Our History
Then
The Eastern Shore Yacht and Country Club was founded in April 1960, when 125 acres of land on Yeo Neck was acquired from Levin T. Johnson. Eddie Ault was selected as the golf course architect. By July 1960, 285 persons had joined the club. The Board of Directors held their first meeting in the new clubhouse on June 7, 1961.
On September 2, 1961, a Grand Opening was held and the first nine holes of the golf course was officially opened for play on September 23, 1961. The second nine holes was officially opened for play on June 17, 1965. The completed course has a rating of 69.7, par 70, slope of 121 and 6335 yards from blue tees. Our first golf pro, Tony Arch, and wife Carol lived in a trailer parked where our tennis courts are now.
The 1967 Virginia State Open Golf Championship was held at the Eastern Shore Yacht and Country Club. Many leading state golf professionals participated, including Tom Strange, Chandler Harper, Herb Hooper, and Claude King. Former PGA Champion Chandler Harper was the winner of this tournament.
Our dock has been destroyed twice by Hurricanes in 1960 and 1985. It was rebuilt both times. Thanks are due to our Dock Chairman, Morgan Ridington, for his diligent service and creativity. He and his committee hosted "Dockside Day" 1984. Craft sales, putting contests, closest to pin event, cookout lunch, barbeque dinner and "crab races" made our dock extension possible. When the dock fell victim of the Hurricane it was only the extension that held!
Now
Today the Eastern Shore Yacht and Country Club is strong, overlooking Pungoteague Creek. The club is the focal point for social and recreational activities for its members and the extended community. The golf course, pool, tennis courts and dock hum with activity all season.
Eastern Shore Yacht & Country Club is considered one of the Shore's premiere hosts for private events for our members. The Pro Shop & Golf Course are also well known as desired locations for Charity Tournaments.
The club is staffed with professionals to appropriately guide each area. They include our Business Manager, Tricia Hare, who plans private events keeps everything "straight". Our Golf Professional, Alan Moore, Class A PGA, is there to perfect your swing and gives great tips. James Jones is Golf Shop Manager and makes sure tournaments run smoothly. Andrew Howard, Greens Superintendent, oversees the golf course and crew.