The Origins of Golf on Marco Island

The Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) presents Out of the Sand: The Origins of Golf on Marco Island. The exhibit is at the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM) from November 14, 2023 through March 2, 2024 with an opening reception on November 16, 4:30 to 6:30 PM. Generously sponsored by the Island Country Club Charitable Foundation, the exhibit is free and open to the public. 

Out of the Sand examines more than 50 years of Marco Island golf history through historical images and objects from the MIHS collections. According to MIHS Curator of Collections Austin Bell, “Golf has been a significant part of Marco Island’s identity since the 1960s. From its beginnings with the first pitch-and-putt golf course on the beach, golf grew into a signature island activity recognized by golfing enthusiasts from throughout the country.” 

The Marco Island Country Club — today known as The Island Country Club — has a long and illustrious history having hosted many of Marco Island’s world-famous golfing pros and other celebrities. The golfing world’s rising star, Tony Lema, was recruited in 1965 to be the Marco Island Country Club’s first professional golf pro. Tragically, he and his wife were killed in a plane crash in 1966. 

The Marco Island Country Club’s first Tony Lema Memorial Tournament was held in 1967 in his memory. It was a star-studded event that included golfing greats Gene Sarazen, Bobby Nichols, Arnold Palmer and Buddy Allin. Many other major celebrities also participated, including Mickey Mantle, Peter Falk, Perry Como, Glen Campbell and others. 

This fun and interactive exhibit features many more interesting stories on Marco Island’s significant golf history. It even includes a three-hole “mini-course” and promises to be a hole-in-one for all ages. 

The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is free, and the site is handicapped accessible. For information, call 239.389.6447 or visit www.theMIHS.org.