The Country Club of Orlando was chartered in November 1911. At this time, the City of Orlando was eager to attract northern tourists, and the Club – which had already opened a nine-hole golf course, was seen as a tremendous asset to the city in this regard. The first clubhouse, a typical “old Florida” building with wide verandahs, was opened in May of 1912. The clubhouse quickly became a social center, not only for golf, but also for dances, card parties, and community entertainment of all kinds. In 1935, the Club’s corporate structure was reorganized, and the name was changed to The Country Club of Orlando, which has remained to the present day. During World War II, the Club experienced many difficulties – a drop in membership, along with shortages of labor, food and supplies – and only superb leadership by Club President, Holman R. Cloud, along with many donations from members, kept the Club afloat. In January 1956, a new, contemporary-style facility, costing some $400,000 was opened. The Orlando Sentinel termed the building “a dream come true for club members.” Major golf course renovations took place in 1960, 1976 and 1990, the last of which was planned to preserve and enhance the features of the original Donald Ross design. The new clubhouse debuted in May of 2000 with a Gala Opening Ball.