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In his heartfelt letter dated September 2, 1992, Mr. Kuntz emphasized the importance of recognizing Shippen as one of the early and unrecognized pioneers of American golf. His gesture was not just a donation but a symbolic passing of the torch, acknowledging Shippen's enduring impact.
At the Foundation, we are committed to honoring Mr. Kuntz's wishes by giving him proper recognition whenever the gooseneck putter is displayed. His contribution has unveiled a piece of golf history that echoes alongside Shippen's legacy whenever showcased.
For further insights into this historical artifact, you can explore the History Detectives Season 2, Episode 12 from 2004, where Elyse Luray and Gwen Wright delve into its intriguing story. You can access the complete transcript here.
John Matthew Shippen:
A Legacy of Resilience and Triumph
In the annals of American history, amidst a backdrop of racial discrimination and societal challenges, John Matthew Shippen stands out as a beacon of resilience and determination. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming the first African American golf professional is a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering passion for the game.
Early Life and Introduction to Golf
John Matthew Shippen was born in Washington, DC, the son of a black Presbyterian minister. His upbringing instilled in him the values of perseverance and hard work. At the tender age of 12, Shippen embarked on his golfing odyssey as a caddie at the prestigious Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Long Island, NY. Learning the game on his own, and by the age of 15, he was being paid $15 for the summer to give lessons to the all-white club members.
Breaking Barriers at the U.S. Open of 1896
The pivotal moment in Shippen's life came in 1896 when he and his friend Oscar Bunn, a Native American, participated in the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. Despite facing opposition and discriminatory remarks from professionals, Shippen's talent and determination shone through. He not only competed but also excelled, tying for first place after the first round and finishing fifth overall.
According to the documentation, Theodore A. Havemeyer, being the first president of the USGA, which was formed in 1894 was instrumental in Shippen and Bunn participating in the Open. The day before the Open, the professionals looked at Shippen and Bunn during practice rounds and told tournament officials that “Under no circumstances would they compete against these two outsiders.” At that time golfing professionals came from Scotland and England. When the professionals continued to protest, Havemeyer issued the ultimatum “We will play the Open with you or without you.” The tournament commenced with all thirty-five entrants present. Nobody withdrew.
Shippen was paired with Charles MacDonald, a stockbroker who won the first U.S. Open Amateur Tournament held the year before. After the first round, Shippen was tied for first with five others. Macdonald lagged behind Shippen and felt so humiliated, he refused to continue into the second round.
On the 13th hole of the second round, Shippen hit his ball onto a sandy road. It took eleven strokes to complete the hole – this was before the sand wedge and he wound up finishing fifth, taking home a purse of $10.
Perseverance Amidst Adversity
Shippen's journey was not without its challenges. Denied membership in the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) due to his ancestry, Shippen continued to pursue his passion for golf relentlessly. His contributions to the game extended beyond competitions; he designed courses, crafted golf clubs, and shared his expertise through teaching.
Legacy of Empowerment and Inspiration
Shippen continued playing golf and was later a pro at several golf clubs. It is recorded that Shippen never earned more than $4,000 in one year, which came from the sale of balls and clubs and fees for lessons. But by 1925, Shippen finally found stability and became the golf professional and ground supervisor at Shady Rest Golf and Country Club in Scotch Plains, the first African American-owned country club in the USA, where he spent the next 35 years as a teaching pro. It is told that Shippen would bet a dollar he could outdrive any challenger on the course. As it is told, a few dollars were used to escape him. Shippen retired in the 1960s and died in a nursing home on July 15, 1968, at the age of ninety. Buried in an unmark grave, marker 71 in NJ – A Forgotten Golf Pioneer.
Honoring Shippen's Legacy
As we reflect on the life and legacy of John Matthew Shippen we celebrate his courage, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Shippen's story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the power of resilience and determination in overcoming adversity. Join us in honoring a forgotten golf pioneer whose legacy continues to inspire and uplift.
