Every golf course has a beginning, and for River Oaks, that beginning was celebrated on July 13, 1991.

35 years ago today, River Oaks Municipal Golf Course held its Grand Opening, hosted by the Cottage Grove Economic Development Authority and City Council. The invitation welcomed guests to an opening ceremony followed by a shotgun tournament, marking the official start of what would become a cornerstone of recreation and community in Cottage Grove.

At the time, River Oaks looked much different than it does today. The facility consisted of a modest clubhouse that served as the check-in point for golfers and offered simple refreshments such as hot dogs, soda, and beer. The course operated with just 33 golf carts and a small staff dedicated to creating a memorable experience for every guest who visited.

Leading the operation in those early years was Golf Professional and General Manager Bruce Anderson, whose vision helped shape the culture of River Oaks from the very beginning. Alongside Superintendent Ben Ratzlaff, the team worked tirelessly to establish a course that would challenge golfers while providing a welcoming atmosphere for players of all skill levels.

The golf course itself was known for being far less forgiving than it is today. Mature trees lined many of the fairways, creating narrow playing corridors where an errant shot often meant a lost golf ball. For many longtime golfers, navigating those tree-lined holes became part of the River Oaks experience.

As the course gained popularity, Bruce Anderson introduced golf leagues, creating opportunities for golfers to compete, socialize, and build friendships. Those early leagues laid the foundation for a tradition that continues today, bringing players together week after week throughout the season.

The course's development was also supported by members of the local business community. One notable contribution came from 3M, whose support helped make the construction of the back nine holes possible. Their involvement reflects the strong community partnerships that have been part of River Oaks since its earliest days.

While the original clubhouse was designed primarily to support daily golf operations, River Oaks continued to evolve over the years. In the early 2000s, the addition of the Event Center and Eagles Bar & Grill transformed River Oaks from a traditional municipal golf course into a versatile facility, also offering a place for weddings, banquets, dining, and community events. What began as a municipal golf course with a small clubhouse and a fleet of 33 carts eventually grew into the facility guests know today - a destination for golf, tournaments, weddings, celebrations, corporate events, dining, and community gatherings.

Yet despite all the changes, the mission remains much the same as it was in 1991: providing a welcoming place where people can gather, enjoy the game of golf, and create lasting memories.

As River Oaks celebrates its 35th season, it's special to look back at pieces of history like this grand opening invitation.

What began with a simple clubhouse, 33 carts, and a vision for a municipal golf course has become a destination known not only for golf, but also for hospitality, events, and community connections.

The original invitation may be small, but it represents the beginning of countless memories made across the fairways, clubhouse, patio, and event center over the past three and a half decades.

To everyone who has played a round, attended an event, celebrated a milestone, or simply enjoyed a meal overlooking the course - thank you for being part of the River Oaks story.

Here’s to the years to come!