History:
Shephard Hills was originally part of the estate of Helen Gould Shepard, daughter of railroad magnate Jay Gould, a Roxbury native son. She purchased the course property, which included Kirkside Lake, in the early 1900's and it served as a continuation to Kirkside - her main street Roxbury residence. Kirkside Lake supplied ice for the village in the winter months and recreation for the summer.
Miss Gould began to develop both Kirkside and the golf course with an extensive landscape design, including rustic bridges, gazebos, and stone terraces and walkways that connected Kirkside Lake with the golf course. Most of the stone walkways are still intact today and provide the opportunity for a nostalgic walk in the woods.
The 9-hole course was designed by one of the country's leading golf course architects with construction beginning in 1916. Upon completion of the course in 1918, Shephard Hills was recognized as one of the finest estate courses in the region - similar to those in the Hudson Valley. The course included a manmade lake and a stone cottage (presently used as the clubhouse) that was used as a residence for the Shepard's summer visitors.
Upon the death of Finley and Helen Shepard, the course was deeded to their daughter, Helen Anna, and remained in the family until 1972 when it was sold into the private sector. At this time, the course is leased to the Shephard Hills Golf Association and has been operated as a membership-driven organization opened to the public.
Today, Shephard Hills remains one of the region's most challenging golf courses enhanced by the historic charm and hometown hospitality.
