In 1954 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower began his friendship and association with Thunderbird Country Club it was just the beginning of Thunderbird’s friendship with 7 American Presidents - three choosing to become members.
President Eisenhower Golfing at Thunderbird Country Club
President Eisenhower became a Thunderbird Member in 1961. The world’s most famous amateur golfer of the day, President Eisenhower was often seen playing 18-holes with fellow Thunderbird Members and on two occasions brought his Vice President Richard Nixon. He was also responsible for President Lyndon Johnson visiting Thunderbird and playing the course on a number of occasions.
President Eisenhower signed golf shot to Johnny Dawson
In 1963, President John F. Kennedy visited Thunderbird as part of his visit to the Coachella Valley.
President John F. Kennedy Thunderbird Country Club Visit
In 1975, Gerald Ford built a house on the 13th hole, joined the Club and became “one of the guys.” It was not unusual to see President Ford playing in the Saturday choose ups, practicing on the range or dining at the Club with his wife, Betty.
Gerald R. Ford Ribbon Cutting
Socially the Club has hosted Past President H.W. Bush amongst his many friends.
Barack Obama has challenged the course with by all accounts
“a very respectable game.”
