Battling the Church Pews: The History of Golf's Premier Events in Western Pennsylvania

There are few areas in the country that can match the incredible history of professional golf in western Pennsylvania. From Bobby Jones dominating the competition in the 1925 U.S. Amateur, to Ben Hogan's inspirational win at the 1953 U.S. Open, and a young Jack Nicklaus overcoming Arnold Palmer and his loyal legion of fans, "Arnie's Army," in the 1962 U.S. Open at Oakmont, Battling the Church Pews tells the remarkable story of these extraordinary championship moments.

In total, 42 national championships and major tournaments have been played in this area. Names like Nicklaus, Hogan, Langer, Carner, Miller, Wright, Jones, and Sarazen have all earned their place on the winners' list. So have underdogs such as S. Davidson Herron, Mike Reid, Joe Daley, and the University of Pittsburgh's Sam Parks Jr., who captured the U.S. Open in 1935.

While many of these memorable championships were contested at Oakmont, other iconic courses in the region have also hosted these prestigious events. Places like Laurel Valley Golf Club, Pittsburgh Field Club, Fox Chapel Golf Club, Allegheny Country Club, Sewickley Heights Golf Club, the Kahkwa Club in Erie, St. Clair Country Club, The Longue Vue Club, and even the now-defunct Churchill Valley Country Club have all produced incredible moments.

Their tales are all here, accompanied by many wonderful photographs. The story is told by local historians and authors David Finoli, Tom Rooney, and Chris Fletcher, as well as Oakmont historian David Moore, who brings his in-depth knowledge of the sport to the project.

In 2025, Oakmont will host its 10th U.S. Open-a feat unmatched by any other golf course in the country-and Battling the Church Pews will prepare golf fans for the continuation of this incredible story.