Where History Meets Hospitality – Reading Country Club
Rooted in History. Reimagined for Today.
Welcome to Reading Country Club, a treasured landmark in Exeter Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania.
For over a century, Reading Country Club has been more than just a golf course — it’s been a cornerstone of community, sport, and legacy.
Where It All Began
Chartered in 1922 and opened in 1923, Reading Country Club took shape as golf was still gaining popularity in Berks County. Designed by Alexander H. Findlay, often hailed as “The Father of American Golf,” the course was crafted with respect for the land and a keen architectural eye. Findlay’s use of mounds and bunkers, his artful integration of greens into the natural landscape, and his commitment to visibility and flow made Reading Country Club a standout — and one of the few of his courses that has stayed largely true to the original design.
From the beginning, the club was intended to be more than a place for golf. Original plans envisioned tennis courts, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and even a riding academy — all reflecting the founders’ dream of creating a full-family leisure destination.
Historic Clubhouse with a Storied Past
Reading Country Club’s original stone building (the Bishop House) dates back to 1761 and once included a French and Indian War-era fort. After a fire destroyed the early clubhouse wing in 1930, a new Tudor Revival-style clubhouse was completed in 1931, designed by Reading architect and club champion Harry Maurer. The new clubhouse offered grand dining halls, a ballroom, and a sun parlor — amenities still admired today.
Legends of the Game
Few clubs can claim a more prestigious list of guests. From Walter Hagen to Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, and Byron Nelson, the course has hosted golf royalty. Nelson served as head pro from 1937 to 1939 and famously won the 1937 Masters and 1939 U.S. Open while representing RCC. His time here — well documented in club lore and his own writings — helped cement Reading Country Club’s national reputation.
Local legend Betsy King, Reading native and LPGA Hall of Famer, remains an active and beloved member. She was the first to be taught golf by long-time Golf Pro Henry Clay Poe, who served from 1940 to 1966 and went on to become President of the PGA of America. The club continues to honor Betsy with our dining room dedicated in her name and a showcase of some of her personal memorabilia.
Preservation and Progress
The club’s journey wasn’t without challenges. In 1944, following the Great Depression and WWII, a group of local businessmen purchased Reading Country Club to save it from bankruptcy. Then, in 2006, Exeter Township preserved Reading Country Club for future generations by purchasing it through eminent domain to stop planned development.
In 2018, both the clubhouse and course were added to the National Register of Historic Places, confirming Reading Country Club’s significance not just locally but nationally. Of more than 90,000 registered properties, fewer than 100 are golf courses — placing Reading Country Club in truly elite company.
A New Era Begins
Following extensive renovations in 2024 led by the Gulati family, RCC is again on the rise. With Jack Gulati at the helm and sons Chuck, David, and Mike as partners, the club is being transformed into Berks County’s premier wedding and event venue, while honoring its historic charm with additional renovations and upgrades on the horizon, we aim to continue to elevate Reading Country Club with modern amenities, new features for the public and even more exciting things in the coming years.
Highlights include:
Jack’s on the Green: A scratch kitchen offering carefully curated dishes by Chef Stefan Sabo, aiming to redefine dining in the region.
The 1923 Room: An elegant event space ideal for small gatherings of up to 50 guests and special occasions.
Fairway Lounge: A vibrant space with golf simulators, foosball, pool, and lounge seating — the perfect spot for socializing.
Grand Ballroom & Garden: Ideal for weddings, large social gatherings, fundraisers, and special events for up to 400 guests.
Restored Golf Course & Pro Shop: Enhancements led by Golf Pro Dave Milore, ensuring the course remains challenging and pristine.
Our Legacy Continues
Reading Country Club remains a beloved destination for golfers of all skill levels and a gathering place for the community. It’s a living tribute to timeless design, legendary champions, and local pride.
We invite you to join us in celebrating over 100 years of tradition — and the exciting future ahead.