Welcome to the captivating story of Avondale Golf & Tennis Club, where history and dedication have woven a remarkable tapestry. In the late 19th century, the property was acquired by Homer B. King, who christened the serene lake on the grounds as King Lake. The year 1905 marked the birth of Avondale as we know it today, with the collaboration of the King family and the Malboy brothers, who lent their name to this charming locale.
In its earlier days, this expansive area was home to a race track, now transformed into the lush fairways of our golf course. Standing as a testament to time, the iconic red barn on the premises ranks among the oldest structures in the Northwest.
Ownership of Avondale passed through many hands until 1957 when it found new custodians in Donald H. Klages and James Punis, later joined by E.L. Miller. Their vision paved the way for the birth of Avondale on Hayden, officially incorporated on April 20th, 1963. Originally intended as a 12-hole course designed by Warren Cummings, the course eventually expanded to 18 holes under the guidance of Russel L. Brown. This expansion included a driving range, clubhouse, and the picturesque ninth hole on Avondale Lake.
1966 witnessed the commencement of seeding for the front nine, which welcomed golf enthusiasts in 1968. The first PGA professional, Joe Dubsky, added his expertise to the club. In the early 1970s, James Punis relinquished his ownership stake, and the back nine came into existence in 1971, coinciding with the inauguration of the first Board of Directors, led by President Hal Edwards.
The subsequent decade brought financial challenges, fostering a resilient spirit among our members—a spirit that thrived despite adversity. In 1978, they erected the first thirty cart sheds, followed by 12 more in 1986 and an additional twenty in 1990. Significant improvements to fairways and greens were orchestrated by architect Jim Kraus in the mid-1980s.
The 1980s marked a period of growth and flourishing membership, thanks to the constant influx of new members and the warm hospitality of Mike Delong, a future director of golf at the prestigious Coeur d’Alene resort golf course. His influence left an indelible mark on Avondale’s reputation for friendliness and excellence. Tennis enthusiasts were delighted in 1981 when the tennis courts were added.
In 1994, under the leadership of Jim Beldin, the Board of Directors recognized the urgent need to replace our outdated irrigation system and reduce dependency on Avondale Lake, which had suffered from years of drought. A comprehensive golf course master plan was conceived to chart a clear course for the club’s future. Rathert International Golf Design, from Denver, Colorado, was engaged to adapt the course for new irrigation lakes and improve tees and greens.
In April 1995, the master plan was unveiled, revealing the untapped potential of Avondale. While the cost was daunting, the membership overwhelmingly supported the project, which included a total course closure. With just a handful of objections, the Board voted to proceed with the ambitious $2 million project, equating to $4,000 per member.
On August 21, 1995, the course closed for renovation, a 12-week journey undertaken by Adair Earthworks Construction. The transformation included new tees, nine greens, a spacious practice putting surface, renovation of seven fairways, and a cutting-edge irrigation system featuring three lakes, a 200-foot stream for water purification, and 1,150 new sprinkler heads. Unpredictable weather conditions, including record rainfall, presented formidable challenges, but against all odds, the lower nine holes reopened on June 29, 1996, with the back nine following in late July.
In the year 2011, plans were set in motion for a comprehensive transformation of the clubhouse. This ambitious renovation project encompassed several exciting enhancements, such as the addition of a stylish new bar and lounge area, modernizing the existing clubhouse facilities, and expanding its overall space to cater to the evolving needs and preferences of the club’s members and guests.
The heroic effort of countless individuals, united by passion and determination, culminated in the rebirth of Avondale Golf Club. This extraordinary journey, undertaken in the face of unprecedented weather conditions, has transformed Avondale into the crown jewel of the Inland Northwest. We invite you to savor the fruits of this remarkable labor—an enduring testament to the spirit of our community. Welcome to Avondale Golf Club; embrace the excellence and enjoy!
10745 N Avondale Loop, Hayden, ID 83835
