It was the 1950s, and the Broadview Golf Course entered its third decade of operation. In 1954, the course celebrated its 25th anniversary. Joseph Maggi expressed his optimism for the future of golf. The course had been a fixture for many who lived in the immediate area and was easily accessible. The short course measured 3,070 yards, small enough to be played evenings during the summer months. The course was frequented by many in the military who were stationed at Westover Air Force Base.
In October 1954, it was rumored that Joseph Maggi would be retiring. There was some movement to induce the City of Holyoke to purchase the course and operate it as a municipal facility. By December 1954, Mr. Maggi officially announced his retirement. He intended to let the course go to seed and return to a natural state.
The principal reason for opting for retirement was the long hours required to operate a golf course. Joseph Maggi initially planned to retire in 1951, but he was encouraged by the many regular golfers to keep the course operating. Over 1,000 regulars were playing the course.
Joseph Maggi was a longtime advocate of Holyoke building its own 18-hole course, and at one time suggested the City Farm land, which would be adjacent to major roadways. Many of the golfers who played at Broadview Golf Course resided in Chicopee and Westfield.
He received an offer from an out-of-state business to purchase the course and convert it into an amusement center. He planned to continue operating the clubhouse as a restaurant.
Citations:
Newspapers.com (paid subscription): Citations: Holyoke (Massachusetts) Transcript & Transcript-Telegram; Springfield (Massachusetts) Republican; publication dates and pages are shown.
Ancestry.com (paid subscription): Price & Lee Holyoke, Massachusetts, City Directories
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