FOMGC: The DNA of Meadowbrook
Friends Of Meadowbrook Golf Club
FOMGC: The DNA of Meadowbrook
Foresight • Ownership • Mobilization • Grit • Courage
Foresight
They saw what was needed.
Ownership
They built it themselves.
Mobilization
They brought people together.
Grit
They persevered through obstacles.
Courage
They acted despite barriers.
Meaning
FOMGC represents the Foresight, Ownership, Mobilization, Grit, and Courage of the Meadowbrook founders whose vision created opportunities, built community, and established a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Plaque Version
FOMGC
Foresight • Ownership • Mobilization • Grit • Courage
These principles embody the founders of Meadowbrook Golf Club. Through vision, determination, community action, perseverance, and courage, they created opportunities where few existed, built a lasting institution, and established a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
Preservation Campaign Tagline
Honoring the Foresight, Ownership, Mobilization, Grit, and Courage that built Meadowbrook.
Website Mission Statement
The Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Club (FOMGC) is dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Meadowbrook by embracing the same values demonstrated by its founders: Foresight, Ownership, Mobilization, Grit, and Courage. These principles transformed a vision into a community landmark and continue to guide our efforts to protect this historic place for generations to come.
Meadowbrook's Road to Historical Preservation and the Role of Sybil Argintar
Meadowbrook's Road to Historical Preservation
In early 2009, a determined effort began to secure formal recognition for Meadowbrook Country Club as one of North Carolina's most significant African American recreational and cultural landmarks. Through collaboration among Meadowbrook leaders, Saint Augustine's College, and preservation consultant Sybil Argintar, a comprehensive nomination was prepared for the National Register of Historic Places. The effort documented Meadowbrook's significance in recreation, entrepreneurship, and African American social history.
The journey included passing the State Study List review, conducting extensive historical research, gathering property documentation, responding to State comments, and preparing a final nomination package. By August 2009 the nomination had been completed and scheduled for review, leading toward public celebrations of the designation and laying the groundwork for preserving Meadowbrook's legacy for future generations.
The process also revealed the need for a permanent organization dedicated to preserving documents, photographs, oral histories, and community memories, helping inspire the vision of a Meadowbrook Historical Society.
Sybil Argintar: The Historian Who Preserved the Story
Sybil Argintar served as the driving force behind the preservation effort. More than a consultant, she acted as historian, researcher, advocate, project manager, and interpreter of Meadowbrook's significance. Following the successful Study List review in February 2009, she undertook extensive archival research, property documentation, and coordination with State preservation officials.
Her research placed Meadowbrook within the broader history of African American recreation in North Carolina and demonstrated that the club was a rare and exceptional achievement. She collected evidence, sought contextual information, refined historical narratives, and worked closely with Meadowbrook stakeholders to ensure accuracy.
Throughout the nomination process, Sybil provided updates, answered questions, reassured supporters about progress, and championed Meadowbrook's statewide significance. Her completed nomination package became the authoritative historical record of the property and provided the foundation for future preservation, education, and community engagement efforts.
By helping secure historic recognition and preserving the stories of Meadowbrook's founders and supporters, Sybil created a lasting legacy that continues to support the vision for a Meadowbrook Historical Society.
Impact Report: The Importance of FOMGC Receiving the Candid Gold Seal of Transparency
Impact Report: The Importance of FOMGC Receiving the Candid Gold Seal of Transparency**
Executive Summary**
Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Club (FOMGC) has earned the **Candid Gold Seal of Transparency**, a nationally recognized credential awarded to nonprofits that demonstrate exceptional openness, accountability, and integrity. This distinction places FOMGC among the top tier of U.S. nonprofits committed to transparent operations and responsible stewardship of donor support.
The Gold Seal is more than a badge — it is a powerful trust signal that strengthens donor confidence, expands funding opportunities, and elevates FOMGC’s reputation across the philanthropic community.
1. Strengthening Donor Trust**
The Gold Seal verifies that FOMGC publicly shares:
- Organizational mission and history
- Leadership and governance information
- Financial details and program impact
- Strategic priorities and community outcomes
This level of transparency reassures donors that:
- Their contributions are used responsibly
- The organization is stable and well‑managed
- FOMGC is committed to ethical nonprofit practices
In today’s philanthropic landscape, donors increasingly rely on third‑party validation before giving. The Gold Seal provides exactly that.
