We put some wooden posts in the side of a hill along the fairway that represent the remains of a fort from the 1650’s. “This also inspired stories to share throughout the course.

“It’s my own philosophy and the Native American philosophy that we always try to make the design fit the land, and truly allow it to reflect the principles of Native Americans’ respect for the land,” said Albanese, a Harvard University transplant who now lives in Plymouth, Mich. This dedication to nature and the area’s heritage make for a unique golf experience. Throughout the course, golfers encounter the rich history of the Hannahville Indian Community, with holes named after traditional Potawatomi clans, villages, allies, medicines, and symbols. Sweetgrass also features historic wood and iron bridges repurposed from other parts of the state, adding compelling design components to the course while deepening a story woven in Native American roots.

The greens are also some of the most fun to putt, featuring Redan, Biarritz, Island, and Double-green. The prairie links-style course meanders to a wide-open vista where many greens and flags can be seen in the distance. The course’s name, Sweetgrass, refers to an aromatic herb and sacred plant used in Native American peace and healing rituals that is planted throughout the course. In 2008 the Hannahville Indian Community hired acclaimed Golf Course Architect Paul Albanese to build its first golf course. The resort, located just west of Escanaba, Michigan, is owned by the Hannahville Band of the Potawatomi Nation.

The demand is partially due to the golf boom in lower northern Michigan that has now extended north into Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula. In the case of Island Resort & Casino in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, exceptional growth and demand for golf has been the norm since Sweetgrass Golf Club opened 15 years ago.Īs one of the Midwest’s largest resort casino destinations, Island Resort & Casino recognized golf’s popularity and its growth across Michigan – now a top golf destination in the country. Harris, MI – Slow and steady growth is a common mantra of business professionals and organizations. Twitter Facebook Pinterest Email Resort and casino evolve into one of the leading Midwest golf destinations.

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