Education is at the heart of Shady Rest’s mission. Through curated field trips, board of education partnerships, and on-site learning experiences, the club is becoming a living classroom for students of all ages. Local schools are invited to explore the legacy of John Shippen, the history of Black excellence in golf and tennis, and the cultural significance of Shady Rest through guided tours, hands-on activities, and storytelling. These programs are designed to spark curiosity, build pride, and connect young learners to a history that’s deeply rooted in their own communities.

Ever wonder if the walls could talk? At Shady Rest, they’d whisper stories of celebration through jazz-filled nights, a community of trailblazers, and a place to overcome cultural challenges. To capture those voices, we’re launching a new storytelling project that invites descendants of original members and longtime community figures to share their stories. These first-hand accounts and multigenerational memories will be the heartbeat of our museum and preservation efforts as it will ensure that the soul of Shady Rest is honored with accuracy and authenticity.

Shady Rest hosts a vibrant calendar of community events that showcase history, culture, and community belonging. Highlights include live jazz nights that echo the rhythms of the past, wonderful firework displays, grand movie showings, and more. Guests have enjoyed mouthwatering food options, warm acoustics, and a family-friendly environment. These gatherings will not only honor Shady Rest’s legacy but ensure it remains a living, breathing part of the community.

For many years, the John Shippen Memorial Golf Academy empowered hundreds of children to learn golf at Shady Rest Country Club. Partnered with the First Tee and golf professionals such as Lee Elder and Renee Powell provided priceless opportunities to learn golf through weekly instruction and special clinics. The scholarship program offered an opportunity into education for many golfers, including Isaiah Marseille, a NCAA Division I golfer at Drexel University.

While the John Shippen Memorial Golf Academy has ceased, Preserve Shady Rest, has embarked on a new revive of the golf academy. Alongside Jim Beatty Golf Ventures, this initiative will provide countless opportunities in golf and education for young children.