The History Of Oakwood Country Club
“It was the social tool for Jewish folks, and while we couldn’t go anywhere else because they would not have us, being a member of Oakwood was like a coat of arms.”
Founded in 1881, Oakwood Country Club holds a unique position as one of only two clubs in the United States that began as a Jewish club and has since earned its place on the National Historic Registry — a truly remarkable distinction. Adding to this legacy, Oakwood is also part of an exclusive group of just 35 private clubs out of 4,000 nationwide, including such well-known clubs as Oakmont Country Club, Merion Golf Club, Baltusrol Golf Club, and Winged Foot Golf Club, that have been granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit status to ensure the preservation of its rich history. Fewer than 1% of private clubs across the country are listed on the National Historic Registry, and only a select few hold this rare 501(c)(3) designation, underscoring Oakwood’s exceptional commitment to safeguarding its heritage for generations to come.
It was a known fact that from the 1880s, when the Progress Club was founded, through the 1960s, Jews were not permitted in several of the more prestigious social or business clubs in Kansas City. The same also held true for country clubs through the 1980s. This was a contributing factor to Oakwood’s success.
As the city grew and recreational trends evolved, so did the Club’s vision. In 1911, Oakwood secured its current location just outside city limits with the purchase of the W.A. Rule Farm for $50,000. Transforming the historic property into its permanent home that same year, renowned course architect Tom Bendelow designed the original nine hole course, with an additional nine added in 1923.
The Progress Club/Oakwood offered a haven for a community facing antisemitism and housing discrimination throughout the decades and its story is a testament to perseverance, progress, and pride.
Throughout the decades, Oakwood has continued to evolve while honoring its rich heritage. In 1991, legendary golfer Tom Watson contributed to the redesign of key holes, adding a modern touch to the course’s classic layout. A major milestone came in 2020, when celebrated golf course architects Todd Clark and Ron Whitten—led by managing principal Ken Block—oversaw a complete transformation of the championship course. Their work was nationally recognized, earning Oakwood the distinction of 3rd Best Golf Course Transformation in America by Golf Digest.
- The transformed 18-hole course features tee options from 4,500 to over 7,150 yards, culminating in a championship layout now recognized as the most challenging course in the metro area.
- The Putting Cottage and “The Hammer” 12-hole putting course.
- A state-of-the-art Performance Center and transformed Range, rated one of the top 50 practice facilities in the country.
- A lively new Sports Bar and modern Fitness Center
- The Intimidator Par 3 Course, rated #12 in the country in only its first year.
- New and expanded Tennis & Pickleball Center.
- Numerous clubhouse enhancements and golf course refinements.
Oakwood remains committed to preservation, progress, and excellence. We’re currently investing an additional $7.5 million in this newest phase of enhancements—finishing touches that will further elevate the member experience and highlight the beauty and historical relevance of the Club‘s facilities.
- An expanded children’s pool and brand-new splash pad
- Enhanced lounging and poolside spaces.
- A newly renovated snack bar and poolside center.
- Brand new boys and girls locker rooms.
- A refreshed and expanded Golf Shop.
A new second-floor entertainment space, The Lofts, which includes an upscale speakeasy lounge, boardroom, and business center with private workspaces. This new renovation, replaces the apartments and living spaces used by club members in the 1930s and 1940s before roads were extended to the club. Features of the renovation will capture the beauty of the property from this period.
Additional refinements to the golf course and infrastructure systems throughout the clubhouse.
These continued investments ensure Oakwood is not only the premier private club in Kansas City—but a rising name on the national stage.
These investments will also preserve the historic facilities of the Club.