Montaup Country Club

Origins

Long before golf arrived, the property at the northern end of Aquidneck Island belonged to the Chase family and was used for farming and orchards. The club's own history describes 141 gently rolling acres, with parts of the present first, second and ninth holes occupying former peach-orchard ground. Golf began there in 1923 with only three holes.

The layout was subsequently expanded until Montaup had a full 18-hole course. No formal architect has been reliably identified for that original progression, and contemporary golf sources specifically note the absence of a named designer.

Design Philosophy

Because no original architect or surviving design statement has been identified, a formal design philosophy cannot be attributed to Montaup. The course that developed is relatively open and gently rolling, with its exposed position near Mount Hope Bay making wind an important part of play. Mature trees, internal and external out-of-bounds and the historic railway line also influence the routing.

The club identifies the par-5 16th, with views toward Mount Hope Bay and the Mount Hope Bridge, as its signature hole, while the opening three holes have developed a reputation locally as an unusually demanding start.

Development

World War II dramatically altered the course. Montaup leased its back-nine land for the war effort, and gravel from the property was removed for military construction associated with the Newport area. The club consequently operated as a nine-hole course for more than two decades.

Reconstruction of the back nine began in 1965, with Callan Construction contracted under the direction of Frank Tew, described by the club as the project's clerk of works. Roger Turcotte arrived in 1966 and was responsible for bringing the new holes into playable condition while maintaining the existing nine. Members assisted with rock-picking parties and other work.

The restored back nine opened in 1968, returning Montaup to 18 holes. The club says the layout has continued to change in smaller ways since then.

Recognition

Montaup's centennial coincided with its selection to host the 118th Rhode Island Amateur Championship in July 2023. The Rhode Island Golf Association highlighted both the course and the unusual history embedded in its property, including the nineteenth-century railway that still crosses the site, a small Chase family cemetery beside the 17th hole and the club's wartime loss and later rebuilding of its second nine. The association also noted Montaup's reputation for strong drainage and demanding opening holes.

Today

Montaup operates as an 18-hole semi-private club with both members and public golfers. The club is open year-round and provides online public tee-time booking, while its current in-season public green fee is $80 for 18 holes. The 2023 centennial scorecard lists five primary tee colours plus several combination courses.

Iron & Oak Kitchen provides on-site dining, and the golf operation includes a pro shop and PGA instruction. Montaup marked its 100th anniversary in 2023 with historical research and publication of a club history documenting a course that has survived wartime land loss, reconstruction and repeated periods of financial uncertainty.