LOS ALTOS, CA (Sept 26, 2023) – Los Altos History Museum commemorates the centennial anniversary of the Los Altos Golf & Country Club with a new exhibit. Titled “100 Years and Counting: The Los Altos Golf & Country Club,” this exhibit will be on display in the J. Gilbert Smith House Gallery from October 12, 2023, to January 7, 2024.
According to Exhibits Specialist Jordan Grealish, the exhibit provides a unique glimpse into the Los Altos Golf & Country Club’s history, beginning with its origin. “From the 1800s when Governor Alvarado helped create Rancho San Antonio to the University of Santa Clara’s 1902 land purchase, we trace the story. Country Club founders, led by President Charles A. Gray, secured 155 acres for the Club and sold the rest for homes. During World War II, membership dropped to a dismal level, debts rose, and part of the golf course was sold, yet devoted members loaned money and volunteered to rescue the Club.”
The exhibit also explores the Club’s contributions to the community, including hosting two golf invitationals annually, a wine festival, and a recent 100-year family carnival, complete with a hot air balloon. The Club’s proactive response to the COVID-19 pandemic illustrates how it remained ahead of the curve by closing early and maintaining a cautious approach to reopening.
In addition to a collection of photographs showcasing the Country Club’s evolution over the years, the exhibit features artifacts such as a 1929 membership card, newspaper clippings, the Club’s original bylaws, and a flyer listing a portion of the property that sold for $475 in the early 1900s, ultimately becoming the San Antonio Hills HOA.
The “100 Years and Counting: The Los Altos Golf & Country Club” exhibit welcomes visitors from Thursday to Sunday, noon to 4pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit losaltosthistory.org/CountryClub.
Los Altos History Museum began in 1977 with the opening of the J. Gilbert Smith House historic farmhouse, built in 1905. In 2001, the Los Altos History Museum opened its modern building next door, which houses the Museum’s collections, permanent and changing exhibits, store and administrative offices. The Museum and its grounds are available for rent during evenings and weekends. Its collections are owned by the City of Los Altos and are managed by an independent nonprofit organization, whose staff and volunteers are responsible for all programs and operations.
The Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, from noon-4pm. Admission is free. Tours of the J. Gilbert Smith House are available during open hours. The outdoor agricultural exhibit, gardens and picnic area are accessible beyond Museum hours. For more information, visit: losaltoshistory.org, email hello@losaltoshistory.org, or phone 650.948.9427 x14.
Media Contact: Marketing@losaltoshistory.org
