History
Club President Ken Morris wrote those words several years ago as the introduction to “The First Hundred Years”, a book published in 2014 to commemorate the Centennial Celebration of our rich history. And he was right, we certainly had come a long way in our first 100 years and were named “Club of the Year” by the Metropolitan Golf Writers Association, but even more important is Knickerbocker’s commitment to the future.
Situated just a few miles from New York City, KCC offers its members every amenity you would expect from a full-service club delivered in a warm, relaxed atmosphere that is centered around friendship, family and recreation (and a healthy dose of competition for anyone interested). Though the crown jewel of KCC is our highly-ranked Donald Ross golf course, there is no compromise in our mission to deliver an outstanding experience in every area of the club. Our tennis and paddle courts, swimming pool and dining facilities are meticulously maintained and run by an outstanding team of professionals just as qualified and exceptional as our golf staff, which helps explain the continuing success and growth we have enjoyed in all of our programs.
In a metropolitan area known for some of the best golf courses in the world, our Donald Ross gem has consistently and unfailingly provided enjoyment for the recreational player and a challenge for those striving to be the best. As far back as 1921 KCC was the site of the first New Jersey State Open, and we have been chosen a century later to host the 100th New Jersey State Open in July of 2020. We were also the site of the 2014 New Jersey State Amateur and have hosted many other regional and national events as well.
Beginning with our original architects Donald Ross and Herbert Strong to our more recent work supervised by Ron Forse Design, the golf course and the practice areas have been updated and maintained in a manner that honors the game and withstood the test of time. Our constant improvement is one of many reasons that membership is enjoyed by players of all skill levels, experience and ages. It’s a place where everyone feels at home.
But what really makes a club feel like home is the people, and you’ll find none better than at KCC – not just among the membership but also the staff. Starting in 1953 with Otto Greiner (31 years) and Ed Whitman (26 years) to Bill Hook (since 2011), our Head Golf Professionals have been outstanding players and gentlemen who in every way have enhanced the reputation of our club and brought a stability to the golf operation unmatched at any other club.
The Knickerbocker story – over 100 years of history that might also be described as 100 years of lessons. And we will continue to learn, continue to change and continue to serve our membership. Yes, thanks to each of you we have already come a long way, but we are far more excited about where we are going than where we have been.