Club History

1971

In 1971, 30 acres were purchased (now encompassing portions of holes #11 & #12);

1976

in 1976 an additional 80 acres were purchased (holes #13, #14, & #15).

1978

By 1978, a total of 270 acres had been obtained and initial consideration was given to a housing development, with a golf course as an amenity.

1979 - 1982

From 1979 to early 1982, utility infrastructure was installed for residential lots on the front nine and, other than leaving what was considered “decent” open space, little thought was given to the golf course.

1982

Although some of the original partners played golf, none were versed in golf course design, nor had they heard of any of the premier architects. All that changed in 1982, when, after viewing the property, Pete Dye agreed to become the course designer. Even though 180 acres had been dedicated to the golf course, Pete decided another 35 was needed.

After some difficulty, the additional property was purchased which now encompasses #16 green, #17 and the “lake portion” of #18. In retrospect, it is obvious that Pete’s judgment was accurate. The finishing holes at Firethorn have great character and Pete’s instincts again proved to be right. In the end, the golf course covers 205 acres with the balance of 100 acres being allocated to high-end single family residential property.

1983

As a result of discussions that lasted throughout the construction period, it was decided that Firethorn would be a “prairie-type” golf course, with emphasis on natural contours, native rough vegetation, and shot accuracy. Construction began in the fall of 1983 and concentrated on holes where natural contours were not present: #2, #3, #8 and #10, for all others, only minor modification was necessary.

1985

 Approximately 250,000 cubic yards of earth was moved during the rough grading process and work was generally completed by the fall of 1985. The fairways were seeded with Penlinks bent grass while the greens have a Pencross mixture.

1986

The official opening of the golf course occurred in the spring of 1986, and the clubhouse opened the following year.

1998 – 2000

Firethorn added a third nine-hole layout – known as the West 9. While this layout added additional opportunities for the Club’s members to improve their game, the membership never viewed it as being on par with the original Championship 18.

2007

Facing infrastructure challenges, Firethorn approached the City about annexation. Negotiations were finalized and Firethorn officially became a part of Lincoln. 

2009

In order to expand the driving range and practice facilities, #10 tee box is relocated.  In conjunction with the re-design of hole #10, the club’s maintenance facilities are relocated.  

2010

Replacement of the Championship Courses irrigation begins. 

2012

The Club added the Golf Performance Center. This indoor/outdoor hitting facility allows members to keep their game in tune over the winter months. Additionally, the Club’s teaching professional offices out of this facility. 

2015

Construction begins on The Resort which included a complete redesign of the West 9 course. The Club’s third nine was converted into a Short Course which contains nine par 3 holes.  

2016

The Resort opens. This facility includes the largest private pool in Lincoln, an upscale family friendly restaurant, tennis courts and a complete fitness center. 

2019

Work is completed on continuous concrete cart paths for the Championship 18.  Installation of a state-of-the-art irrigation system is completed. 

2020

Work begins on the addition of an expanded men’s card room, a new fire pit, more patio space and a remodel of the women’s locker room.