Sawmill Golf Course

The vision for Sawmill began with Carl Schwenker and his dream of building a golf course, following on his successful pool and home construction businesses. After searching for locations throughout Niagara, a dairy farm on Sawmill Road was selected. The rural property was characterized by gently rolling hills, deciduous forests, and two meandering creeks. Once the land was purchased by George and Gail Julie (Carl's daughter), they moved into the farmhouse at the front of the property, and construction on the course and clubhouse began. The course, designed by Gord Witteveen and Nicol Thompson, opened for play in 1976 to humble beginnings. Despite mediocre playing condtions in the early years, the layout took advantage of the existing natural features and many trees were planted. As the course matured with trees, new tees and bunkers were built (or renovated), cart paths were installed, and turf conditions flourished.