Photo: Bloomfield Township Police
The clubhouse at theOakland Hills Country Club, a popular and longtime standing staple in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, was destroyed in a fire Thursday.
“While searching for the source of the smoke crews found heavy fire inside the walls and between floors of the building. Fire crews attempted offensive fire operations but were forced from the building due to rapidly changing conditions and defensive operations were established,” they added.
The BHFD added that there were no injuries reported in the fire.
“Fire crews attempted offensive fire operations but were forced from the building due to rapidly changing conditions and defensive operations were established,” said Bloomfield Township Fire Chief, John LeRoy per the news release.
Some of the historic club’s priceless memorabilia and artwork were saved from the flames.
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The club, which opened in 1916, has hosted many significant events over the years, include three PGA championships, six U.S. Opens and the 2004 Ryder Cup, according toTheDetroit News.
Retired professional golfer Jack Nicklaus, who claimed victory at Oakland Hills during the 1991 U.S. Senior Open, said in a statement that it “will be difficult to replace the many memories lost today.”
“Oakland Hills is one of those iconic golf clubs in America,” Nicklaus told the outlet. “I was fortunate in recent years to visit Oakland Hills several times, and each opportunity to return to that clubhouse reminded me of their storied history and legacy. It is a sad day for the membership, but also for the countless people, like me, who respect and appreciate Oakland Hills.”
The affluent Bloomfield Hills community and club received widespread support after the fire.
“We always say that if you live, work, worship, or school within Bloomfield then you are a part of our community. Oakland Hills and their employees are a staple in our community, and have been since 1916,” the Bloomfield Township Police Departmentwrotein a statement. “Well wishes to so many of the workers at OHCC that call the club home.
source: people.com
