New Haven Country Club was founded in 1898 as one of the very early golf courses built in the United States. Yale professor Theodore Woolsey is credited with being the driving force behind the club’s incorporation and much of its early development. Land was purchased next to beautiful Lake Whitney which is a natural lake preserved by the New Haven Water company. The original golf course was laid out, and construction of the clubhouse began in 1899.

“…New Haven Country Club is today the leading social organization of the city. A handsome stone clubhouse was erected last fall of the Old English pattern similar to the clubhouses on the courses in England and Scotland. A restaurant famous for its excellence is maintained the year round. In the clubhouse, far from the noise and bustle of the city, many of the largest social entertainments of the smart set are held.”
   
----The Connecticut Magazine, Spring 1900