Steeped in over a century of tradition, the history of golf at Rogue Valley Country Club (RVCC) in Medford, Oregon, is a fascinating journey through time. From its humble beginnings in 1924, brought to life by a group of visionary businessmen and orchardists, to its current status as a premier 27-hole golf destination, RVCC's story is one of passion, resilience, and evolution. This narrative explores the club's early struggles, its pivotal role in shaping golf in the Rogue Valley, and the continuous enhancements that have made RVCC a cherished landmark for golf enthusiasts.
1910: Golf was introduced to the Rogue Valley by a group of young businessmen and orchardists, inspired by their experiences in the East.
June 30, 1911: The Medford Golf and Country Club had its grand opening on Hillcrest Road, east of Medford. The club included tennis courts, a skeet range, and a nine-hole golf course.
1912-1917: Despite its elaborate setup, the club faced financial struggles and closed down, later moving to a smaller site donated by Conro Fiero and his wife Grace.
The Formation of Rogue Valley Golf Association and RVCC (1923-1927)
1923: The Rogue Valley Golf Association (RVGA) was formed, purchasing 70 acres of the original Medford Golf and Country Club's land. H. Chandler Egan, a renowned amateur golfer, was appointed as the course architect for what would become RVCC.
May 3, 1924: The Rogue Valley Country Club opened with an initial nine-hole course, designed by Egan.
1927: Egan expanded the course to 18 holes, marking a significant milestone in RVCC's development.
Expansion and Modernization (1961-2017)
1961: Further expansion occurred with Ron Caperna designing the third set of 9 holes, making RVCC a 27-hole golf course.
1981: The club transitioned to a member-owned entity, with 600 Charter Golf Members and 400 Social Members.
1994: The golf course underwent a redesign by Robert Muir Graves, keeping up with modern golf standards.
2017: The original course was renamed to honor its designer, H. Chandler Egan, acknowledging his vital role in RVCC's golf legacy.
These milestones reflect RVCC's commitment to providing a premier golfing experience, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation unique to Southern Oregon's golf landscape.