If you’re considering buying Rancho Mirage real estate or properties in close proximity, then you’ll want to check out the renowned Thunderbird Country Club. Founded in 1951, Thunderbird was the first country club in the Coachella Valley and therefore became a model for the many that have since followed.
The rich history of the Thunderbird Country Club lends substantial mystique to local Palm Springs homes for sale and other desert city real estate. Famed golf course architect, Lawrence Hughes, along with Johnny Dawson, designed the 18-hole, par 72 course with stunning vistas and picturesque, sprawling greens. Three thousand trees were brought in to provide lush greenery while architect, William F. Cody, transformed the buildings and clubhouse. In addition, interior decorator Velma Dawson created the Indian style feel of the clubhouse, complete with handcrafted, king-sized Kachina dolls. The Hollywood golf community flocked to Thunderbird, with celebrities including Bob Hope and Bing Crosby purchasing lots edging the golf course, and many others, such as Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball, Hoagy Carmichael, baseball great Ralph Kiner and tennis star Nancy Chaffee became charter homeowners.
On its member roster, The Thunderbird Country Club boasted greats like Dean Martin, Phil Harris, Perry Como, Gordon Mac Rae and mogul Leonard Firestone, as well as presidents, important politicians, major manufacturers and other noteworthy individuals. Thunderbird provided the ideal respite from a busy, hectic life—and still does to this day.
Many seek Rancho Mirage real estate to nurture their love of golf, which is at the heart and soul of this club. Thunderbird’s majestic golf course, coupled with its 48,000 square foot Clubhouse and 6,600 square foot, state-of-the-art Fitness Center, Men’s Grille and Ladies’ Card Room, provides the perfect desert sanctuary for golfers.
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