Midlothian (Ill.) CC Completes Course Renovation

Architect Raymond Hearn oversaw changes that included redesigned bunkers with a new variety of sand for increased playability and easier maintenance, and extended tee boxes to meet the demands of the modern game. Midlothian also revitalized its dining venues with the new 1898 Room, Championship Lounge and Lower Patio.

Midlothian (Ill.) Country Club—host venue of the 1914 U.S. Open Championship—is now showcasing the results of a dramatic course renovation led by architect Raymond Hearn. While paying due respect to the original 1898 course design by Herbert J. Tweedie, with influences from famed Scottish architect Donald Ross, Hearn’s redesign marks a return to the layout’s championship caliber.

All 82 bunkers were renovated by Hearn and now feature eye-catching Pro / Angle Sand for increased playability and easier maintenance. Meeting demands of the modern game, the tee-boxes were lengthened for added yardage as well as new sightlines and shot-making options placing a premium on strategy.

“Our membership here at Midlothian was looking for a renovation that respected our classic layout while honoring its historical look and feel,” said Club President Matt Barry. “Ray Hearn was diligent in working with us to understand our priorities and the renovation has blended in seamlessly, our members are beyond thrilled with the results.”

The renovation melds the historic past of Midlothian’s layout, even recreating intriguing pin positions from the 1920s.

“It is an honor to work on a such an incredible course like Midlothian that has stood the test of time and renovate it for today’s game,” said Hearn, founder of Michigan’s Raymond Hearn Golf Designs. “Our goal was to restore and renew the layout for players of all abilities to savor their time and enjoyment on one of Chicago’s true golf treasures.”

Additionally, Midlothian has completely revitalized its dining venues with the new 1898 Room, Championship Lounge and Lower Patio, all replacing the club’s old Grill Room. Work on the 1898 Room and Championship Lounge were the results of the work of Chicago’s Antunovich Associates.