This Day in Golf History: February 22

A notorious murder took place on this date in 1831, and a famous golf course got its name from the murder victim. Dutchman Baltus Roll, 61, was murdered on his farm, in his farmhouse on Watchung Mountain, in the area of Springfield, New Jersey. Roll was murdered at night by two would-be robbers who thought he had gold coins in the house--which he did not. Over time, Roll's name remained in local lore, and was adjusted when Baltusrol Golf Club came into existence on Baltus Roll's farmland. Of a less alarming event, on this date in 1960, Arnold Palmer’s breakout year as major star, he finished tied for fifth at the Tucson Open after shooting rounds of 65-74-69-68—276, good for $872.86.