PGA of America History - 1920-1929

  • 1920:
    • The first issue of The Professional Golfer of America is published in May by The PGA, with P.C. Pulver named editor.
  • 1921:
    • Walter Hagen becomes the first American-born PGA Champion, defeating two-time winner James M. Barnes, 3 and 2, at Inwood Country Club in Far Rockaway, N.Y.
    • Jock Hutchison becomes the first American citizen to win the British Open.
    • The USGA starts operation of its Green Section.
  • 1922:
    • Manufacturers advised that $3 should be the maximum price for a PGA line of irons.
    • Gene Sarazen wins his first PGA Championship at the age of 20.
    • Walter Hagen becomes the first American-born golfer to win the British Open.
    • The USGA adopts suggestion of The PGA to play the U.S. Open annually in June.
  • 1923:
    • At its Annual Meeting, The PGA recommends that all PGA steel-shafted iron models be stamped, "This head approved by The PGA."
    • Gene Sarazen wins his second consecutive PGA Championship, defeating Walter Hagen, 1-up, at Pelham Country Club in Pelham Manor, N.Y.
    • The Association votes for a $600 annual salary for its secretary-treasurer.
  • 1924:
    • The PGA Champion is exempted from qualifying rounds to the PGA Championship.
    • Walter Hagen wins his second PGA Championship, 2-up, over previous two-time Champion James M. Barnes.
  • 1925:
    • An Entry fee of $5 charged for PGA Championship qualifying rounds.
    • The Association votes for a $1,000 annual salary for secretary-treasurer.
    • Membership grows to 1,305.
  • 1926:
    • Official figures show membership in The PGA now at 1,548.
    • Steel shafts are legalized by USGA.
  • 1927:
    • Samuel A. Ryder presents the Ryder Cup as a prize for the inaugural international competition between American and British professional golfers. The United States defeats Great Britain 9 ½ to 2 ½ at Worcester (Mass.) Country Club.
    • Walter Hagen wins his fifth PGA Championship, and his fourth in a row, at Cedar Crest Country Club in Dallas, Texas.
  • 1928:
    • Motion passed at Annual Meeting to raise dues for PGA members from $5 to $10.
  • 1929:
    • Steel shafts are legalized by Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland.
    • Motion passed at Annual Meeting to raise dues for PGA members from $10 to $50.
    • Hal Sharkey named to manage fledgling Tournament Bureau.
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Derek Sprague
Vice President
Paul Levy
Secretary
Allen Wronowski
Honorary President
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