Since 1930
Course History
Our Story
The Oldest Active Course Between Nashville and Knoxville
Belle Acres Golf Course opened on May 1, 1930, and holds the distinction of being the oldest active course between Nashville and Knoxville, Tennessee. It was built by Dr. J.P. Terry with the assistance of Arnold Mears, a professional at Richland Golf Course in Nashville.
From its humble beginnings with 7 holes and sand greens, the course has evolved over nearly a century into the beloved 9-hole layout it is today — a testament to the enduring love of golf in the Cookeville community.
Timeline
Milestones
Opening Day
Belle Acres Golf Course opened on May 1, 1930, making it the oldest active course between Nashville and Knoxville, Tennessee. It was built by Dr. J.P. Terry with the help of Arnold Mears, a pro at Richland Golf Course in Nashville.
7 Holes & Sand Greens
Belle Acres originally had only 7 holes with sand greens. Two more holes were added about a year later, bringing the course to its full 9-hole layout.
Greens Improvements
The sand greens were eventually converted to cotton-seed hulls. A later conversion to Bermuda grass was troubled by crabgrass, prompting a final change to today's bentgrass greens — the surface that golfers enjoy on every visit today.
Still Going Strong
Belle Acres Golf Course continues to welcome golfers of all skill levels as the oldest active course in the region. With a beautifully redesigned 9-hole, par-35 layout stretching 2,923 yards from the championship tees and the area's largest practice facility, the course's legacy lives on.
