Fred Chisholm

Fred Chisholm was a prominent early golf course architect and superintendent in New England during the early 20th century. Along with his brother Alex, Fred co-designed the front nine of Martindale Country Club in Maine, which opened for play in 1921. The course was routed through woods and dairy pasture, reflecting a traditional approach tied closely to the land. As Martindale’s first golf course superintendent, Fred helped establish and maintain the course, contributing substantially to its early reputation and enduring legacy. The Chisholm brothers were also known as formidable competitors in New England’s professional golf tournaments, and their work was foundational in expanding golf’s footprint throughout Maine. Fred’s influence remains evident at Martindale, and his early efforts exemplify the grassroots growth of golf course architecture in the region. While not as widely recognized as some contemporaries, his hands-on design and maintenance work played a crucial role in shaping the character of Maine golf.