Area golfers received some bad news last week from Salem Hills Golf Course owner Frank Godwin.
In a letter to customers, Godwin explained that the popular golf course will close permanently at the end October.
“It was always our hope that we would find a buyer that would continue operating Salem as a golf course,” Godwin wrote. “Since that did not happen, we feel this decision is best for our family. These are difficult times for many.”
According to reports, the 6,992-yard, par-72 located off Six Mile Road in Northville, has not been sold, although there has been what was described as “some preliminary interest.” The course opening in 1963 and opened in 1963, and was designed by Michigan golf legend Bruce Matthews. It was formerly the site of a qualifier for the PGA Tour Buick Open.
COVID-19 had a serious impact on many golf courses throughout the state which were shut down for several weeks, but the pandemic was not the prime factor in the decision to close Salem Hills, according to reports.
The facility has an aging infrastructure, one employee noted, although the volume of golfers has been strong since the shutdown of courses was lifted by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Frank and Veronica Godwins also owned what now is Walnut Creek Country Club in South Lyon from 1969-88, and Marion Oaks Golf Club in Howell from 1990-2003.
“We will be forever indebted to our loyal staff,” Godwin wrote last week. “Thank you very much for your support of Salem Hills. We will remember and be thankful for you all.”
