Groundbreaking has begun on a new golf course in South Carolina inspired by a design created by legendary architect Alister MacKenzie that was never built. MacKenzie, known for his work on iconic courses such as Augusta National and Cypress Point, sketched plans for a course called El Boquerón in 1930 for a wealthy family in Argentina. However, the course was never constructed due to economic issues during the Great Depression. Despite the plans being lost for many years, they have recently resurfaced, and the course, now known as The Mackenzie Course, is finally being brought to life at 21 Club, a private club in South Carolina.
The Mackenzie Course is not meant to be an exact replica of the original El Boquerón design, but rather an interpretation that stays true to MacKenzie’s vision while adapting to its new Sandhill location. The course will offer different yardage options, allowing players to experience it at its original Golden Age length or a more modern distance. The project is being overseen by a committee of MacKenzie experts, including architect Brian Zager, who worked with Tom Doak on The Lido, another historic course resurrection project.
Scheduled for completion in 2026, The Mackenzie Course will be the first of two 18-hole designs at 21 Club, with the second course called The Hammer specifically designed for match play by Rob Collins and Thad King of King Collins Golf. This development is part of a surge in private golf projects in the southeast, including properties like The Tree Farm and Old Barnwell, indicating a trend of upscale golf destinations in the region. In addition to the new courses, 21 Club will also offer a performance center, member-owned cabins, and a short course for families.
As the construction of The Mackenzie Course progresses, the club aims to honor Alister MacKenzie’s original vision while adapting it to the unique characteristics of the Sandhill site. By combining MacKenzie’s rediscovered plans with his writings and archival material, the course will pay homage to the architect’s innovative concepts and design principles. The careful attention to detail and commitment to preserving MacKenzie’s legacy are evident in the club’s approach to this project, ensuring that The Mackenzie Course will be a fitting tribute to one of golf’s most influential figures.
With a focus on offering a premium golf experience for its members, 21 Club is investing in top-tier amenities and facilities to complement the new courses. The addition of a performance center and upscale cabins will enhance the overall membership benefits, while the family-friendly short course will cater to a variety of golfers. By creating a diverse range of offerings, the club aims to appeal to a broad audience of golf enthusiasts and provide a high-quality experience for players of all skill levels.
The collaboration between renowned architects, Alister MacKenzie experts, and a dedicated committee at 21 Club demonstrates a commitment to excellence in golf course design and development. By bringing MacKenzie’s long-lost El Boquerón plans to fruition in South Carolina, the club is not only adding a unique and historically significant course to its portfolio but also contributing to the preservation of golf history. As The Mackenzie Course takes shape, it will serve as a reminder of MacKenzie’s enduring influence on the game and provide a one-of-a-kind golfing experience for members and visitors alike.
