Shady Rest Country Club

About

The Shady Rest Country Club is a historic was a country club and public golf course that was the first African-American country club established in the United States. It was established in 1921 in Scotch Plains in Union County, New Jersey. It is at 820 Jerusalem Road. From 1931 to 1964, it was the home of John Shippen (1879–1968), the first American professional golfer and the first African American to compete in the U.S. Open. His presence marked a golden era for the club, which became a vibrant social and cultural hub for Black intellectuals, artists, and athletes. The club had a 9-hole course, six tennis courts, croquet, horseback riding, a baseball diamond, and skeet shooting.

Shady Rest was founded with the mission of creating a recreational and cultural haven for African Americans of all ages. It offered a wide range of activities including golf, tennis, and horseback riding; all within a welcoming, inclusive environment.