ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
Essex County Club hosted the U.S. Women's Amateur twice in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the 2010 Curtis Cup, highlighting its storied competitive history.
About
Located on Boston’s North Shore, Essex County Club is a historic private club featuring a Donald Ross-designed course completed in 1917. The layout maintains much of its original strategy and character, routing through rolling terrain with thoughtfully placed bunkers and challenging greens. The club offers a traditional walking experience with year-round amenities and maintains a reputation as one of New England's top courses.
Caddie Tip
To succeed at Essex, pay close attention to wind direction and the firmness of the fairways. Aim for the ideal side of each fairway to get the proper angle to Ross’s contoured greens, and remember that many approach shots play longer or shorter than the yardage due to undulations.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge at Essex is mastering the approach shots into small, undulating greens, protected by deep bunkers and natural runoffs. Wind off the coast and subtle elevation shifts add to the test, forcing precise club selection and strategic play throughout the round.
The Good
Golfers rave about the course’s classic Donald Ross design, especially the strategic bunkering, rolling natural terrain, and variety between holes. The historic setting, walkable routing, and coastal location add to its reputation as a uniquely New England golf experience that repeatedly earns a place among America’s top classic courses.
The Not So Good
Some players note that variability in turf conditions—especially after periods of rain—can affect the consistency of fairways and rough. Additionally, the private nature of the club limits public access, making it difficult for non-members to experience the celebrated history and design.
Signature Hole:
#
3
The par 5 3rd hole is a standout, routed over a tidal flood plain and requiring a tee shot that avoids runoff areas and a stream on the left. Massive bunkers guard the right. The green, dating back to 1893, is the oldest in the country, featuring a pronounced swale and tricky contours, making this a challenging and historic three-shotter.
Clubhouse
The expanded clubhouse delivers upscale dining in both formal and casual settings, eight overnight rooms for members, and a lively social calendar. The facility supports a traditional country club atmosphere and provides spaces for family and member events year-round.
Practice Facilities
The club offers a full practice range and short game area, ideal for both warm-ups and skill development. Additional on-site amenities include grass and clay tennis courts, a swimming pool, and robust racquet sport facilities, providing a full suite of activities for members.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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