Photo Credit | Library of Congress, Washington, D.C. (LC-USZ62-100377)
On April 10, 1916, in a New York City hotel boardroom, a group of golf professionals and enthusiasts came together to formally establish what would become one of the most influential organizations in sports history: the Professional Golfers’ Association of America, better known as the PGA of America. What began as a small meeting of fewer than 100 individuals would grow into a global force that helped shape modern golf and elevate the role of the professional golfer.
The origins of the PGA can be traced back just a few months earlier, in January 1916, when a luncheon was held by department store magnate Rodman Wanamaker. Held in New York City, the gathering brought together leading golf professionals, prominent amateurs, and influential figures in the sport. Among those in attendance were notable names like Walter Hagen, Francis Ouimet, and renowned course architect A.W. Tillinghast. The purpose of the meeting was clear: to discuss the formation of an organization that would support golf professionals, improve tournament conditions, and promote the game more broadly.
At the time, professional golfers had little say in how tournaments were organized or how the sport was governed. Many struggled with job security and lacked a unified voice. One of the key figures pushing for change was Tom McNamara, a former caddie turned professional golfer and salesman, who advocated for an organization that would represent the interests of club professionals. His vision resonated with Wanamaker, who saw both the sporting and business potential of such an association.
After several follow-up meetings, the idea became a reality on April 10. That day, in the boardroom of the Hotel Martinique, the PGA of America was officially formed with 78 members, including 35 charter members who would lay the foundation for the organization’s future. The newly established association was divided into seven regional sections, reflecting the growing national interest in golf and the need for a structured organization.
The creation of the PGA quickly led to one of its most enduring contributions to the sport: the PGA Championship. Proposed by Wanamaker and launched later in 1916, the tournament would become one of golf’s four major championships, further solidifying the organization’s influence on the game.
Over time, the PGA of America expanded far beyond its modest beginnings. What started as a small coalition of professionals evolved into the largest working sports organization in the world, with tens of thousands of members dedicated to teaching, growing, and promoting the game of golf.
The significance of April 10, 1916, lies not just in the founding of an organization but in the transformation of a profession. By giving golf professionals a collective voice and a platform for advancement, the PGA of America helped elevate the sport to new heights. More than a century later, its impact continues to be felt across courses, tournaments, and communities around the world.
The Professional Golfers Association ,I do believe, sets a good example for sports in general. To approach the sport with a sense of respect for all involved is something that is uplifting and encourages a spirit of doing right . That sort of outlook brings a healthy sense of purpose to the sport activity. The history involved in this article helps to see golf as an activity that builds on good qualities in people who are intelligent ,have good character and know that life should be a combination of enjoyment , living by a code of conduct and working toward the betterment of society.