SWANSEA, Mass. – Throughout New England, various tribes of Native Americans claimed their land and lived in harmony with each other and nature for many generations. The Wampanoags were known as a coastal people, staying near the fruitful shores of the North Atlantic Ocean. Perhaps their greatest lasting legacy is that it was the Wampanoags took part in the harvest dinner that would eventually come to be known as Thanksgiving.
Before the Harvest Moon arrives, do yourself a favor and get down to Swansea, Massachusetts and head to Wampanoag Golf Course on Old Providence Road. You’ll have an enjoyable and affordable golf experience.
With so many 9-hole courses nearby, it may be easy to overlook Wampanoag, but don’t make that mistake. Almost immediately after you leave the first tee box, you can see why 8-time PGA tour winner Brad Faxon used to be a member here.
While at first glance the course may appear to be flat and mundane, it is anything but ordinary. True, the coastal location prevents many elevation changes, but this seaside setting is certain to enhance your day on the links.
As I made my way around the course, the words “peaceful” and “enjoyable” would not leave my mind.
The fairways are wide enough to let loose on your driver, but just enough tall grass and hazards to keep you honest. This is a great place to play golf. Holes No. 7 through 9 sits along the Palmer River, so don’t be surprised to find a gallery of geese or swans observing your final few holes.
Maybe it was my Native American heritage that made me feel an instant connection to this course. Maybe it was the warm greeting from owner Richard Pistacchio who greeted us like family upon our arrival. Or maybe it was the golfer inside of me connecting to a course that is so perfectly designed, set, and playable that it is a golfer’s dream come true.
Wampanoag Golf Course does not have the fanciest clubhouse, or other amenities that some country clubs have. But anything that this course lacks, it more than makes up for once you get out there and start swinging.
I’ve played dozens of courses throughout New England, and this was easily one of the most enjoyable places I have been. When you figure in the green fees along with the course itself, Wampanoag Golf Course is a true hidden gem in the southern sector of New England.
Think of it like this…
Playing your typical nine-hole course is like chopping out of the rough, the thick stuff, fescue. Playing Wampanoag is like striping an iron from a tightly-trimmed fairway.
And that’s what it’s really all about right, playing the game on the short grass?
The Skinny
Wampanoag Course
Type: Public, 9-hole regulation
Vitals: Par 35, 2,930 yards
Architect: Aljenon Barney (1931)
Greens: Bent Grass
Season: Open: 4/15 Closed: 11/15
Link: Facebook.com/GolfSwansea
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