About
Spear designed the Hickory Sticks Golf Course in 1961, a course still recognized today for its thoughtful layout highlighting his signature design elements.
William J. Spear was a notable American golf course architect whose impact is evident throughout the Midwest. Born in Iowa City in 1929, Spear became known for designing, renovating, and consulting on numerous golf courses, including the well-regarded Hickory Sticks Golf Course, opened in 1961. Based for much of his career in St. Charles, Illinois, Spear was a proud member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects and the American Society of Landscape Architects, reflecting both his expertise and reputation in the industry. His work often focused on blending challenging play with natural settings, and several municipal and public courses still bear his influence. Spear’s legacy as both a designer and consultant is underscored by his ability to balance practical layouts with creative elements, contributing to the accessibility of quality golf experiences in the region.
