf course.

The result? A “golf preserve” with a sustainable layout that spans 288 acres and is accessible and environmentally friendly while still providing a challenging experience for golfers. “180 million gallons of water are stored within the preserve, which takes on 20 million more gallons of water than pre-renovation. But the increased stormwater capacity is designed to go into flood plains and wetlands and not the tees and greens,” said Stevenson.

And it provides more than just a place to drive and putt. “It is multipurpose,” said Stevenson. “We are able to connect with the broader community. To appreciate it, you don’t have to be a golfer. The Preserve at Oak Meadows offers open space for the community and improved recreation.” Stevenson points to walking trails and cross-country ski trails during the off-season for community members to enjoy.

With the completion of the clubhouse and the Greenway Tap restaurant in the fall of 2021, indoor activities have taken shape as well. Programs such as “Conservation and Cocktails” led by environmental interpreters have been well received by the public. It also furthers ties to the community, such as hosting events like the Elmhurst Children’s Assistance Foundation fundraiser.

Overall, the Preserve at Oak Meadows is a cherished destination for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers. It also stands as a testament to the legacy of Elmhurst Country Club by balancing the game’s rich history with a modern commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

Hinsdale Magazine Group thanks the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County for contributing to this story.

The clubhouse and Greenway Tap restaurant were completed in the fall of 2021.

Ben Hogan at the legendary
1941 Chicago Open at Elmhurst Country
Club – now The Preserve at Oak Meadows.