Our Story... the beginning
Gene and Joby Kaufman along with Gene's parents, Burlin and Jo, and many uncles, started building the golf course in 1959 from the 40 acre farm. Etna Acres opened on July 4, 1960 with 65 golfers and hot dogs cooked in a popcorn popper. An additional 30 acres was added in 1967. On July 4, 2020 Etna Acres celebrated its 60th birthday!
The next phases....
The South (back) nine was opened in 1993. Both nines are uniquely designed and challenge golfers of all abilities. The North nine is a "traditional" style with mature trees and creeks. The south nine is a "links" style with rolling mounds and nature areas.
In 2017, grandson, Devin Dale, started his journey to follow Gene's footsteps, and officially became a PGA Member in October 2020.
In 2019, Gene and Joby discussed the makeover for #9 green. (Joby rolled this green by herself back in1959.) Gene sketched out a design and he discussed this thoughts with Brian Ranck and Devin. In 2023 the earth moved and the transformation began. Enjoy the pictures below. Devin and Brian did wonderful job of making Gene's sketch come to life. The green "opened" 2024.
Our Club House
Golf Shop
Soft Goods
Golf Shop
Our well stocked golf shop offers equipment for both the seasoned golfer and the beginner. If we do not have what you are looking for in stock, we can special order for your needs.
Clubs
Soft Goods
Golf Shop
Our staff takes pride in helping you select a new or used set that fits you and your swing. Our shop is filled with a nice variety, featuring PING, Callaway, Cleveland, and Tour Edge. We are a certified PING fitter.
Soft Goods
Soft Goods
We stock apparel for men and women: shirts, jackets, hats and gloves.
Our Daphne's Headcovers are fun!
We carry New Balance shoes, logo towels, and a wide selection of golf balls.
Dining Area
The usual golf snacks are available.
We are known for having a pretty good cheeseburger...enough said (for those of you who remember Joby's oath).
Gatherings
We have hosted birthday, anniversary parties and bowling banquets. We offer a simple banquet menu of: cole slaw, baked beans, toasted buns, fried chicken and ham. Many of our outings use our dining room to feed their golfers.
Club Fitting/Repair/ regripping
Devin Dale PGA , is a PING fitter and will help you select clubs that fit you and your budget. Are you thinking of regripping your clubs or you have a loose head? Come see us for your club repair. We have a selection of grips you can choose from.
Awards
In 2021, Gene Kaufman was honored to be the Indiana Section of The Professional Golfers' Association of America recipient of the Deacon Palmer Award. This award: "In recognition of outstanding character, and leadership by assisting and inspiring others both inside and outside the game of golf".
In 2019, Gene Kaufman received his 50 year PGA Member award. An award he is humbled by.
Since 2016, along with the Jerry Crow family and friends, we have been recognized as a Top Performer by the Folds of Honor. We have been recognized every year since. As of 2021, Jerry and friends have raised over $40,000 . Pretty Awesome!
In 2009, Gene was awarded the Junior Golf Leader Award for the Indiana Section of the PGA. He is very proud of this award and loved to talk with kids of all ages (yes, adults, too) about their golf game.
In 2001, Etna Acres was listed as one of the Top 100 Courses for women. Gene and Joby always tried to make women feel welcome and have merchandise available for them. We strive to continue this atmosphere.