About Us

Brookwood Golf Course: A Brief History

    Brookwood Golf Course challenged its first golfers in  1965.  Founded by Joe and Maxine Hess, it was built first as a nine hole course, with the front nine being added in the early 1970’s.  The unique, rustic clubhouse on site was beautifully renovated from a 1930’s era barn that was featured at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair as a modern-day dairy facility.

In 1992, Brookwood was purchased by father and son duo, both PGA professionals, George and Joe Thomas. Brookwood has been owned and operated by the Thomas family for over 30 years . Owner, Joe Thomas, is an experienced golfer and instructor; a PGA professional for over 30 years. George Thomas, who was a long time Club Professional  for over fifty years and achieved Master Professional Status, has many accomplishments such as Indiana Golf Hall of Fame member who played in two US Opens, one PGA Championship, five US Senior Opens, and eight PGA Senior Championships. At one time, George even led the 1981 PGA Senior Championship and was paired with Arnold Palmer, who prevailed and won the title. George also served as the Notre Dame Men’s and Women’s Golf coach for over fifteen years. The family’s history and George’s many victories, course records, and other honors of his illustrious golf career are displayed through photos and memorabilia in the course’s clubhouse.

Brookwood has played host to many notable celebrities in the golf world, including Muffet McGraw, Notre Dame Women’s Basketball coach, Chicago White Sox announcer Ken “Hawk” Harrellson and legendary Notre Dame head football coaches Lou Holtz and George’s  long-time friend of over forty-five years, Ara Parseghian.