Early 1900's

The first meeting of the Guelph Country Club's founders was held at Carnegie Hall, and elected Mr. Freer President.  They then formed a Finance and Building Committee to erect a Clubhouse across the river from Riverside Park.  The building was to cost no more than $6500.  At the same time, a Greens Committee was established to prepare the farm grounds for golf, at a cost of no more than $1000.  To access the area, a floating bridge was constructed at the dam on the river, across from Riverside Park.  In the first three years of the Golf Club development, Directors meetings were held at Mr. Freer's house.  A Professional was hired to teach golf every afternoon for 50 cents per hour.  

The original farmland was rough, and to keep the course in trim, it was decided to obtain a herd of sheep and install fences to contain them.  Social activities began at the Clubhouse and fortnightly dances commenced, at a cost of $1.00 for the House and $2.00 for the Steward.  It proved to be a very successful beginning, and by the end of 1915 the membership had reached 336, of which 162 were Shareholders.

However, the war had begun and already 15 members had gone on Active Service overseas.  At that time Golf fees were raised for Men, to an Entrance fee of $20 and an Annual rate of $10.  The Ladies' Entrance was $6.50.  Activities were such that, during the period from May 1st through Oct. 31st, a motor bus service was established to the bottom of the hill, starting at the Post Office every afternoon at 2.30 p.m., running every half hour.  The fare was 10c each.  During this wartime period, about 1917, the Red Cross was actively involved on the course, collecting donations, etc.  

Coincidently, through the kindness of Mr. Arthur Cutten (one of the original members), the Club members were able to witness an exhibition match between Mr. Charles Evans and Mr. George Lyons.  The match was full of interest, as evidenced by the number of spectators who followed the contestants twice around the course.  In the Golfing season, at this time, regular interchanges of Golf matches, occurred with the Galt Country Club and the Weston Golf Club, under the auspices of the then President Dr. A.T. Hobbs.  And, by the end of the War, over 23 members were on Active Service.