Detroit's Historic Rogell Golf Course Has New Owner

The year was 1914. The leading citizens of Detroit's Jewish community, including Max Fisher, opened the Phoenix Golf Club, later to become the Rogell Golf Course. Now its new owners, the Greater Grace Temple, have preserved a special piece of the city's history as well as a local gem.

"This purchase is very significant in that we have become the only African-American-owned and -operated golf course in the entire state," said Greater Grace Temple Pastor, Bishop Charles H. Ellis III. "This course and club have a rich legacy dating back to 1914 and that includes the likes of such prominent men as Donald Ross and Max Fisher. We are excited to continue the revitalization of this northwest corner of Detroit with this $2-million investment."

The "new" Rogell Golf Course is now one of only six African-American-owned courses in the United States. Designed by famed architect Donald Ross, the 18-hole course has been opened for 11 weeks and has already stirred excitement among Detroit-area golfers, who appreciate its challenging design. Players will find plenty of excitement with its rolling hills and the Rouge River that enters play on the back nine.

The church, which purchased the course from the City of Detroit for $2.1 million, will be making various upgrades to the facility in hopes of increasing play levels. Green fees range from $20 on weekdays to $25 weekends. For information or tee times, call 313/255-4653.

Portions of this article originally appeared in a Free Press PRlog.