History & Press

HISTORY OF CLEVELAND HEIGHTS Sensing an opportunity to promote their city, the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce invited H. A. Stahl, a Cleveland, OH real estate magnate, to visit the city in late 1923 for the purpose of “studying the possibility of developing a large subdivision in the area.”

Stahl purchased 560 acres on the south side of Lake Hollingsworth for $935,000.00. Before the end of the year he had several of his development staff from Cleveland to oversee the construction of the development, which is known as “Cleveland Heights” named after Stahl’s home city.

To provide recreational opportunities for the residents of Cleveland Heights, Stahl included plans for a golf course. The golf course and the clubhouse, the latter built on the shore of Lake Hollingsworth, opened in the spring of 1925. By 1927, due to the depression, financial difficulties struck and Stahl lost his investment.

The city took over both properties for delinquent taxes by the end of the decade. The City of Lakeland continues to own and operate Cleveland Heights. The city further added nine holes to the original eighteen-hole layout in the early 1980’s. The original clubhouse became home to the Lakeland Yacht and country Club in 1935.

TODAY AT CLEVELAND HEIGHTS Home to the annual 4-Ball Golf Tournament and the Major League Scramble, Cleveland Heights has over 120 members. Cleveland Heights is truly a unique golf experience. The clubhouse, renovated in 2001, boasts over 20,000 square feet and offers an extensive breakfast, lunch and evening lounge menus.

This 27-hole facility, a Division of the Parks and Recreation Department for the City of Lakeland, offers golfers of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy the sport.