Experience John Shippen's inspiring journey in this captivating documentary hosted by the renowned Don Cheadle. As the first African American golf professional to compete in the US Open, Shippen's legacy is a testament to resilience and groundbreaking achievement.
Through archival footage, interviews, and expert insights, Cheadle guides viewers through Shippen's remarkable life, from his early days at The Shady Rest Golf and Country Club to his trailblazing performances on PGA/USGA tours.
This documentary not only celebrates Shippen's historic golfing feats but also delves into his impact as a mentor to young African American golfers. Discover how Shippen's legacy continues to inspire and pave the way for diversity and inclusion in the world of golf.
Join us in honoring John Shippen's legacy and celebrating his enduring contributions to the sport.
John Shippen: A Trailblazer's Journey
Youth Golf Clinics: Empowering Minority Youth
The Foundation's commitment to diversity and youth empowerment is exemplified through its series of minority youth golf clinics. These clinics, spearheaded by noted professionals like Lee Elder and Renee Powell, offered invaluable opportunities for minority children to learn from certified PGA professionals at Scotch Hills Country Club. The John Shippen Youth Scramble, a highlight of these clinics, provided a platform for young talents to engage with the sport and fostered a spirit of inclusivity in golf.
Achievements & Accomplishments
John Shippen & The John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation
John Matthew Shippen, Jr. left an indelible mark on American history through his remarkable achievements and contributions to the world of golf. The John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation, founded by Thurman and Ruby Simmons, has been instrumental in preserving Shippen's legacy and honoring his pivotal role as a pioneering African American golfer.
Television Documentary "Images in Black & White"
One of the Foundation's remarkable endeavors was the production of the television documentary "Images in Black & White" for PBA, a captivating narrative crafted by Cowen Media for ESPN. This documentary was a powerful testament to Shippen's journey, shedding light on his challenges, triumphs, and unwavering spirit in a racially segregated era.
Commissioning of Oil Painting by Don Miller
Renowned artist Don Miller was commissioned by The John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation to create an oil painting of John Matthew Shippen. This masterpiece has been exhibited at prestigious venues like the USGA headquarters in Far Hills, NJ, showcasing Shippen's legacy in the golfing world.
Oil Painting of John Matthew Shippen by
Don Miller, Artist Commissioned by The John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation
The original oil painting, the original lithographs, and the pencil sketches are owned and copyrighted © by The John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation.
The Legacy of John Matthew Shippen: A Treasured Golf Club
The John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation received a remarkable donation, an antique golf club, from Robert Kuntz, expressing a deep desire to honor and preserve the rich heritage of golf. The club, crafted by John Shippen himself, holds immense historical significance in the sport's evolution.
Restoration of Shippen's Grave Site
A poignant initiative by the Foundation was the restoration and maintenance of John Shippen's gravesite in Rosedale Cemetery, Linden NJ. Appalled by the lack of recognition for Shippen's historic achievements, Thurman P. Simmons, Sr., Chairman of the Foundation, led efforts to replace Shippen's inconspicuous gravestone with a prominent granite headstone. This act of reverence ensured that Shippen's final resting place befittingly honored his legacy as "John Shippen 1879-1968. First American Born African American Golf Professional."
The Uphill Battle: JOHN MATTHEW SHIPPEN, JR. USPS Stamp Initiative
Foundation's Legacy
The JOHN SHIPPEN MEMORIAL GOLF FOUNDATION, founded in 1995 by Thurman and Ruby Simmons, has dedicated over 30 years to preserving John Shippen’s legacy and recognizing his pivotal role in American history.
The Need for Recognition
A U.S. Black Heritage Postal Stamp or Commemorative Stamp honoring John Matthew Shippen, would not only inspire students, educators, and the global golf community but also stand as a testament to Shippen’s enduring impact.
Facing Rejection
Despite multiple submissions over seven years, including a recent petition due to the challenges posed by COVID-19, the initiative has faced rejection from the Stamp Advisory Committee.
