While several courses in the region can claim this “century” milestone, St. Andrews is recognized by the National Golf Foundation as, “The oldest family owned and operated golf course in Illinois”. Having been in the Jemsek-Hinckley family for five generations, the 36-hole facility (which includes a 35-acre Practice Center and Banquet facilities) continues to provide excellence in public golf.
Marianne Jemsek-Hinckley, who grew up in the family home along the first fairway, is currently leading the business with her sons and grandchildren all contributing. Marianne’s business philosophy has always been to “go above and beyond to provide a great course, treat people well, and work hard”.
Joe Jemsek, Marianne’s father, was a leader in Chicago golf until his death in 2002. As the second-generation owner/operator along with his wife Grace, Joe started two of golf’s first T.V. shows, “Par’s Birdies and Eagles” and “All-Star Golf” which later became “Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf”. Additionally, Joe was named 1991’s PGA Professional of the Year and the first golf professional to serve on the USGA’s Executive Committee. While at St. Andrews, Joe experimented with bringing private club amenities to public golfers. These efforts, and his building of the Dubsdread Course at Cog Hill, are credited with starting the development of high-quality public courses in the U.S.
At 100 years, St. Andrews is not sitting back on its past successes. The Jemsek-Hinckley family continues to invest in yearly upgrades to their courses, clubhouse, and practice center. According to Marianne, “We’ve been blessed with amazing community support and employees for many years. We’ve worked hard to overcome many obstacles, but we are investing in the future to make St. Andrews an even better facility for years to come – Thank you, Chicagoland!!”
