In A Newport Minute | 1916-1925

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This video is the 15th in our series, In A Newport Minute, created by the Newport Historical Society as part of Newport’s contribution to America Turns 250. Each installment highlights a moment in American history within a ten‑year span, beginning in 1776 and continuing to the present day.

Across these 25 short videos, we’ll explore how Newport grew, adapted, and evolved alongside the nation—sometimes in step with national events, sometimes in its own unique way. Our goal is to bring local history to life and show how our community’s story fits into the larger American narrative.

We invite you to follow along every two weeks as we share new chapters in Newport’s past.

Overview

This video traces the founding and evolution of the Newport Golf Club from its 1920s inception to recent community ownership, detailing site selection, early governance, membership structure, and notable events. It highlights the practical decisions—architectural surveying, course construction, and initial tournaments—that shaped the club’s early years.

The history emphasizes key individuals who defined the club’s identity, notably Willie Park Jr.’s course recommendations and John H. Cain’s long tenure as pro, greenskeeper, lessee, and namesake, concluding with mid‑late 20th century transitions and the 2022 local purchase that begins a new chapter.

All of the videos in the series can be viewed using the link below:

Sources & Credits:

• Richards Free Library Digital Archives
• Photos and artifacts from Newport Historical Museum
• Newport Golf Course By-laws – Newport Historical Society

Key Words:

Robert Gould, Sid Rollins, Newport, Claremont, NH, Fletcher Farm, Sunapee Street, Pinnacle, Willie Park Jr., Unity Road, George Cain, William Davis, George Spooner, Cain house, clubhouse, Charles Davis, Newport Golf Club, Board of Governors, Fast Day 1921, Harold Stallwood, Rhode Island, John H. Cain, Irene Cain, John H. Cain Golf Club, Newport Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge, Regency Savings Bank of Illinois, John Catsam, Nick Catsam

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