Your Support Matters
Now, in 2024, we urge you to support the John Matthew Shippen Heritage and/or Commemorative U.S. Postal Stamp initiative. Sign the petition here and spread the word to honor the legacy of the first African American and American golf professional.
PGA POSTHUMOUS AWARD-
A FORGOTTEN GOLF PIONEER:
From 1934 through November 1961, the Professional Golf Association (PGA) maintained a “Caucasian-only” membership clause in its bylaws. The clause was removed at the 1961 PGA Annual Meeting. In 2009, the PGA of America posthumously bestowed John Shippen with his PGA membership card. Thurman attended the PGA annual meeting in 2009 held in New Orleans, LA, along with Shippen’s grandson, Hanno Shippen (deceased). The PGA honored the John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation with the original PGA card awarded posthumously to John Shippen, along with the letter of authenticity, and is part of the Foundation’s owned artifacts. John Matthew Shippen, Jr. is now officially recognized by the USGA as America’s first golf professional and the first African American golf professional.
New Release
"1896: John Matthew Shippen, Jr." is a captivating journey chronicling the life and legacy of John Shippen, a trailblazing figure in golf history. Authored by Ruby Lee Simmons and Thurman Prentiss Simmons, Sr., this book delves into Shippen's remarkable journey from obscurity to recognition as the first African American and American to play in a USGA professional golf tournament. Beginning with Shippen's early talent recognition and association with the pioneering Shinnecock Golf and Country Club, Long Island, New York, the book delves into his achievements amidst societal prejudices.
It explores efforts to honor Shippen, uncover his heritage, and establish a foundation providing scholarships and youth golf programs. From organizing memorial tournaments to addressing historical inaccuracies, the book highlights Shippen's legacy, culminating in national recognition and opportunities for aspiring African American golfers.
Through meticulous research and personal dedication, Simmons and Simmons bring to light a pivotal figure in golf history, inspiring readers with Shippen's enduring impact and contributions to the sport. Through engaging chapters, readers discover the Simmons’ resilience, their efforts to honor his legacy, and the impact on future generations of golfers. The book celebrates a groundbreaking figure, offering a compelling blend of history, passion, and dedication in the world of golf.
Purchase on Amazon
John Shippen's Induction into the NJSGA Hall of Fame
The NJSGA Hall of Fame has been established to recognize and enshrine men and women who, as New Jersey natives or residents at their time of achievement, have impacted New Jersey golf or have made extraordinary contributions to the game through competitive and non-competitive accomplishments. John Shippen (1879 – 1968) - Inaugural Class of 2018 was inducted into the New Jersey State Golf Association (NJSGA) Hall of Fame.
Thurman and Ruby represented The John Shippen Memorial Golf Foundation were honored to represent John Shippen at the induction ceremony. For additional information and a look at NJSGA Hall of Fame 2018 Inaugural Class, click the links to visit the following websites.
Explore The Shippen Museum: Preserving Golf History
Discover The Shippen Museum, an integral part of the historic ShadyRest Country Club in Scotch Plains, NJ. Our exclusive museum offers a captivating glimpse into the legacy of John Shippen, housed within the club's old clubhouse.
The Shippen Museum - Unveiling Golf's Heritage
Experience The Shippen Museum's legacy through the "The Legacy of John Shippen" video tour, which is accessible here. Hosted by African American Golfer's Digest reporter Charles Jones, this tour delves into the rich history of Shady Rest Country Club, the first African American country club in the United States.
As you navigate the tour, join interviews with notable figures like Scotch Plains Mayor Al Smith, Thurman and Ruby Simmons of the John Shippen Foundation, and Chairperson Sylvia Hicks of the Preserve Shady Rest Committee. The museum's exhibits showcase priceless facts and intricate details of John Shippen's residency at the club.
Museum Closing: Due to security concerns, The Shippen Museum has been temporarily dismantled at the Shady Rest Country Club and is actively seeking a secure location. Stay tuned for updates on its reopening, and continue to support the preservation of golf history.