Aurora Country Club in Illinois has chosen noted architect Raymond Hearn to develop a comprehensive master plan to renovate and restore its golf course.
The club traces its roots back more than a century. The original nine holes were crafted in 1914 by Tom Bendelow, often referred to as the “Johnny Appleseed of American Golf.” Just a year later, the course expanded to 18 holes, with some historians pointing to potential collaboration from renowned architect William Langford. In 1935, the legendary A.W. Tillinghast was brought in to provide additional refinements.
“It’s an honor and privilege to work with such a storied club,” said Hearn, president of Raymond Hearn Golf Course Designs. “Our objective is to create a long-range plan that blends sensitive restoration with forward-thinking design — a balance between honoring the past and adapting to the present.”
Aurora Country Club
Raymond Hearn is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in golf course architecture and renovation, known for his ability to blend historical preservation with innovative design. With a career spanning more than three decades, Hearn has developed a reputation for his thoughtful approach to master planning, restoring classic Golden Age courses while ensuring they remain relevant and playable for the modern game. His company, Raymond Hearn Golf Course Designs, has completed projects across the United States and internationally, earning awards and recognition from Golf Inc. and the American Society of Golf Course Architects.
Hearn’s portfolio includes extensive work at historic venues such as Bloomfield Hills Country Club in Michigan and Crestmont Country Club in New Jersey, where he has restored design features originally created by Donald Ross and Charles Banks. He has also led Chicagoland-area projects at Mistwood Golf Club, Midlothian Country Club and Flossmoor Country Club. Beyond restoration, Hearn has created innovative new designs such as Island Hills Golf Club in Michigan, where his creative use of land contours has been praised for both strategic interest and natural beauty.
Hearn’s efforts at Aurora will focus on reviving the traditional design elements that defined the course while ensuring the layout accommodates today’s game and modern turf management practices. He will collaborate closely with the club’s planning committee, which features PGA head professional Curtis Malm and superintendent John Gurke.
“We’ll be working hand in hand with the committee at every stage,” Hearn explained. “Once the master plan receives approval, I’ll help guide the club in structuring construction phases that align with its long-term goals.”
Tom Cross, chairman of the master planning committee, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “We’re committed to a thoughtful, member-driven process that ensures Aurora remains one of the premier golf experiences in the region. Partnering with Ray Hearn demonstrates our dedication to excellence as we look ahead to the future of our course.”
Aurora Country Club
Superintendent John Gurke, who has served at Aurora for more than three decades, sees the project as a fitting tribute to the club’s rich legacy. “This golf course has been shaped by some of the great names in design history. Ray brings the passion and expertise to respect that heritage while guiding us forward.”
Beyond its golf pedigree, Aurora Country Club has long been a centerpiece of the local community. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong traditions, the club offers its members a blend of challenging golf and vibrant social activities. From its stately clubhouse to its dedicated staff, Aurora continues to uphold a reputation as one of Illinois’ most respected private clubs.
The course itself has always been celebrated for its walkability and classic Golden Age character. Mature tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and subtly contoured greens provide a true test of golf while remaining enjoyable for players of all skill levels. With Hearn’s vision and the committee’s stewardship, Aurora Country Club is poised to preserve its rich past while elevating its place in the future of Chicagoland golf.
