Schifferdecker Golf Course

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Schifferdecker Golf Course in Joplin, MO is a good example of how you build and manage a municipal golf course. Built in 1922, many golfing legends have played on the course over the years including Horton Smith (winner of the first and third Master’s) and Hale Irwin.

For a muni, the course is in excellent condition, providing a great golfing experience and value to golfers of all skill levels. The greens are soft, roll well and are pretty quick for a municipal course. There are a few bunkers throughout the course and they are weed free, which you do not see often on a muni course. There are some water hazards (a huge friggin’ lake on the right side of the first fairway – be careful slicers), doglegs and plenty of trees. Both the fairways and tee boxes are fairly consistent.

History lesson (because I was curious): Charles Schifferdecker, a German who immigrated to this country at age 18, would amass a fortune after he arrived in Joplin in 1875. Everything he touched, from brewing to mining, would enhance his wealth and his ability to give back to the community. He helped build schools, a church, St. John’s Hospital and the Scottish Rite Cathedral. He helped establish the First National Bank of Joplin. You’re welcome.

All in all, I enjoyed playing Schifferdecker Golf Course and would enjoy playing it again and again.