Our History
From uncertain beginnings in the early twentieth century to the thriving 18-hole club enjoyed today, Enniscorthy Golf Club has been shaped by generations of dedicated members, officers and friends.
A club built by generations
Historical records place golf in Enniscorthy in the opening years of the twentieth century. Through relocation, land purchase, clubhouse development and course expansion, the club grew into one of County Wexford’s most established golfing institutions.
Uncertain beginnings
The club’s centenary publication described its origins as uncertain. The Golfing Annual listed a club at Enniscorthy in its 1906–1907 edition, and by 1908–1909 recorded honorary secretary P. F. Roche and a membership of 50.
Enniscorthy’s application for affiliation was accepted by the Golfing Union of Ireland in January 1908, with the minutes formally adopted in May. The club later affiliated with the Irish Ladies Golf Union in 1925.
The earliest nine-hole course was recorded as being three-quarters of a mile from the railway station, although its exact location remains a matter of historical discussion.
The development of the club
Key moments in the growth of Enniscorthy Golf Club and its course.
The first recorded club
The Golfing Annual records a golf club at Enniscorthy, later listing 50 members and P. F. Roche as honorary secretary.
GUI affiliation
The Golfing Union of Ireland accepts Enniscorthy Golf Club’s application for affiliation in January, with the decision formally recorded in May.
A new course is planned
Contemporary reports state that land near the town had been secured. W. C. Pickman, associated with the original nine holes at Portmarnock, was asked to prepare the layout.
Land purchase and improvement
The club completed the purchase of the land and began a two-part programme of course improvement, supported by the dedication and generosity of members.
The new clubhouse
The new two-storey clubhouse opened in December 1976 and was officially opened in June 1977 by GUI President Pat Foley.
Planning for 18 holes
A subcommittee examined the purchase of additional land. Golf-course architect Eddie Hackett advised that it could support seven new holes, with two more created on the existing course.
The 18-hole course becomes reality
Construction moved forward under Jim Whitney and later Ted Morrissey. The complete 18-hole course was played for the first time on 28 May 1989.
Course refinement
Eddie Hackett and Pat Ruddy oversaw changes that helped shape the course layout enjoyed by members and visitors today.
Two new holes
Additional land was purchased to improve the layout and address safety concerns. Jeff Howes planned the work, which was completed during the club’s centenary year.
The course enjoyed today is the result of the vision, persistence, generosity and hard work of generations of dedicated golfers and friends.
A lasting legacy
The present clubhouse and 18-hole course stand as a tribute to those who gave their time, expertise and support to the club over many decades.
The Jim Whitney Shield continues to honour one of the key figures in the 18-hole development, while later architectural work ensured the course continued to evolve safely and successfully.
Members and visitors now enjoy the results of that long tradition of stewardship in a mature parkland setting.
Discover more of our story
The limited-edition centenary publication “Enniscorthy Golf Club 1907–2007” contains further detail about the club, the town and the people who shaped its history. Contact the club for availability.
