Raging fire hits historic Oakland Hills Country Club's clubhouse
One of the United States' most historic golf clubs may be facing irreparable damage from a fire.
Local reporters and social media users have captured video of the blaze hitting Oakland Hills Country Club's clubhouse on Thursday, with firefighters still working to limit the spread. The fire started at 10 a.m CT., according to WXYZ-TV in Detroit, with the clubhouse roof collapsing at 11 a.m. and the damage described as "extensive."
No injuries or deaths have been reported from the fire, and the cause remains unknown. One employee told WXYZ that all employees evacuated safely.
Images from the current fire at Oakland Hills CC are chilling. Building dates back to 1922. Awful.
Video submitted from an individual on the ground: pic.twitter.com/UdiP8G0D7i— Brendan Quinn (@BFQuinn) February 17, 2022
Few golf courses have seen as much history as Oakland Hills. The Bloomfield Township, Michigan course has hosted six U.S. Open Championships (third-most of any golf course), three PGA Championships (tied for second-most), two U.S. Amateurs and the 2004 Ryder Cup. Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Ben Hogan are among the golfers to raise trophies at the Detroit-area club.
It might be possible for the clubhouse to be repaired or rebuilt, but replacing the memorabilia it contained may be a different story. Fortunately, some firefighters reportedly saved some of the items, handing them off to club members at the front door.
The USGA tweeted out a statement sympathizing with the club and expressing relief that no one was hurt.
Our thoughts are with our friends at @OaklandHillsCC. Most importantly, we are relieved to hear that no one was injured.
Along with so many others in the golf community, we have special memories at this storied venue and look forward to making more with them in the coming years. pic.twitter.com/p2nHVzIBCF— USGA (@USGA) February 17, 2022
