More than 100 years of golf
in Southern Illinois

Realizing the need for a place of recreation for their employees and the community in general, the coal companies of Old Ben, Taylor Coal Company, CWF Coal Company, and Bell & Zoller Coal Company bound together to develop a golf course in Franklin County.

D.W Buchannan, president of Old Ben coal, offered a lease on over 100 acres of land adjacent to the Old Ben #15 mine. Buchannan, at his own expense, paid $5,000 to a leading golf architect to ascertain the feasibility of the proposed golf links.

The first organizational meeting of the proposed golf course was held October 4, 1921. Charles D. Jacobs was elected President, Fred E. Homan Vice Pres. and George F. Campbell Secretary. The Franklin County Country Club was started with 62 resident members and 16 non-resident members.

Longford and Moreau, Golf Architects of Chicago were selected to design and supervise the construction of the course at a cost of $100,000. Work on the course began in early 1922, and by May of that year, a temporary course with sand greens and clubhouse was ready.

There have been some major improvements to the club over the last twenty years. An additional nine holes were constructed and dedicated in 1974, making it an excellent 18-hole course. In December 1975, the original clubhouse was destroyed by fire and a new clubhouse was constructed on the original site, opening in 1977.

In 1984 the decision was made to enlarge the clubhouse bar area and locate the Pro Shop on the lower level under the clubhouse. In 1993 the original nine holes were rebuilt and brought back to their original 1922 design.

Challenging. Accessible. Memorable.

Today, Franklin County Country Club boasts one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the region, offering both the experienced player and casual golfer a true resort-style golf experience. After checking in at our updated clubhouse and well-stocked Pro Shop, you are ready to prepare for your round at the driving range and practice green. Once your tee time arrives, you will have five sets of tee boxes to choose from, ensuring that you will be properly challenged, regardless of your level of play. Straight hitters will benefit from beautiful Zoysia fairways. After your round, relax with friends as you enjoy a delicious meal in the restaurant or sit in the shade on the patio.

We look forward to welcome you to Franklin County Country Club!