2. Increased Visibility and Credibility**
Candid is one of the most widely used nonprofit databases in the world. Earning the Gold Seal:
- Boosts FOMGC’s visibility to foundations, corporations, and individual donors
- Signals that FOMGC meets high standards of nonprofit governance
- Places FOMGC in a respected category of organizations recognized for excellence
This recognition enhances FOMGC’s standing as a trusted steward of Black golf history and cultural preservation.
3. Expanded Grant Opportunities**
Many grantmakers use Candid profiles during their due‑diligence process. A Gold Seal:
- Strengthens FOMGC’s competitiveness in grant applications
- Demonstrates readiness for funding partnerships
- Shows that FOMGC maintains accurate, up‑to‑date organizational data
For funders focused on diversity, inclusion, and historical preservation, the Gold Seal is a strong indicator that FOMGC is a reliable investment.
4. Reinforcing FOMGC’s Mission and Impact**
The Gold Seal validates the work FOMGC is doing to:
- Preserve the legacy of Meadowbrook Country Club
- Protect and share Black golf history
- Engage the community through education and storytelling
- Maintain a nonprofit structure rooted in accountability
It confirms that FOMGC’s mission is not only meaningful — it is supported by strong organizational practices.
5. A Powerful Message to the Community**
Receiving the Gold Seal communicates to members, supporters, and partners that:
- FOMGC is committed to transparency
- FOMGC values responsible leadership
- FOMGC is growing, strengthening, and preparing for long‑term sustainability
This recognition can be used in:
- Fundraising campaigns
- Sponsorship proposals
- Grant applications
- Public communications
- Website and social media messaging
It is a milestone worth celebrating and promoting.
Conclusion
The Candid Gold Seal of Transparency is a significant achievement for Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Club. It affirms the organization’s credibility, strengthens donor confidence, and opens doors to new funding opportunities. Most importantly, it reinforces FOMGC’s commitment to preserving a vital piece of African American golf history with integrity, professionalism, and community pride.
Daryl Batey, son of Meadowbrook’s original founding members, M. Grant Batey, Sr. writes to express enthusiastic and unequivocal support FOMGC.
FRIENDS OF MEADOWBROOK GOLF COURSE
FOMGC
Garner, North Carolina
April 29, 2026
Mayor and Members of the Town Council
Town of Garner
900 7th Avenue
Garner, North Carolina 27529
Letter of Support — Proposal for the Restoration of the Historic Meadowbrook Clubhouse
Dear Mayor and Members of the Garner Town Council,
As the son of one of Meadowbrook’s original founding members, M. Grant Batey, Sr., I am writing to express my enthusiastic and unequivocal support for the proposal submitted by the Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Club (FOMGC) to restore and revitalize the Historic Meadowbrook Clubhouse in Garner, North Carolina. I believe this initiative represents a meaningful and forward-looking investment in our community’s heritage, economic vitality, and long‑term future.
The Meadowbrook Clubhouse stands as one of Garner's most distinctive mid-century architectural landmarks. Its iconic A-frame design, vaulted wood ceilings, and historic character represent a piece of our community's story that is irreplaceable. Unfortunately, like many historic structures, it has experienced the effects of deferred maintenance and is in need of thoughtful and intentional restoration to bring it back to its full potential.
The FOMGC's vision for the Meadowbrook Clubhouse as a Historic Museum and Event Center is both ambitious and achievable. Their proposal would restore this landmark while transforming it into a sustainable, revenue-generating asset that serves residents, visitors, and the broader Raleigh-Garner community for generations to come. The planned upgrades — including modern lighting, climate control, and updated furnishings — would be accomplished while fully preserving the structure's historical integrity.
I am particularly supportive of this proposal because of the broad and lasting benefits it would deliver to Garner:
o Preservation of a Landmark: The restoration would ensure that a treasured piece of Garner's architectural and cultural history is protected for future generations.
o Economic Development: The facility is projected to host over 115 events annually, generating meaningful local economic activity and supporting Garner's growing event and tourism sector.
o Job Creation: The operation of the center would create employment opportunities for event staff, maintenance personnel, and local vendors.
o Community Access: Affordable and accessible space for community organizations, nonprofits, cultural programs, and civic gatherings would be made available, strengthening the social fabric of our town.
o Community Pride: Restoring this landmark sends a powerful message about Garner's commitment to honoring its past while investing in its future.
I have confidence in the leadership and dedication of the Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Course. Their commitment to this project reflects a genuine and deep care for our community. I believe they have the vision, the organizational capacity, and the community support needed to see this initiative through to success.
