County Seat Newspaper
of Clare County

Devil’s Knob Golf Course- Mid-Michigan's hidden treasure

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Duane Baumer was still on crutches because of war injuries when he and his wife, Dorothy, purchased an eighty-acre farm on Cranberry Lake Road in 1946. They farmed for nearly twenty years, raising five daughters. It was a slow and tedious project converting fields of hay, rye, and pasture into fairways and greens. The family endured numerous hours picking rocks and creating greens. One day in 1965 the fields were mowed, the last milk cow sent off, and the land came known as “Devil’s Knob, a nine-hole golf course.” A fee of one dollar was taken in from an old farmhouse on Rodgers Road and irrigating greens was done with hoses at night.

Though the old farmland and country atmosphere still remain, the nine-hole golf course has evolved into a popular golfing destination for local residents, cabin folks, and tourists. Known initially as “the tortuous nine,” some green locations and tees were rearranged or relocated to facilitate play. But one hole has not been altered, “the Knob,” or hole #8, the signature hole. This hole will remain the challenge and reputation it has earned!

Duane passed in 1986, Dororthy in 1990 with their daughter Joan, assuming the responsibilities of managing the course. Over the years, the Baumer sisters and grandchildren have assisted the Baumers, and Joan, contributing to a family business atmosphere. A log clubhouse was built in 1990. Automatic irrigation with watered fairways were added in 2000.

Today, the course opens in early spring and closes the end of October, weather dependent! Hours vary, but 7 a.m. until dark is typical during the summer months. There is a Tuesday evening mens league, Monday morning ladies league, Thursday morning mixed league and evening open scramble. The course hosts numerous events including family reunions, tournaments, fundraisers, bachelor, and birthday parties. A large, covered deck is available to these groups or to any golfer. Devi’s Knob slogans include, “family friendly fairway” and “the best price a’round.” Because the fairways are wide and the prices reasonable, it makes for a perfect course to learn to play golf. Rentals clubs are available for men, women and children-children’s clubs are included in a child’s green fee.

Golfers of all ages and skill levels are invited to come and experience “the Knob,” hospitality, and the beauty and serenity of old farm countryside that is bedecked with seasonal flowers, shrubs, and trees. There is an abundance of wildlife as well as sounds emitting from neighboring farm animals. Old farm apple trees ornament gentle hillsides with a parade of blossoms in the spring an apple snack in late summer.

Come make Devil’s Knob your favorite little up-north course!

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