Today is National Miniature Golf Day! Did you know that miniature golf has been around since the 1800s? During that time, people considered it highly inappropriate for a woman to raise a golf club above her shoulder level. In 1867, the Ladies’ Putting Club of St. Andrews, Scotland built a small scaled-down golf course so that women could play the sport without creating a scandal. It was the first miniature golf course in history.

Miniature golf courses began popping up in America during the early 20th century. However, these facilities were usually located at hotels and private resorts, so they were not yet available to the masses. In 1916, James Barbar of North Carolina built "Thistle Dhu," the first quintessential miniature golf course. The design of the course was neo-classical, similar to the style of the Tuileries Garden at the Louvre in Paris. By the 1930s, miniature golf had become a popular pastime all across the country.

To celebrate National Miniature Golf Day, enjoy a round or two of mini golf with some friends!