Ottawa Park Golf Course
Built in 1899
18 Holes | Par 71 | 5,079 Yards
Meant for Everyone.
Discover the inspiring story of Toledo Municipal Golf—one of the birthplaces of public golf in America! This captivating video traces our journey from Ottawa Park's groundbreaking 1899 nine-hole course to the vibrant, inclusive greens of today at Collins Park and Detwiler Park. For over 125 years, we've been more than fairways and flags: we're a hub for community connections, family fun, and igniting lifelong passions through the game. Join us in celebrating this legacy—where every swing writes the next chapter.
Video produced by our partners at First Tee of Lake Erie. Thank you for bringing our shared history to life! ⛳
The oldest public course west of New York city.
History
Designed by S.P. Jermain
Established in 1899
Our Ottawa Park historic golf course is not only beautiful, but is historic as well. S. P. Jermain, the man who established the Toledo Park System, is also known as the “father of public golf in Toledo.” Toledo’s parks were from the beginning open to the public. But in the 1890’s all golf courses were private. Mr. Jermain set out to do something about this.
1899
S.P. Jermain established a 9 hole course at Ottawa Park—the oldest public course west of New York City.
1918
S.P. Jermain was again involved in the growth of golf by guiding the first organized group of women golfers which became the Toledo Women’s District Golf Association. The Toledo Golf Club, based in Ottawa, is a charter member of the TWDGA
1921
The course became very popular, and in 1920-1921 was expanded to 18 holes.
1922
The first US Amateur Public Links Championship [private club members were not eligible] was held at Ottawa Park.
1928
As a symbol of appreciation for Mr. Jermain’s untiring work for public link golfers, a 2 foot bronze statue of him was cast and dedicated
1977
many renovations and upgrades to the greens, tees, bunkers and irrigation was completed by Toledo's own world famous golf course architect Arthur Hills. Today, because of those renovations, Ottawa Park is known for fine greens of modern day excellence placed through the natural settings: settings about which S. P. Jermain had claimed " nature clearly intended for a golf course."
