1900
history
F
ounded in 1900 by a small number of far-sighted businessmen, West Essex enjoys a wealth of history and tradition, as well as being an excellent golf course. The course, situated on the edge of Epping Forest, was originally leased from a ‘Mr. Melles’ for a fee of £140 per annum, as 80 acres of farmland gave birth to West Essex Golf Club. The parkland course was designed by legendary figure James Braid, a member of the Great Triumvirate.
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During the early years funding was required to keep the club afloat and contributions from members raised £5000 and the club was safely in the hands of its members. In 1902 the original clubhouse was built by Mr. W. Gardener of Waltham Abbey at a cost of £3,663. 10s. 7d. By then, improvements to the rough layout of the course had started and in 1903 sand arrived and was placed in the newly dug bunkers. By 1912 a new ladies clubhouse was built at a cost of £392 but within a few years the First World War had become imminent and the start of it in
1914 led to a reduction in membership subscription and an increase in club outgoings, leaving the club struggling financially. During the war the club was active in raising funds for war charities while wounded soldiers, up to 100 at a time, were on several occasions entertained and given hospitality at the club. The end of the war in 1918 saw the resumption of normal club life and the stabilisation of its financial position.
