History & Tradition
Athens Country Club came to life and flourished through the vision of an extraordinary family - the Dudleys. From the wisdom of Lon Dudley back in the early 1900's, to the stewardship and unshakable belief in the club throughout its history, the Dudley family nurtured, protected and eventually realized their dream of a thriving private club in the beloved classic city – Athens, Georgia.
Athens Country Club was the brainchild of Lon Dudley, a man of modest means who believed in the value of honesty and hard work. He used both to create an empire and along the way cultivated strong friendships and alliances. Lon's deep love for Athens led to his vision of a club that would provide the finest in services and amenities, offering a measureless environment paired with an enhanced lifestyle. Lon's dream came to fruition with the opening of ACC in 1926.
As the club grew in popularity, Lon knew that a golf course was non-negotiable and he employed the talents of a matter-of-fact Scotsman, Donald Ross, to design the club's original 18-hole course. From that day forward, the course has entertained players of local and national rank, including Bob Jones, the immortal gentleman golfer. Athens Country Club has held fast to the Ross design principles to this day with the enthusiastic support of its members and guests. ACC welcomed an additional nine holes designed by UGA-graduate and golf course architect, George Cobb, in the 1980’s.
After the death of 1950 Club President, Jimmy Dudley, in 2010, the contributions of the entire Dudley family were honored through the construction of the Dudley Memorial Garden. The garden was filled with Jimmy's favorite flowers and shrubs, camelias and red geraniums, and a bronze plaque recognizing the family's love, care and contributions to ACC.
Athens Country Club has long served as a social and recreational cornerstone for residents of Athens and its surrounding communities. Throughout history, the club's contributions to civic affairs, athletics and the cultural heritage of Athens has gained immense recognition throughout the region and we look forward to the many years and exceptional memories to come for Athens Country Club as we grow our history.