Much has changed at Cedarbrook Country Club in its 50 years of operation in State Road.
Cedarbrook Country Club occupies a portion of what was once three hunting lodges, including the Blue Ridge Lodge, built in the late 1920s by the Hanes family of Winston-Salem, founders and owners of Hanes Hosiery.
James G. Hanes, CEO of Hanes Hosiery, built the Blue Ridge Lodge as an exclusive quail hunting retreat for family and invited guests. The Blue Ridge Lodge remained on the property and eventually served as Cedarbrook Country Club’s clubhouse beginning in 1962, when Cedarbrook moved from Yadkin County to its current location.
In the early 1940s town members began planning a golf course for the Elkin area. Land was found in Jonesville, and a nine-hole golf course was built and named Cedarbrook.
“Cedarbrook originated in 1946 in Yadkin County, off what is Swan Creek Road,” said Zim Zimmerman, Cedarbrook Country Club’s manager and head golf professional.
In the 1950s, Hugh Chatham purchased the Blue Ridge Lodge and the adjoining 78 acres and began laying the foundation for what would become the current site of Cedarbrook Country Club in State Road.
Legendary golf course architect Ellis Maples was hired to build the course. There were nine holes built in 1962 and nine more built in 1968.
“The Chatham family and their connections were so major in making this club happening,” J.L. Lowe said. “Donald Ross built Roaring Gap, and when they got ready to build this, Ellis was his protégé, so we were fortunate enough to get him; the most top-notch architect at the time. He laid out a bunch of great courses.”
Maples became renowned for his outstanding designs, including Grandfather Golf and Country Club, The Country Club of North Carolina and Pinehurst No. 5.
“We are very fortunate that the Chatham family had the foresight to build a championship golf course. If it weren’t for their foresight and vision this place wouldn’t exist. The community really is so lucky,” Zimmerman said.
Today, Cedarbrook members and visitors can enjoy a 10,000 square foot, full-service clubhouse completed in 2005.
“I think the old buildings had a uniqueness to them and a lot of memories and sentimental value for many members,” said Zimmerman. “But for the Club to move forward, it was necessary.”
The club continues to serve as an essential part of the community, and a beloved place for many.
“I think it’s a vital part of our community,” said David Renegar, Cedarbrook board president. “Just like our schools and our recreation park, when someone looks to move to the community, it’s a big benefit to have something like Cedarbrook.”
The Club has also been an integral part of many charity events and fund-raisers.
“It’s important when you look at all the benefits and tournaments Cedarbrook has held,” Renegar said. ” We’ve always tried to work with the community, and we give them things at the best cost we can. It’s those type things that I think the community should understand. It’s not just a business, it’s really a vital part of the community.”
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