I respectfully urge the Town of Garner to give this proposal your full and favorable consideration. The restoration of the Meadowbrook Clubhouse is not merely a building project — it is an investment in the identity, vitality, and long-term prosperity of our community. I am proud to lend my support to this effort and look forward to seeing the Meadowbrook Clubhouse restored to its rightful place as a cornerstone of Garner's civic and cultural life.
Thank you for your time, your service to our community, and your thoughtful consideration of this important proposal.
Respectfully,
Daryl Batey, PGA Member
Retired PGA of America
4611 Bryson Cove, SW
Lilburn, GA 30047
770.378.5992
ddbatey@aol.com
This letter is submitted in support of the Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Course (FOMGC) proposal to the Town of Garner for the Restoration of the Historic Meadowbrook Clubhouse.
Meadowbrook Park Master Plan - Town of Garner NC - Adopted May 2021
MASTER PLAN SUMMARY
Garner’s Meadowbrook Park has a story deeply rooted in history. Dating back
to the late 1950’s, Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club was established as
one of the first primarily African American country clubs within the State
of North Carolina. Due to the decline of the sport’s popularity and financial
hardships, the club has changed hands several times. The Town of Garner
purchased the property to expand the Parks and Recreation Department
services with active recreation parkland.
With this master plan’s proposed and preserved elements, the stories
shared by the former golf members and the history of the site will be
memorialized while maintaining and cherishing the sense of community
by including amenities desirable by the modern-day community. The goal
is to not only preserve the history but also to bring it in current context of
community needs and create a stimulating and meaningful experience.
News Update: FOMGC Website Expansion Highlights Historic Meadowbrook and Black Golfing Legacy
News Update: FOMGC Website Expansion Highlights Historic Meadowbrook and Black Golfing Legacy
June 27, 2026 — Raleigh, NC
The Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Club (FOMGC) has announced a major milestone in its digital preservation and storytelling efforts, unveiling a significantly expanded website now featuring nearly 1,200 curated items** including documents, articles, photographs, videos, and news stories.
The large-scale update, led by website administrator Andre Tiller, is part of an ongoing mission to preserve and share the rich history of Historic Meadowbrook Golf Course and its vital role in the story of Black golfing in America.
A Digital Archive of Culture and Community
The newly enhanced FOMGC website serves as a living archive, offering visitors an immersive look into decades of golfing history. The collection brings together:
* Rare historical documents detailing Meadowbrook’s origins and evolution
* Archival and contemporary photographs capturing generations of golfers
* Video interviews and storytelling features from community members and historians
* Curated news stories and articles highlighting key moments and milestones
This content provides both historical context and personal narratives, illustrating how Meadowbrook has stood as more than just a golf course—it has been a cultural and social hub.
Preserving the Legacy of Black Golfing
Founded during a time when segregation limited access to golf courses, Meadowbrook became a cornerstone for African American golfers. The website’s expanded content shines a light on the perseverance, excellence, and community-building that shaped the sport within Black communities.
“Every photo, every story, every document adds depth to a legacy that deserves to be seen and remembered,” said Tiller. “This update ensures that the voices and achievements connected to Meadowbrook are accessible to future generations.”
A Resource for Education and Inspiration
The FOMGC website is designed not only for golf enthusiasts, but also for educators, students, historians, and anyone interested in African American history and sports heritage. By weaving together multimedia storytelling, the platform makes history more engaging and widely accessible.
Highlights of the update include:
* Expanded timelines of Meadowbrook’s development
* Features on notable Black golfers who played or were influenced by the course
* Community-driven contributions that provide firsthand perspectives
Looking Ahead
The organization plans to continue adding new materials, encouraging community members to contribute their own stories, photos, and memorabilia. This collaborative approach will ensure the archive continues to grow and reflect the living history of Meadowbrook.
For more information and to explore the full collection, visitors are encouraged to access the FOMGC website and experience the legacy of Historic Meadowbrook firsthand.
About FOMGC:
The Friends of Meadowbrook Golf Club is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the historic significance of Meadowbrook Golf Course and its impact on the legacy of Black golf.
Architect of Historic Meadowbrook Golf Course - Gene Hamm
Architect of Historic Meadowbrook Golf Course in Garner, North Carolina
Eugene Perry Hamm Jr.
Eugene Perry Hamm Jr. was an American professional golfer and prolific golf course architect whose career spanned from the 1940s through the 1980s. A PGA member from 1954, he played in the 1958 PGA Championship and 1960 U.S. Open, winning the 1966 North Carolina Open. Best known for designing over 60 courses across the Carolinas, Virginia, and beyond, Hamm’s layouts—many in Myrtle Beach—are praised for blending challenge with natural terrain.
