Pinehurst, North Carolina

Designated as the “Home of American Golf,” Pinehurst is a small village in Moore County, located some 112 km (70 miles) from North Carolina’s capital city Raleigh; with a total area of 17. 2 square miles, Pinehurst had a population of around 17, 581 according to the 2020 census, an increase of 4, 000 from the 2010 census.86% of the population identify as White, with African American, Latino, and Asian encompassing the remaining 14%. Since the 1950s, Pinehurst has experienced continuous population growth. From a modest 1,000 inhabitants in 1950 to just over 9,000 in the year 2000, the village of Pinehurst continues to attract more visitors and permanent residents.

Climate Of Pinehurst

Summers in Pinehurst are noted for being hot and muggy, with wetness and cloudiness year-round; winters are short and mildly cold. July is typically the hottest month with an average high of 32 C (89 F), with January being the coldest, holding an average high temperature of 11 C (51 F). Besides being the hottest month, July is also Pinehurst’s wettest month, with at least 1 millimeter of precipitation on 14 of 31 days.Three streams, Horse Creek, Aberdeen Creek, and Joes Fork, notably have their headwaters in Pinehurst and the surrounding area.

History Of Pinehurst

Businessman James Walker Tufts first developed the site of today’s Pinehurst in 1895; Tufts purchased 5,500 acres of land in the area, intending to build a health and golf resort. With the aid of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead, the pair designed the village, which still features many of their original concepts today. These include many curving lanes and a picturesque central green.Initially known as Tuftstown during its development stage, it became the village of Pinehurst shortly after. However, it remained uncompleted when Tufts died in 1902. Both James’ son and grandson then oversaw the continuation of Pinehurst’s growth.

Attractions In Pinehurst

The Pinehurst Resort Golf Club was amongst the first things Tufts established when he purchased the land; though it was still not finished at his death, the Tufts family were determined to construct a golf course that would attract locals and foreigners alike.Completed in 1907 by designer and golfer Donald Ross, with one course, Pinehurst Resort now has nine separate golf courses; players and visitors can also stay on the premises with a choice of three hotels, a spa, and numerous other leisure facilities across the property.Pinehurst Resort has hosted multiple US Open Championships and is tentatively scheduled to host the 2024 and 2029 tournaments.

Due to the popularity and large demand for use at the Resort, a second Golf Club was established in 1963 named The Country Club of North Carolina; this 36-hole course has also hosted major tournaments, including the US Amateur, and has been ranked as one of the top 100 Golf Clubs in the United States.

In addition to its golfing roots, Pinehurst has also cultivated a strong equestrian community and is the home of the Pinehurst Racetrack, completed in 1915. The track has hosted several tournaments like its golf counterparts, including the Stoneybrook Steeplechase. For its many resort complexes, landscape design, and cultural importance for the history of golf in the United States, much of central Pinehurst was designated a National Historic Landmark District, affording the area a degree of protection and conservation. Pinehurst Resort and Racetrack are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places.For visitors (or players) who wish to take a break from their golf game or horse riding, the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens is another popular spot; free of charge, this 27-acre area of various garden types is a great place to relax and tale a leisurely stroll. 

Finally, there is the Mystic Cottage, home of James Walker Tufts, the man who started it all in Pinehurst. This now museum house, built in 1899, includes 14 rooms and a unique wrap-around porch giving its guests a special look at residential living in the early 1900s.

Pinehurst, North Carolina, is undoubtedly a resort town. Whether you visit for its rich golfing heritage and famed courses, its beloved Racetrack facilities, or for a quick walk-through peaceful gardens and greenery, going to Pinehurst is a trip sure to create tranquility and relaxation.