Fantastic day at Essex (Windsor ON), yesterday.

"It was moved by W.R. Campbell, seconded by Geo. Willoughby that the secretary be instructed to write Donald Ross (Golf Architect) and ascertain from him when the earliest date on which he could come here and consult re: laying out of the new course." - From the minutes of an Essex G&CC Directors meeting, February 23, 1928.

The short par 3 7th hole, where a drainage swale crossing between the tee and green provides some interesting topographic relief on an otherwise flat property. (Click to enlarge.)

"The original design at Essex is a perfect blend of complex putting surfaces matched with the varying lengths of tee and approach shots. It is a golf course that, throughout the years, has challenged every type of golfer from the greats of the game to your average 'Sunday afternoon' member." - Bruce Hepner, Golf Architect.

Looking over a beautiful cross-bunker short of the green at the par 4 16th hole. GolfClubAtlas.com's Ran Morrissett describes Essex' 16th as "one of Ross' best greens anywhere". (Click to enlarge.)

"Essex, for those of us old enough to play in that delightful 1976 Canadian Open, brings back warm and happy memories. The course was a fabulous and well cared for Donald Ross design.... the greens were superb and fascinating as well as 18 'interesting problems'." - Ben Crenshaw.

Golfweek magazine recently ranked Essex #10 on its list of the Best Canadian 'Classic' courses, built pre-1960.