Most golf scholars will tell you that the years between the creation of the National Golf Links of America on Long Island in 1911 ushered in the "Golden Age" of golf course architecture. Several golf course architects focused on “strategic course design,” making courses more fun and less punishing. The likes of Charles Blair MacDonald, Alister MacKenzie, Donald Ross, A.W. Tillinghast, and Seth Raynor continue to influence golf course architecture to this day. One of those who was seemingly forgotten was Perry Maxwell.
Maxwell, along with his partner Alister MacKenzie, designed Augusta National and several other well-known layouts but is best known for his prolific renovation of golf courses like Pine Valley Golf Club and Augusta National.
On Labor Day of 1948, Bayou DeSiard Country Club opened its doors as a 9-hole golf course on land donated by the Biedenharn family. In 1950, more land was acquired, and renowned golf course architect Perry Maxwell was brought in to design a second 9-hole layout and touch up the original nine. In 1951, Bayou DeSiard Country Club opened all 18 holes. Over the years the layout was touched up here and there and in 1988-89, course architect Ron Pritchard was hired to renovate the golf course and return it to its original design. Bayou DeSiard has been ranked one of the top courses in Louisiana ever since.
As you make your way around the golf course at Bayou DeSiard Country Club, you’ll find beautifully manicured golf holes with tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water on 10 holes. Lush 419 Bermuda grass fairways lead to challenging mini Verdi greens. Fairways tend to be wide open and off the tee and the greens are well-undulated. The golf course is easy to walk; Director of Golf Nick Ellison estimates that about 85% of their winter rounds are golfers who walk the course.
Bayou DeSiard is well known for having the best short-game facility in the area. “The Triangle,” consisted of three practice greens that could be used for target shots up to 170 yards, with bunkers all around the greens. But what was missing was a chipping green. There is also a full-length driving range where you can hit every club in your bag as well as a practice putting green.
If you prefer the courts over the course, Bayou DeSiard has some impressive tennis facilities with 7 lighted courts - 2 HydroCourts and 5 hard courts. Several of the tennis hard courts double as pickleball courts. The tennis staff can help you with new equipment, apparel, and lessons to get the most out of those new purchases!
Bayou DeSiard prides itself on being a private “family-oriented club.” Nowhere is this more evident than at the swimming pool. Parents come here to relax and recharge while the kids are content just splashing about or participating in courtyard activities or the playground. Lifeguards are on duty at all times, plenty of lounge chairs, and the fully stocked and staffed Courtyard bar and grill will help satisfy your hunger and thirst. The area around the pool is also available for weddings and special events. Events are a large part of DeSiard's social calendar, and they offer a bevy of catering options and a stunning array of menu items for all occasions.
The 19th Hole has the vibes of a Scottish pub and is a great place to grab a bite before or after your round. They offer a very unique menu between lunch and dinner. Both venues offer the same menu for lunch and dinner and if it’s available, I highly recommend the Southern Fried Chicken buffet, with greens, mashed potatoes, and sweet tea. You won’t leave hungry.
Bayou DeSiard Country Club is currently accepting new members to their private, member-owned club. Each membership also includes the member’s spouse and children under the age of 24. There are several levels of membership available; just ask one of the friendly staff members.