The Kalispel Tribe of Washington has purchased the state’s oldest golf course, the Spokane Country Club, and renamed it the Kalispel Golf and Country Club.
The deal for the course, which was created in 1898, was finalized on December 8 for $3 million. The purchase took place amidst a long court battle complicated by bankruptcy proceedings.
The tribe operates Northern Quest Resort & Casino, which is several miles from the golf course. However, the tribe plans to offer “stay and play” packages through the casino.
The new name will feature a new logo with a frog, a figure from the tribe’s cultural heritage which represents “transformation, renewal and rebirth,” according to a spokesman.
Tribal Chairman Phil Haugen declared, “We bought it to make revenue but I think it’s a great project to express what Kalispel hospitality is. Your experience here is going to be matched by no other in the area. That’s Kalispel hospitality. We take great pride in that.”
Brandon Haugen, executive director of economic development for the tribe, added, “The first thing we’re going to take a look at is an enhanced food and beverage experience for members and non-members alike. We have a concept called the ‘gastropub’, which allows us to get very formal, yet in an informal manner, and will cater to the golf demographic as well as to outsiders who want to have a unique experience with food and beverage.”
Les Blakley, PGA, has been hired as the director of golf operations. Blakley has been with the club for over two decades.
The tribe also plans to install simulators, which allow golfers to hone their skills during the winter when the golf course is closed.
