Breaking Grounds in Golf
On December 5, 1879, John Matthew Shippen Jr. was born and went on to leave a lasting impression on golf history. As the son of Reverend John, who rose from the shackles of slavery to become a learned man of theology, young Shippen's path was one of both heritage and destiny. At nine, he moved to the Shinnecock Indian Reservation in Long Island, where his father served as a pastor and where John's golf journey began. Shippen's early years on the golf course, from clearing the land to mastering his swing under William Dunn Jr., laid the foundation for a remarkable life in golf.
John Matthew Shippen, Jr. in the 1896 U.S. Open.
A Historic U.S. Open Contender
In 1896, Shippen made history at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, breaking racial barriers as he competed valiantly against adversity and prejudice. Despite challenges from fellow competitors, Shippen's talent shone, culminating in a commendable fifth-place finish that forever secured his legacy as the first U.S.-born golf professional and the first African American to compete at this level.
John Shippen (fourth from the left) poses with members of the royal Golf club of Washington D.C., c. 1960. Shady Rest and the Royal Golf Club were members of the United States Colored Golfers Association (USCGA). The USCGA, now the United Golfers Association, was organized after black golfers were barred from competing in the Professional Golfers Association (PGA).
A Legend at Shady Rest
Shippen's most enduring legacy was at Shady Rest Country Club in Scotch Plains, NJ, where he served as the head professional from 1924 until his retirement in 1960. His tenure at Shady Rest was a period of golden years for the club, as it became a social and cultural nexus for Black intellectuals, artists, and athletes. Shippen's influence extended beyond the fairways as he nurtured the talents of many, including tennis legend Althea Gibson.
Inspiring Future Generations
Even after his passing, Shippen's contributions to golf have been honored and celebrated. In 2009, the PGA of America posthumously awarded him a PGA Membership card, and in 2018, he was inducted into the New Jersey Golf Association Hall of Fame's Inaugural Class. These honors are a testament to his groundbreaking role in the sport.
John Shippen Jr.'s legacy continues to inspire through the John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation and the annual tournament that bears his name. These initiatives aim to open doors for young African American golfers, providing them with opportunities to learn, grow, and excel in the sport that Shippen so loved.
The John Shippen Jr. Story
Discover the extraordinary legacy of John Shippen Jr., a figure who not only shaped the fairways of Shady Rest Country Club but also the course of history. Witness the story of the first African-American professional golfer, who overcame immense challenges to leave an indelible mark on the sport. Celebrate his pioneering spirit and the enduring impact of his achievements.
A Cultural Beacon
Shady Rest soon became an emblematic space within the African American community, epitomizing luxury, culture, and social congregation.
As Told by Swing City
Barbara J. Kukla's Swing City: Newark Nightlife, 1925-1950, describes the club as a haven for the affluent African American society.
The Dining Room's Legacy
Hosting figures like W.E.B. DuBois, Count Basie, and Billie Holiday, the dining room became a vibrant hub of cultural and social interaction.
Pioneering Golf History
Discover Shippen's groundbreaking journey as the first African-American to play in the U.S. Open.
Shaping The Club's Destiny
Discover Shippen's profound influence as the head pro of Shady Rest, America's first African American-owned golf club, through stirring anecdotes and video narratives.
A Lasting Impact
Learn how Shippen's legacy lives on, inspiring initiatives to preserve his memory and recognize his place in golf history.