Philling the GAP: Preserve, promote and protect

September 2016

Being old never gets old. Founded in 1897, the Golf Association of Philadelphia is the oldest local or regional association of its kind. With four distinguished facilities in Aronimink Golf Club, Merion Cricket Club, Philadelphia Country Club and Philadelphia Cricket Club within its roots, the Association features 153 Full Member Clubs spread across parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Its mission, which they chose to accept — to preserve, protect and promote the game of golf. Preservation in the ongoing historical documentation of all GAP events, services and activities. Protection in upholding the game’s integrity throughout each passing season. Promotion in event coverage and technological touch. The Golf Association of Philadelphia is your association.

• The earliest form of the BMW GAP Team Matches — a match between Devon Golf Club and Philadelphia Cricket Club — served as the Golf Association of Philadelphia’s genesis.
• Seven gentlemen — George D. Fowle, Rodman E. Griscom, Samuel Y. Heebner, Isaac T. Staarr, Walter E. Stephenson, Dr. Henry Toulmin and Milton C. Work — met on Feb. 5, 1897 to form the Association.
• George D. Fowle, a Philadelphia Country Club member, was elected to serve as the Association’s first president.
• The late James W. Finegan, in his book “A Centennial Tribute to GOLF in Philadelphia,” documented the Association’s rich history.