A golfer, Powell had a difficult time finding places to play because he was Black, and virtually all American country clubs and courses were “restricted” — a more friendly word than “discriminatory.”
The grandson of slaves, Powell served in the Army in World War II, and achieved the rank of Technical Sergeant. Once back in civilian life, he decided to build his own golf course — but was denied G.I. and bank loans. So other Black men — two doctors and his brother — loaned him money, which he used to buy a 78-acre dairy farm. Powell worked as a janitor and security guard, and on his off hours he went back to work clearing the farmland to build his course, with his wife Marcella doing most of the landscaping work.
In 1948, after two years of work, the Clearview Golf Club in East Canton, Ohio, opened with nine holes; the back nine opened in 1978. It was the first golf course in the country designed, constructed, and owned by an African American. And not only were Blacks allowed in: he also welcomed women and youths — including his daughter, Renee, who competed in the LPGA for 13 years. “Golf is a part of society and I wanted to be included,” Powell said. “I want you to be included, too.”
In August, Powell received the Professional Golfer’s Association’s Distinguished Service Award. “He made golf a beacon for people of all colors,” said PGA of America president Jim Remy. “Bill made us appreciate the game and each other that much more by his gentle yet firm example.” Powell died December 31 after a stroke. He was 93.