Indianwood Golf and Country Club
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Indianwood Golf and Country Club or simply "Indianwood" is a private member-only country club located in Lake Orion, Michigan. The club is approximately 35 miles north of Detroit.
Designed by Wilfred Reid in 1925, the original club features a tower entrance, 18th Century tapestries, leaded glass windows, and Knights in shining armor. The ballroom features a magnificent fireplace complete with an intricate shield carved from wood hanging over the mantle. According to historians, the club quickly became a haven for the wealthy of Detroit seeking to avoid the daily grind of the city. The club became very popular, hosting the Michigan Open in 1928, and even saw the construction of an airstrip. In 1930 the club hosted the Western Open, one of the most prestigious golf events of the time. In 1948 and 1949 it was site of the Michigan PGA Championship.
The 1960s and 1970s saw Indianwood fall into decline, much like the city of Detroit itself. The bustling club fell into disrepair, with holes in the floors and beams hanging from the ceiling. In 1981, businessman Stan Aldridge purchased the building and surrounding land, seeking to restore the club to its former glory. The 30,000 square foot clubhouse and locker room addition was completed in 1989, and eventually a "New Course" for golf would be added to the original. In 1989, the re-established club hosted its largest event, the 1989 U.S. Women's Open (golf). It would host the event again 5 years later, in 1994.
The Aldridge family is still connected to the club through day-to-day operations, new construction, and design. Stan Aldridge would also purchase and develop Canterbury Village, also located in Lake Orion.
