The Legend Of The Golden Horseshoe

The Legend of the Golden Horseshoe recalls the origins of Virginia history. In 1716, colonial Governor Alexander Spotswood led a daring expedition to explore the far reaches of the Virginia colony. Spotswood, aware of the frontier's economic potential and bent on encouraging westward settlement, organized a party of 63 men for the arduous journey.

In his book, "The Present State of Virginia," published in 1724, Hugh Jones offered his account in 1724 of the toll taken by the rocky soil of the Piedmont and the Blue Ridge:

"For this expedition they were obliged to provide a great Quantity of Horse-Shoes (Things seldom used in the lower Parts of the Country, where there are few Stones). The Governor, upon their Return, presented each of his Companions with a Golden Horse-Shoe, some of which I have seen studded with valuable Stones resembling the Heads of Nails."

Although several people in the 19th century claimed to have seen them, none of the small, golden horseshoes described by Jones has ever been found.

Colonial Williamsburg’s Golden Horseshoe Golf Courses epitomizes the tradition and mystique of Spotswood’s expedition: the challenge of daring adventure, the enjoyment of a peaceful and spectacular environment, and the reward of completing an arduous test.

GOLDEN HORSESHOE GOLF CLUB HOLE BY HOLE
6,157 yards, par 36-36—72