Biography

Wayne B. Stiles, a founding member of ASGCA, had no formal training in landscape architecture, yet he emerged as one of the most renowned golf course architects of his time. Initially working as a draftsman and junior partner for landscape designer Franklin Brett at 18, Stiles opened his landscape design firm in Boston in 1915. Sugsequently, he branched out into golf course design the following year.

In 1924, Stiles formed a golf course design partnership with John Van Kleek, focusing primarily on golf courses and related subdivisions. During this period, they associated with various notable figures including professional golfer Walter Hagen and esteemed course designer W. Bruce Matthews.

Unfortunately, the partnership didn't survive the economic pressures of the Depression, but Stiles continued exclusively in golf course architecture. Over his career, he played a significant role in establishing a broad foundation of golf courses throughout the east coast. He was one of the 14 founding members of ASGCA in 1947 and was part of the organisation for six years.