If you enjoy playing or watching golf, you’re in good company—even Julius Caesar played a version of the game. Today, more than 24 million Americans play golf and even more watch golfing events on television. But where did the sport come from? 

The Early Days of Golf

Although credit for the modern version of the sport is typically given to Scotland, different variations have been played as far back as the Roman empire. The earliest type of golf was a game called paganica, in which players hit a stuffed leather ball with bent tree limbs. Around the same time, a similar version of the game was taking shape in China. 

However, it wasn’t until 15^th century Scotland that modern golfing was developed. The pastime became so popular that it was banned by King James II for interfering with military practice, but that ban was lifted in 1500. Over the next 200 years, the game was played throughout the British Isles, even by royalty.

The first official rules were established in 1744, but it wasn’t until 1764 that the game shifted from 22 holes to 18 holes, which still remains the standard. 

The Modern Game of Golf

The first golf tournaments were played in England in the mid-1800s, and the craze has not let up since. The first 18-hole golf course in the U.S. opened in Chicago in 1893, and the United States Golf Association (USGA) was founded in 1894. The governing body of the sport, the Professional Golf Association, was founded in 1916. By the 1920s, golf was a popular spectator sport, and the PGA Tour continues to draw crowds to events worldwide. 

Golfing remains so popular that the sport made a return to the Olympics in 2016, after a 112-year absence. More than 434 million rounds were played in 2018 alone, and more than 33 million people say they are interested in learning how to play.

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or want to learn how to play, head to Corey Creek Golf Club in Mansfield, PA. This scenic 71-par course has attracted golfers throughout Lake and Canyon counties since 1927. The state-of-the-art 18-hole course hosts several annual tournaments and features a well-stocked pro shop. Enjoy their beautiful clubhouse with an exclusive menu and full-service bar. Call (570) 662-3520 today to schedule a tee time or visit the course online to see their rates.