The City of Tallahassee is proud to announce the addition of Jake Gaither Golf Course to the National Register of Historic Places, the official list of the nation's historic sites worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service's register is part of a "program that supports public and private efforts to identify, evaluate and protect America's historic and archeological resources."
"The Jake Gaither Golf Course has been a pillar of the community for decades. It was the first local course to give African Americans an opportunity to play the sport, and many have flourished because of it," Mayor John Dailey said. "This national recognition reflects the dedication of staff, golfers and volunteers who have given their time and talents over the years to make the course a welcoming place for all."
Jake Gaither Golf Course, which is owned and operated by the City of Tallahassee, was opened in 1956. Small renovations were completed over the years, and in 2021, the City began a more than $700,000 modernization, which was completed earlier this year. Improvements include enhanced landscaping, fairways and cart paths, and the pro shop was remodeled.
"The importance of Jake Gaither Golf Course is the community of people who have played here," says Jan Auger, General Manager of Golf for the City. "They helped diversify golf in Tallahassee by teaching and mentoring young people and women. It's a golf course for everyone, and I'm glad it's finally getting the recognition it deserves."
Achieving this prestigious designation took years of research and documentation, an effort spearheaded by Scott Edwards, a historic preservationist and the Florida Historic Golf Coordinator at the Florida Department of State. After working with the City and community members, he submitted the application to have the course added to the National Register of Historic Places. Edwards, like many, has personal ties to the course. He started playing at Jake Gaither Golf Course with his father and brother while in middle school and still golfs there today with his family.
Leroy Kilpatrick, now in his 80s, started playing the course as a teen. He was there the day it opened and still plays there today, often with his grandson. In 1995, Kilpatrick made the Guinness Book of Records for playing 1,363 holes at Jake Gaither Golf Course in seven days. He is among the many notable people who have become legends of the course.
To commemorate Jake Gaither Golf Course's 65th anniversary and document some of its history, a mini-documentary was produced by the City in December 2021. The award-winning video is available for viewing on demand at YouTube.com/CityofTLH.
A week-long community celebration is being planned to mark this newest milestone for the course. As plans are firmed up, details will be available at Talgov.com.
Jake Gaither Golf Course is open year-round and offers a practice putting green and a pro shop with golf merchandise, rental clubs and snacks. The course provides challenges for golfers of every skill level. For more information, call the course at 850-891-3942 or visit JakeGaitherGolf.com.
Original source can be found here.
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