On Wednesday, March 1, the 60th anniversary celebration commemorating Pete Brown’s victory in the 1964 Waco Turner Open at Falconhead Resort in Burneyville was gloriously held. Brown’s victory marked the first by an African American on the PGA Tour, a significant milestone considering the tour’s history of racial exclusion until just two years prior due to the PGA of America’s Caucasian Only clause in its charter.
The ceremony featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, including representatives from the PGA of America and the USGA. Margaret Brown, Pete’s widow, shared poignant reminiscences, while Jim Dent, a fellow PGA Tour competitor who faced similar racial challenges, also spoke.
Journalist Peter May, author of “How Charlie Sifford and Stanley Mosk Integrated the PGA,” offered insights, alongside Jay Upchurch, the last journalist to interview Brown, who recounted the historic victory’s decisive moments. Additionally, Ramona Harriet, another author well-acquainted with Brown, shared stories from her new book, “A Missing Link in History, The journey of African Americans in Golf.”
The program, meticulously crafted to honor Brown, impressed attendees, as did the museum inside the pro shop, which chronicles Brown’s legacy and the history of Falconhead Resort, including the LPGA Tour and PGA Tour events hosted since its establishment in 1958 by Waco and Opie Turner.
Club historian Barbara Sessions received praise for her role in conceptualizing the museum, organizing the ceremony, and attracting illustrious guests. The pride in the course’s unique history was palpable among Sessions and other club members encountered during the visit.
Despite recent heavy rains partially submerging the front nine in the valley, the back nine showcased stunning rolling terrain, offering a glimpse into the venue where top players once competed fiercely in both golf and evening entertainment, orchestrated by the eccentric Turner duo.
Located just 12 miles west off Interstate 35 at the Marietta exit in southern Oklahoma, Falconhead Resort beckons visitors to explore its museum, enjoy a round of golf, and meet Barbara Sessions, a notable figure in Oklahoma golf. The forthcoming issue of Golf Oklahoma promises further insights into Brown’s story and why his victory hasn’t led to greater representation of African Americans on the PGA Tour today.
