By Meet William Powell The First Black To Build A Golf Club In The US
Here is a short story about the first African-American to build a professional Golf club in the US. William James “BILL” Powell, the trailblazing African American who became the first to design, build, and own a professional golf course in the United States.
Born in 1916, Powell’s love for golf ignited in his youth. His time as a World War II serviceman only strengthened his resolve to overcome any obstacles.
In 1946, racial segregation denied him access to public golf courses. Undeterred, Bill and his wife Marcella acquired a 78-acre dairy farm near East Canton, Ohio. Together, with a dedicated team, they transformed it into Clearview Golf Club—a beacon of inclusivity in an era of exclusion.
By 1978, Clearview had expanded to 18 holes, welcoming thousands of players each year.
In 1996, Powell was inducted into the National Black Golf Hall of Fame, and his legacy was further cemented when Clearview was designated a National Historic Site.
Today, Bill’s children, Larry and Renee, carry forward his mission, making their own contributions to the golfing world.
In 2009, Bill was honored with the Professional Golfers’ Association of America’s Distinguished Service Award. His life is a testament to unwavering determination and a deep passion for the game.
What's your reaction?
Excited
0
Happy
0
In Love
0
Not Sure
0
Silly
0
