The Inside Swing

A.W. Tillinghast

Golf Course Architect

Biography

Albert Warren Tillinghast was one of the defining figures of golf's Golden Age of architecture. His courses — including Bethpage Black, Winged Foot, Baltusrol, and Brook Hollow — have hosted more major championships than those of any other American architect. Known as "Tillie," he combined artistic sensibility with strategic rigor, creating courses that challenge the world's best players while remaining engaging for average golfers.

Design Philosophy

Tillinghast believed in bold, heroic architecture that demands the best from every golfer. His designs feature dramatic bunkering, strong green contours, and a variety of hole types that prevent monotony. He was meticulous about creating courses where every hole had distinct character.

Courses by A.W. Tillinghast in Our Directory (11)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Tillinghast's most famous courses?
Winged Foot, Bethpage Black, Baltusrol, Brook Hollow, and San Francisco Golf Club are among his most celebrated works. These courses have hosted numerous U.S. Opens and PGA Championships.
When did A.W. Tillinghast design courses?
Tillinghast's prime design period was from the early 1910s through the 1930s, during golf's Golden Age of architecture.

Stay in the Loop

Get weekly rankings updates, destination guides, and insider tips delivered to your inbox.