To build on that idea, in 1926, Mr. Ward and his family donated 175 acres of rolling land nestled up to 200 feet of Orchard Lake lakefront for the purpose off establishing Orchard Lake Country Club. Construction of the golf course began in the spring of 1926, under the direction of Captain Charles Hugh. Alison. The result was a classic Colt & Alison creation. Beautifully sculpted greens sat upon yawning bunkers as players navigated the terrain that made the course both beautiful and challenging. Capt. Alison said the course was built for the average player but it could be transformed, within two or three months, into a professional championship course. The 18-hole course features 7,104 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 71. The course rating is 73.4 and it has a slope rating of 131 on Bent grass. Brian Dice manages the course as the Director of Golf.