The PGA of America’s origin can be traced to January 17, 1916, when a group of New York area golf professionals, accompanied by several prominent amateur golfers, attended a luncheon hosted by department store magnate Rodman Wanamaker. The purpose of the gathering was to discuss forming a national organization which would promote interest in the game of golf and help elevate the vocation of golf professional. Little did Wnamaker or his guests realize that they were laying the groundwork for what would become the world’s largest working sports organization.

Meetings were held over the next two months, and on April 10, 1916, with constitution and by-laws firmly in hand, 82 charter members created the Professional Golfers’ Association of America in New York City. The first PGA Championship was held October 9-14, 1916, at the Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, NY. Wanamaker honored his pledge and donated a purse of $2,580 and the trophy which today still bears his name.

In May 1920, the first issue of The Professional Golfer of America was published. Percy C. Pulver, a golf writer for the New York Evening Sun who had attended that first meeting was named editor. The magazine was renamed PGA Magazine in 1977, and today is America’s oldest golf publication.

The PGA of America conducts more than 30 tournaments, including such prominent events as the Ryder Cup Matches and the PGA Seniors’ Championship, for its members and apprentices. Through a network of 41 section offices, the Association maintains a total commitment to the club professional, helping the membership meet the demands of today’s marketplace and addressing vital issues such as pace of play, environmental concerns and accessibilty.

Since 1916, the PGA of America has established new standards of excellence by expanding educational opportunities, programs and services for its members. However, the Association stands firm and continues to flourish on the principles that were set down by it founders.