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A Statement on the Passing of William “Bill” Powell (November 22, 1916 - December 31, 2009)


 

Before learning of the death of the incomparable Bill Powell, The Green Magazine included his beloved Clearview Golf Club in a salute to the most pioneering African American golfing institutions in the country. The article will appear in our February 2010 issue, but we have provided an excerpt in advance below. Powell’s uncompromising commitment to ensuring that African Americans were always at home on the green will not be forgotten. Clearview Golf Club remains a living tribute to Powell’s character, ingenuity and monumental contribution to the sport we love. Centuries from now golfers of color will continue to laud his life and career. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

 

An excerpt from the upcoming February issue of The Green Magazine:

Clearview Golf Club / (East Canton, OH)

"America’s Course. That’s what William “Bill” Powell had in mind when he scanned the vast plot of farmland in East Canton, Ohio. After serving his term in World War II, Powell returned home to an unwelcoming sentiment when he traveled to play the game he truly enjoyed. He couldn’t find a place to play. So, he built a course of his own—a course that would welcome golfers of all skill sets, age and race. It was a family affair when the first nine-holes were built. Powell added the second nine holes in 1978. His passion for the game was passed down to his two children. Daughter, Renee Powell, is one of three African American women to earn an LPGA Tour card. Clearview Golf Club is currently the only course in existence that is owned, designed, constructed and operated by an African American. Powell’s tireless contribution to the game has not gone unnoticed. In 2001, the U.S. Department of Interior recognized Clearview Golf Club as a National Historic Site. Recently, Powell was honored by the PGA of America as the recipient of the 2009 Distinguished Service Award."

 

 

 

Comments

Passing of Bill Powell

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 01/22/2010 - 23:21.

Peace be upon him...what a man of dignity and class. I dream of playing all of the black owned and/or designed courses in the U.S. before I pass on to the fairway in the sky. I want to play the course at the foot of the Giza Pyramids also.

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