As the story goes, the Bethlehem Steel Club, formed in 1934, hired one of the greatest course architects in the game, Donald Ross to not only design, but build a championship golf course in 1946.
The Prestige of the Steel Club
Ross, who is credited with designing over 400 courses around the world, has crafted some of the finest venues in the United States, such as Aronimink, Plainfield, Scioto, Pinehurst #2, Inverness, Oak Hill (East), Oakland Hills (South) and Seminole, all ranked in the top 100 of Americas Greatest Courses. The Steel Club opened for play in 1948 and is regarded as one of Ross’ final designs before his death in ‘48.
Course Creation and Modifications
In Pennsylvania alone, Ross is credited with creating 26 layouts! Although William and David Gordon were involved in the building of the course, make no mistake, this is Donald Ross. In 1986, the powers that be changed the name of the course to Silver Creek Country Club, as it became a private club, managed by its members.
A New Era
Three decades later, local businessman and resident David Spirk, who learned to play golf at the club at a young age when his parents joined in 1951, purchased the venue and made a commitment to invest at least $2.5 million in improvements and to keep it as a private golf club. In addition, Spirk renamed the course back to its original roots, the Steel Club and is determined to make it a top-notch country club.
Plans for the Future
“The plan is for 168 custom homes up on the top ridge behind the driving range,” said head professional Mark Chlebek. “In addition, a nine-hole par three golf course will be built on the land where the original Hill Course was, and a big fitness center and turf bubble is part of the grand scheme with a two-story driving range.”
The Club’s Legacy
The Steel Club has hosted several USGA qualifying events over the years, including the 2024 U.S. Senior Open qualifier. “Although nothing is in the works currently, we are always open to hosting key events, as we enjoy showcasing the place,” added Chlebek.
Unique Course Highlights
How many courses do you know that start off with the hardest hole on the course? This is certainly the case at the Steel Club. The opening hole is a rugged, uphill par four that stretches 444 yards from the silver tees…
An Underrated Treasure
In my estimation, the Steel Club is a hidden gem that flies mostly under the radar of most golf enthusiasts. Let’s start off with the conditions. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another course in the region that’s in better shape from tee through green.
Membership Opportunities
The membership opportunities are endless. From the Full Golf membership, with a very reasonable initiation fee to the Limited Family Golf membership, that features 25 full rounds per household, to the Social Membership, that has a small initiation fee. In addition, there is a clubhouse and a dining membership with no initiation fees. So, the options are quite reasonable.
Conclusion
The bottom line. The Steel Club is a must-play!
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Article Link: Unveiling Golf Hidden Gems: The Underappreciated Steel Club