What Is 1956 US Women's Open

Overview

The 1956 U.S. Women's Open was a pivotal moment in women's golf history, marking the emergence of Kathy Whitworth as a dominant force. Held at Forest Lake Country Club in Bloomington, Minnesota, the tournament attracted top female golfers competing for one of the most prestigious titles in the sport.

Whitworth, then 21 years old, claimed her first U.S. Women's Open title with a score of 307 (+11) over 72 holes. Her victory set the foundation for a legendary career that would include seven major championships and 88 LPGA Tour wins, the most by any player in tour history.

• Kathy Whitworth won the tournament at age 21, becoming one of the youngest champions in the event’s history at the time.
• The event was hosted at Forest Lake Country Club in Bloomington, Minnesota, a course known for its challenging layout.
• Whitworth finished with a total score of 307 (+11), reflecting difficult playing conditions and firm greens.
• The tournament spanned from June 28 to July 1, 1956, with all four rounds played consecutively.
• This win marked Whitworth’s first major professional title, launching her record-breaking career on the LPGA Tour.

Championship Format & Structure

The 1956 U.S. Women's Open followed the standard format for U.S. Open events: 72 holes of stroke play with a cut after 36 holes. The structure emphasized consistency, precision, and endurance under pressure across four grueling rounds.

• 72-Hole Stroke Play: The tournament consisted of four 18-hole rounds, with the lowest cumulative score determining the winner. This format tested both skill and stamina.
• 36-Hole Cut: After the second round, the field was reduced to the top 40 players and ties, ensuring only the most competitive advanced.
• Course Par: Forest Lake Country Club played to a par of 72, typical for championship-level courses of the era.
• Weather Conditions: Players faced variable weather, including wind and scattered rain, contributing to higher-than-average scoring.
• Amateur Participation: Several top amateurs competed, though none finished in the top 10, highlighting the growing professionalism of the LPGA.
• Prize Fund: The total purse was $12,000, with Whitworth earning $1,800 as champion—modest by today’s standards but significant in the 1950s.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 1956 U.S. Women's Open to modern editions reveals significant evolution in scoring, competition, and prize structure.

The data shows a dramatic shift in professionalism and financial investment in women’s golf. While Whitworth’s +11 winning score reflects tougher conditions and less advanced equipment, modern champions like Saso post double-digit under-par totals due to improved training, technology, and course management. The prize money increase—from $1,800 to $1.8 million—illustrates the growing recognition and commercialization of women’s sports.

Why It Matters

The 1956 U.S. Women's Open holds lasting significance in the history of golf, not only for launching Kathy Whitworth’s legendary career but also for symbolizing the growth of women’s professional sports during a transformative era. It highlighted the skill and determination of female athletes at a time when opportunities were limited.

• Historic Breakthrough: Whitworth’s win marked the beginning of her record-setting career, which would redefine excellence in women’s golf.
• Gender Equity Milestone: The tournament showcased the potential for women’s sports to attract national attention and media coverage.
• Amateur to Professional Shift: The 1956 Open reflected a growing trend of top players turning professional, increasing competition quality.
• Equipment Evolution: Compared to modern clubs and balls, 1956 players used persimmon woods and balata balls, making high scores more common.
• Regional Impact: Hosting in Minnesota expanded the geographic reach of the LPGA beyond traditional East Coast strongholds.
• Legacy Influence: Whitworth’s success inspired future generations, including legends like Annika Sörenstam and Inbee Park.

Today, the 1956 U.S. Women's Open is remembered as a foundational moment in the journey toward greater visibility and equity in women’s golf. Its legacy lives on in the records, tournaments, and athletes it helped inspire.