The History of Pine Lake Country ClubNestled in the heart of the community, Pine Lake Country Club has been an embodiment of tranquility, tradition, and hospitality for over a century. From its humble beginnings to its status as a Premier Family Club, PLCC has been a steadfast cornerstone, offering more than just sporting and recreational facilities to its members. Established in 1902, Pine Lake Country Club was founded as the Automobile Club of Detroit, by a group of like-minded automobile enthusiasts, who were icons of Michigan business at the turn of the century. By 1905, they sought a permanent home for their Club and were offered a ‘very picturesque site’ on Pine Lake by the property owners George and Agnes Hodges. Hodges built the original clubhouse at his expense and leased it to the Club for $500 per year. In those days, when the north boundary of Detroit was not too many blocks beyond Vernor Highway, driving a car to the wilds of Pine Lake was a major adventure. The beautiful bluff overlooking the lake became a favorite overnight camp site for practically every Detroiter who owned a car. Many of the early members were captains of industry, Governors of Michigan and United States Senators. Among the most well-known were Truman Newberry, Russell Alger, Jr., Henry Joy, John Dodge, Random Olds, Henry Ford, Roy Chapin, E.P. Hammond, W.C. Hartman, and James Couzens. By 1916 roads had improved to such a degree that members had ample time and energy to enjoy a little activity after a pleasant, and much shorter, drive out to the beautiful site. So, by 1917, the first seven holes of golf were in usage and two more were added in 1919. In 1921, it had officially become Pine Lake Country Club, recognizing the change from an automobile club to a country club spectrum of interests. Through the decades, Pine Lake Country Club expanded both in terms of facilities and membership. While it has preserved its historic charm, it has also embraced the modern era with updates to its facilities, ensuring it caters to the evolving needs of its member base. Recent membership investments to the Club, have included updates to the facilities locker rooms, kitchen, outdoor dining area, pool deck, and ongoing golf course restoration. From its founding to its current position in the community, the history of Pine Lake Country Club is more than just a chronicle of events. It continues to provide a welcoming environment for both sports and social gatherings, an integral part of the community fabric that it has served for more than a century. For more information explore the West Bloomfield Historical Society or check out "Motoring" to Pine Lake with the Automobile Club of Detroit”. We hope you enjoy our Fire Works on Sunday, September 3rd at dusk! Alexandra Wendland, Director of Membership and Marketing, 248.682.1300x109
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