While playing golf on the Little River course last week, Danny Hervilla, a member of the family who owns the golf course and Little River Inn, took us for a walk back in time. Local golfers will remember Doug Howe, who now lives in Ukiah and used to be the golf course greens keeper as well as a good golfer. However, many of us never knew his father, who was also named Doug. Danny informed us that Doug Howe Sr. was a very good golfer who, back in the early days, leased the golf course from the Inn. In those days, the course was called the Little River Country Club Golf Course. Danny said Doug's game was so good he could easily have been a professional tour player. Growing up on the course, Danny remembers Doug Sr. teeing up and hitting four balls on the fifth hole. “Two of them landed on the green and two on the fringe. He was good.” Danny also remembered Doug Sr. shooting a 59 for eighteen holes. A 59 would be a course record.
Larry Miller is an Assistant Professor and journalist based in Fort Bragg, California. He specializes in writing about local communities, small towns, and golf. Larry's articles provide insights into the charm and unique aspects of different regions, while also highlighting personal stories and local events.