Tom Bendelow

Early American1868–1936Aberdeen, Scotland

Tom Bendelow is a Early American era golf course architect with 5 courses in the Alister Links database across 5 states. Best known for Medinah Country Club (No. 3). Designs in our database span 1912–1925.

Tom Bendelow was a Scottish-born architect who designed hundreds of courses across America during the early growth of the game. Known as the 'Johnny Appleseed of American Golf,' he laid out courses for A.G. Spalding & Bros. before establishing himself as an independent designer.

Design Philosophy

Bendelow's early designs were often simple nine-hole layouts created quickly and inexpensively to meet the explosive demand for golf in America. His later work matured significantly, producing more strategic and architecturally sophisticated courses.

5 clubs across 5 states · 1912–1925

Course Map

Courses by Tom Bendelow

Ranked by Alister Index score.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many golf courses did Tom Bendelow design?
The Alister Links database includes 5 private golf clubs designed by Tom Bendelow across 5 states. Tom Bendelow's courses in our database span Florida, Illinois, Mississippi, Texas, West Virginia.
What is Tom Bendelow's most famous golf course?
Tom Bendelow is perhaps best known for Medinah Country Club (No. 3). Other notable designs include Medinah Country Club, Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club, Clarksburg Country Club.
What is Tom Bendelow's design philosophy?
Bendelow's early designs were often simple nine-hole layouts created quickly and inexpensively to meet the explosive demand for golf in America. His later work matured significantly, producing more strategic and architecturally sophisticated courses.
When was Tom Bendelow active as a golf course architect?
Tom Bendelow courses in our database range from 1912 to 1925. Tom Bendelow was born in 1868 and died in 1936.
Where are Tom Bendelow's golf courses located?
Tom Bendelow designed golf courses across 5 states, including Florida, Illinois, Mississippi, Texas, West Virginia. View the full map and list on this page.

Key Facts

  • Courses in database: 5
  • States represented: Florida, Illinois, Mississippi, Texas, West Virginia
  • Year range: 1912–1925
  • Era: Early American
  • Birthplace: Aberdeen, Scotland
  • Born: 1868, Died: 1936
  • Best known for: Medinah Country Club (No. 3)
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