About
William F. Gordon co-founded the American Society of Golf Course Architects and was its president from 1953 to 1954.
William F. Gordon (1893–1973) was a prominent American golf course architect who left a significant mark on mid-century golf design. Born in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Gordon began his career after World War I as an athletic instructor in the Navy before entering the seed industry, eventually overseeing golf course construction for Carter’s Tested Seed Company. Working for esteemed architects such as Donald Ross, Willie Park Jr., and Devereux Emmet provided him with invaluable experience. In 1923, Gordon joined Toomey and Flynn, a firm noted for major projects like Shinnecock Hills and Merion. After World War II, Gordon founded the William F. Gordon Co., where he began designing and building courses independently and, after 1953, collaborated closely with his son David. Gordon’s designs, including Saucon Valley’s Grace and Weyhill courses and the Stanwich Club, are celebrated for their honest layouts and minimal artificial ornamentation. He also co-founded the American Society of Golf Course Architects and served as its president.
