NYC Celebrates the Founding of the PGA

A long-running success story, The PGA of America grew from a meeting on April 10, 1916, in the Radisson Martinique's diminutive boardroom where 78 professionals were elected to membership and formed the springboard into the world's largest working sports organization with 27,000 men and women professionals.

The PGA of America needed a catalyst at its founding, and the support came through department store magnate and philanthropist, Rodman Wanamaker.

"Mr. Wanamaker was a visionary," said PGA Past President Roger Warren of Kiawah Island, S.C. "He, too, was willing to support those who had dreams. By encouraging them, he helped them financially. And so we owe a lot to the fact that Rodman Wanamaker saw something in these golf professionals in their dream and their vision, and said, 'I want to help and support you.' "

on August, 31st, 2011, the PGA Gallery at the Radisson Martinique officially opened in grand style with a ribbon cutting ceremony led by Susan Anselona and members of the PGA. To celebrate the event, Mayor Michael Bloomberg proclaimed August 31st PGA Day in New York City. The Radisson Martinique was presented with a Proclamation that will be displayed in the new PGA Gallery at the Martinique.