Tyranena Golf Course

Tyranena Golf Course circa 1930's

The Tyranena Golf Club traces its beginnings to 1926, when a group of Lake Mills businessmen purchased the former George Everson farm, an 80-acre property first settled in 1866. The old farmhouse on the land was adapted into a clubhouse and, despite many additions over the decades, still forms the heart of the building today.

In 1927, 140 men invested in the dream of a hometown course, formally organizing the Tyranena Golf Club with Ty Neupert as its first president. The nine-hole course opened for play on July 1, 1927, shaped largely by hand. Fairways were cut with an old Ford tractor pulling a five-gang mower, while the roughs were harvested for hay using teams of horses and hand tools. Stones cleared from the fields were piled along what is now the ninth fairway, becoming the familiar landmark known as “The Chocolate Drop.”

The early care of the course fell to dedicated local hands. Henry Drewes, a longtime Lake Mills grocer, became manager in 1928 and lived in the clubhouse with his wife during the playing season. He was followed by Harley Black in the 1930s, who managed the club until World War II, when officers of the club assumed those duties. Throughout many of these years, Bernie “Put” Hoyt served as greenskeeper and golf professional. The clubhouse itself was enlivened by managers of its social side, including Mary Bleecker, Roland Christensen, and Anna Blossom, who each oversaw meals and gatherings that became an important part of club life.

In 1946, the course was leased to Gilbert Bergdoll, a former club champion, and soon after George Wright arrived from Indiana, taking a long-term lease and purchasing shares from original stockholders. Wright later sold his interest in 1957 to Tom Lees, a prominent local golfer who ushered in a new era. Lees modernized the clubhouse, expanded dining and social events, and creatively used alternate tee placements to give players the feel of an 18-hole course. After his death in 1976, his sons Michael and John continued the family’s stewardship, including the winter tradition of cross-country skiing on the fairways.

The Lake Mills Women's Club met regularly at the Tyranena Golf Course for social events, many of the women were also Golf Club members and participated in Women's Golf Tournaments.

A new chapter began in 1991 when Fremont “Monte” Lounsbury acquired the property, expanded the course to a full 18 holes, and made further improvements to both the grounds and clubhouse. In 2004, Marc Nelson took ownership, undertook extensive renovations, and reopened the facility as the Lake Mills Golf Club.

Today, one of the state’s most challenging and well-loved golf layouts—a place meticulously shaped by generations of dedicated managers, enthusiastic members, and passionate players—stands at a critical juncture. This beloved course may be facing an uncertain future due to a proposed housing development that threatens to transform the landscape, despite the fact that it has served as an anchor for our community's social activities for exactly 100 years in 2026. Over the decades, this course has not only been a venue for sport but also a gathering place, fostering friendships, hosting tournaments, and creating cherished memories that resonate deeply within the hearts of those who have walked its fairways.

As we reflect on the importance of this cherished golf course, we recognize that it has been more than just a place to play; it has been a vital part of our community’s identity. Generations of families have spent countless weekends and summer evenings here, sharing laughter and stories while perfecting their swings. The lush greens and well-maintained fairways have witnessed milestones such as first holes-in-one, family outings, and community events that have brought together individuals from all walks of life. The thought of losing this historic course is not just about the loss of a recreational space; it represents a potential loss of community cohesion and shared experiences that have enriched our lives.

In light of this looming development, one potential avenue for preserving this long-standing asset could be the revival of the old structure of shareholders. This model, which once allowed community members to invest in and manage the course collectively, could provide a viable path forward. By bringing back the shareholders, we might foster a renewed sense of ownership and responsibility towards the golf course, ensuring that it remains a green sanctuary for future generations to enjoy. The involvement of local stakeholders could also lead to innovative ideas for sustainability and community engagement, allowing the course to thrive in ways that honor its storied past while adapting to contemporary needs.

Alternatively, there is the possibility that a forward-thinking investor may recognize the intrinsic value of keeping this historic course green. Such an investor could appreciate not only the financial potential of a thriving golf course but also the social and cultural significance it holds within our community. By investing in the maintenance and enhancement of the course, they could help preserve a vital piece of our local heritage, ensuring that it continues to serve as a gathering place for friends and families alike.

Whatever the future may hold for our beloved golf course, it is essential to remember the myriad memories made while driving to the green, the camaraderie built over rounds of golf, and the friendships forged that have lasted a lifetime. The echoes of laughter, the thrill of competition, and the serene moments spent in nature all contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences that define our community. As we navigate these uncertain times, let us come together to advocate for the preservation of this iconic course, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of our lives for many more decades to come.