Part 5/12:
Driven by his goal to emulate the great courses of Britain, McDonald searched the East Coast for a site to develop a world-class golf course. His search culminated in Long Island’s Southhampton area, known for its affluent summer colonies and sandy terrain reminiscent of Scottish links courses. In 1906, he acquired land near Sag Harbor, founding the National Golf Links of America (NGLA), which opened in 1909.
The NGLA became an instant success, showcasing classic links architecture with features inspired by British courses—undulating greens, naturalistic bunkers, and a rugged seaside setting. It quickly gained prestige by hosting the Walker Cup in 1922 and helped cement McDonald's influence on American golf course design.