Robert A. Black Golf Course

Robert A. Black Golf Course, situated in the West Ridge neighborhood of Chicago, boasts an interesting history. Originally established as Edgewater Golf Club in 1910, it began as a short 18-hole course. However, by the 1960s, the club faced financial difficulties, leading to plans for development of the land, including a proposed shopping center. Local community opposition ensued, resulting in years of prolonged legal, zoning, and planning challenges. In 1970, the state purchased the land for a record $8 million, paving the way for its eventual transformation. Eventually, it was decided to redevelop the area into open parkland and a 9-hole golf course. Finally, in 1980, the course opened its doors to the public, designed by prolific architects Ken Killian and Dick Nugent.

In 1980, Killian himself expressed confidence in the course, saying to the Chicago Tribune “We feel strongly that it is a fine golf course. It's trapped as well as any course around. There are some unique holes in it.” Presently, the property is owned by the Chicago Park District. It is named after Robert Alfred Black, a prominent south-side doctor and Chief Engineer to the Chicago Park District, who served the organization for over 30 years. There is also an elementary school that bears his name.

And because the Park District manages the course, affordability is the priority over perfect manicuring. The track is very walkable, and it is without any water hazards. It features tight fairways with some parallel layouts and limited space between holes. The longest hole is the first hole, which is the only par-5, and it stretches 481 yards. With a par of 33, the course spans 2,361 yards and holds a course rating of 31.5, with a slope rating of 104. Its difficulty level is comparable to other 9-hole courses like Tam GC, Boughton Ridge, Sugar Creek.

The practice area has one large putting green, and another small green with a bunker next to it. As can be expected for a Chicago Park District course, the pro shop is mostly a functional affair designed to get you on the course quickly. However there are golf necessities for sale, along with a few shirts and such. There is no restaurant here, just snacks and beverages for sale.