Maxwelton Braes Golf Course

Maxwelton Braes Golf Course opened in 1929 and is a long standing tradition in Door County golf history. Our 6,041 yard, par 70, championship golf course features a variety of interesting green contours, green surrounds, green side bunkers, wide fairways, a few short par 4 and 5 holes as well as some longer, more challenging holes to test all skill levels.

History of Maxwelton Braes

On a visit home to Baileys Harbor from Chicago, Michael McArdle and his brother, Jim, sat at the kitchen table and talked about building a golf course on what had been the McArdle family farm. Michael McArdle was an avid and accomplished golfer and belonged to several prestigious Chicago golf clubs. They sketched out the course on a piece of paper and the next day the brothers walked the property and discussed the layout.

Several weeks later, Michael returned with a friend, who was a professional at his home golf course, Westmoreland, in Wilmette, IL, to look at the property and the concept of Maxwelton Braes. Michael negotiated the purchase of the land and the construction of the country club began in 1929. Local contractors and materials were used whenever possible during the construction. Michael's brother, Jim, was his professional representative during the construction process.

The course was designed by Joseph R. Roseman of Chicago, a well known golf course architect who worked on over 100 courses. The west side "9" was completed and open to the public later in 1929 and the second "9" on the east side was completed in 1931. The clubhouse at Maxwelton Braes was originally open for selected members and invited guests only. A few years later the clubhouse was made available to the public. When construction was completed, Michael McArdle bought the McArdle homestead and restored the home for himself.