What Is 1947 US Women's Open

Overview

The 1947 U.S. Women's Open marked the second official edition of the championship, solidifying its place in women's golf history. Hosted at the Spokane Country Club in Spokane, Washington, it attracted top female golfers competing for prestige and a growing prize purse.

Victory went to Louise Suggs, who emerged as a dominant force in women's golf by winning with a 72-hole total of 307 (+11). Her six-stroke margin of victory over Betty Jameson highlighted her skill under pressure on a challenging course layout.

• Louise Suggs claimed her first U.S. Women's Open title, launching a Hall of Fame career that would include 11 major championships.
• The tournament was played from June 26 to June 28, 1947, spanning four rounds at the par-72 Spokane Country Club course.
• Suggs shot rounds of 74, 78, 77, and 78 for a total of 307 (+11), reflecting difficult playing conditions.
• Runner-up Betty Jameson finished with 313, while Babe Zaharias placed third with 314, showcasing elite competition.
• The event was organized by the United States Golf Association (USGA), which has governed the Open since its inception in 1946.

Championship Details

The 1947 U.S. Women's Open featured a competitive field and rigorous course setup, typical of USGA standards. Players faced windy conditions and firm greens, contributing to higher-than-par scoring across the leaderboard.

• Course Layout: The Spokane Country Club course measured approximately 6,200 yards, demanding accuracy off the tee and precise iron play.
• Field Size: Around 30 professional and amateur women golfers competed, including several founding members of the LPGA.
• Prize Money: The winner received $5,000, a significant sum at the time and a boost for women’s professional golf.
• Weather Impact: Persistent winds from the Rocky Mountains affected ball flight and contributed to high scores throughout the tournament.
• Historical Context: This event occurred just one year after the LPGA was founded in 1946, helping legitimize women's golf.
• Amateur Participation: Several top amateurs competed, though the top spots were claimed by professionals like Suggs and Jameson.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 1947 U.S. Women's Open to later editions reveals dramatic evolution in scoring, participation, and prize structure.

The contrast between 1947 and modern Opens underscores the growth of women's golf. While early tournaments had limited fields and modest rewards, today’s events feature global participation, advanced analytics, and major media coverage.

Why It Matters

The 1947 U.S. Women's Open played a crucial role in establishing women's professional golf as a legitimate and competitive sport. It provided a platform for pioneers like Suggs and Zaharias to showcase their talents and inspire future generations.

• Historical Legacy: This tournament helped lay the foundation for the LPGA Tour's long-term success and visibility.
• Role Model Impact: Louise Suggs became a trailblazer, later serving as LPGA president and golf ambassador.
• Media Attention: National coverage in newspapers and newsreels increased public awareness of women athletes.
• Competitive Benchmark: The event set early standards for course setup and scoring in women's majors.
• Gender Equality: It challenged societal norms by proving women could compete at a high level in professional sports.
• Evolution of Sport: The 1947 Open is now seen as a milestone in the professionalization of women's golf.

Today, the U.S. Women's Open is one of the most prestigious events in golf, but its roots trace back to pioneering moments like the 1947 championship in Spokane.