Born: 1923 (Henderson, North Carolina)
Died: Dec 10, 2016
Eugene Perry Hamm Jr. (1923 – December 10, 2016) was an American professional golfer and golf course designer.
Hamm grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina and started his golf career as a caddy at the Raleigh Golf Association. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1943. Following World War II, he was employed at several golf clubs in the 1940s and early 1950s. These included New Bern Country Club in New Bern, North Carolina, in Pinehurst, North Carolina and in Mt. Airy, North Carolina. In 1954, he became a member of the PGA of America. Hamm qualified for the 1958 PGA Championship and 1960 U.S. Open. He won the 1966 North Carolina Open.[1][2]
Hamm is best known as a golf course designer of courses in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and New York. After designing his first 9-hole course in 1949, he designed and oversaw the building of over 60 courses. In 1955, Hamm helped build the Duke University Golf Course in Durham, North Carolina, with Robert Trent Jones. He moved to Delaware to continue work with Jones, and then in 1959 moved back to Raleigh where he began his own design career. Many of his notable courses are located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.[1][3][4]
Hamm died in 2016 at the age of 93.[5]
Professional wins
this list may be incomplete
• 1966 North Carolina Open
• 1977 Carolinas PGA Senior Open
• 1978 Carolinas PGA Senior Open
Golf course designs
• 1954: Roanoke Country Club, Williamston, North Carolina[6]
• 1958: Cedars Country Club, Chatham, Virginia https://golf-info-guide.com/courses/virginia/chatham/cedars-country-club.html
• 1959: Lynrock Golf Club, Eden, North Carolina
• 1966: Meadowbrook Country Club, Garner, North Carolina; listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.[7]
• 1967, 1972: North Ridge Country Club, Raleigh, North Carolina
• 1971: Pineland Country Club, Mullins, South Carolina
• 1985: Lochmere Golf Club, Cary, North Carolina
• 1989: Beacon Ridge, Seven Lakes, North Carolina
FOMGC Attends Juneteenth Celebration at GPAC
FOMGC Attends Juneteenth Celebration at GPAC
FOMGC Attends Juneteenth Celebration at GPAC
June 20, 2026
Members of FOMGC joined the community in celebrating Juneteenth at the Garner Performing Arts Center (GPAC) on June 20, 2026. The event drew a strong turnout, including local residents, town officials, council members, and Mayor Buddy Gupton.
Mayor Pro Tem Demian Dellinger welcomed attendees and opened the celebration, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere for all. The program featured a vibrant mix of live music, storytelling, and cultural history, highlighting the significance of Juneteenth and its enduring impact. Community members expressed their appreciation, sharing that the event continues to improve each year, with many noting that this year’s celebration was especially meaningful and well done.
FOMGC proudly supported the event through both sponsorship and engagement. The organization contributed $200 toward the creation of the event brochure and, in return, received a featured write-up highlighting its mission and work.
In addition, FOMGC hosted an information space near the auditorium entrance, where attendees were welcomed to learn more about the organization. The space featured live website video monitors playing continuous jazz music, along with visual displays showcasing the Historic Meadowbrook charter members and clubhouse. The setup created an inviting and engaging environment that drew steady interest from guests throughout the event.
FOMGC members also sold Juneteenth T-shirts featuring the organization’s logo, which proved to be a big hit among attendees. Notably, this marked the first opportunity for members to use mobile phone payment systems for purchases, making transactions quick and convenient. The success of the T-shirt sales highlighted both strong community support and the effectiveness of the new payment approach.
To further connect with guests, members distributed business cards and complimentary golf ball markers featuring the FOMGC logo and a QR code for easy access to information. Throughout the event, FOMGC representatives engaged with attendees, sharing details about the organization and its future plans for Historic Meadowbrook.
Overall, the Juneteenth celebration at GPAC was a vibrant and memorable event that brought the community together to honor history, culture, and unity. FOMGC’s active participation and support added to the success of the celebration while strengthening connections within the community.
Phase 1A Complete at Meadowbrook Park
The Town of Garner has completed Phase 1A of the Meadowbrook Park project. The dam has been safely breached, the pond drained, and a stone-lined channel constructed. The site enters a mandatory wetland drying period through September 2025. Phase 1B design resumes October 2025.
