Links to the Past: The Hidden History on Texas Golf Courses

As they tee up, make their approach shots, or line up their putts, few Texan golfers likely realize that the familiar landscapes of tee boxes, fairways, and greens can obscure stories from the past that played out on those same grounds. In Links to the Past: The Hidden History on Texas Golf Courses, authors Dan K. Utley and Stanley O. Graves take readers on a historic (and prehistoric) tour of eighteen Texas golf courses that have surprising connections to history.On the “front nine,” points of interest include encounters with dinosaur fossils near Austin, a Comanche raid on a Spanish mission near Menard, and a battle between Anglo buffalo hunters and Native Americans near Lubbock. The “back nine” explores reminders of the East Texas lumber industry near Diboll, a training ground for the Rough Riders outside downtown San Antonio, and a race riot near Houston in 1917, among other locations.Fun, compelling, and enlightening, this book is a reminder that history has occurred all around us, not just in historic districts, state parks, or even where official state markers might be found. Featuring “scorecards” for each course that include location, historical facts, and a “signature hole of history,” as well as historical and contemporary photographs and informative sidebars, Links to the Past is sure to entertain. Golfers, history buffs, and heritage tourists will want to toss this handy and engaging book in the front seat of the car-or zip it into the side pocket of their golf bags.

Reviews of Links to the Past: The Hidden History on Texas Golf Courses

"I found in reading Links To The Past a fascinating, fresh presentation of Texas courses that continue to be popular with golfers around the state. What is most interesting is the direct link to what happened historically upon and around these sites. This is a completely different way to look into legendary stories of Texas as they intertwine with the rich history of Texas golf." –Ben Crenshaw, Two-time Masters Champion and member of the World Golf Hall of Fame–Ben Crenshaw