Nestled in the heart of Pinehurst, North Carolina, The National neighborhood stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage and ever-evolving charm. Blending a storied past with a vibrant present, The National is much more than a destination for golfers — it’s a place where history, architecture, and community intertwine in a uniquely Southern fashion.
Origins: A Vision Rooted in Pinehurst’s Heritage
The story of The National begins with the very foundations of Pinehurst itself. Founded in 1895 by Boston soda fountain magnate James Walker Tufts, Pinehurst was designed as a healthful resort community amidst the rolling Sandhills of central North Carolina. As the area flourished, golf became its defining feature, with celebrated courses and neighborhoods springing up around the game.
The National neighborhood takes its name from The National Golf Club, established in the 1980s during a period of significant growth in Pinehurst. The club was envisioned as a premier private golf destination, providing an exclusive alternative to the famed Pinehurst Resort. This ambitious project centered on Tom Fazio’s masterful golf course design, which would ultimately become one of the region’s crown jewels. As luxury homes, tree-lined streets, and retreats blossomed around the golf club, The National neighborhood was born—quickly earning a reputation for elegance, leisure, and distinct Pinehurst hospitality.
The Name: A Tribute to World-Class Golf
The National owes its moniker to its original centerpiece: the revered National Golf Club, known today as Pinehurst No. 9. This was the ninth course added to the Pinehurst portfolio and the first designed by Tom Fazio. The name “The National” signified ambition, prestige, and a commitment to world-class golf experiences—qualities the community continues to embody.
After decades of success, the club and its surrounding neighborhood underwent a new chapter in 2014 when Pinehurst Resort acquired The National Golf Club. This brought the course under the umbrella of the iconic Pinehurst name, and the course received designation as Pinehurst No. 9. Despite this evolution, the neighborhood’s original identity as “The National” remains rooted in local memory and pride.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1988: The National Golf Club opens, anchoring the neighborhood with a premier private course designed by Tom Fazio. Early residents are drawn by exclusivity and the promise of an unparalleled golf lifestyle.
- 1990s: Residential growth surges, with custom homes rising along National Drive, Turnberry Wood, and St. Mellions Drive. “The National” becomes synonymous with upscale country club living.
- 2014: Pinehurst Resort acquires The National Golf Club. The course is rebranded as Pinehurst No. 9, creating stronger ties to the village’s storied golf legacy.
- Present Day: The neighborhood flourishes as a blend of new and established residents, unified by a shared appreciation for preservation, recreation, and Pinehurst’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Notable Landmarks and Institutions
No tour of The National is complete without mentioning its most celebrated feature: Pinehurst No. 9. This championship golf course winds gracefully through the neighborhood, its fairways framed by loblolly pines, lakes, and native landscaping. Not only does the course attract golfers from around the world, but its rolling terrain gives many homes splendid golf course views.
- National Drive: The main artery of the community, National Drive is lined with stately residences, each reflecting unique architectural tastes—ranging from classic Southern styles to contemporary estate homes.
- St. Mellions Drive, Baltusrol Lane, and Turnberry Wood: These streets pay homage to iconic golf venues worldwide and offer scenic strolls, with sidewalks shaded by mature trees and manicured landscaping.
- Clubhouse: The elegant club facility stands as a gathering point for residents—offering not just golf, but tennis, swimming, fitness, and social events. The clubhouse’s verandas offer panoramic views of the course, making it a cherished spot for sunset toasts and neighborly conversation.
- Parks and Green Spaces: While The National is best known for its golf, its green spaces host walkers, joggers, and wildlife alike. Native azaleas and dogwoods bloom each spring, creating picture-perfect moments at every turn.
Evolution Over the Decades
From its beginning as an exclusive golf enclave, The National has grown into a welcoming, multi-generational neighborhood. The 1990s and early 2000s saw a building boom, as families and retirees alike sought the tranquility, security, and recreation that the community promised. The close-knit nature of The National is reinforced by its homeowners’ association, which actively supports neighborhood beautification, festivals, and charitable events.
Integration with the broader Pinehurst Resort family in 2014 only strengthened these bonds, opening up wider amenities and reinforcing the sense of belonging that’s so vital to Pinehurst’s identity. Today, The National embodies a delicate balance: offering the privacy and prestige of club living, while fostering a warm “front porch” spirit where neighbors greet one another by name.
What Makes The National Special?
Ask any longtime resident, and you’ll hear stories about what makes The National stand apart. It’s the laughter of grandchildren chasing fireflies on balmy evenings, the traditions of annual golf outings, and the sense of stepping into a community that remembers its roots while embracing newcomers. Whether you’re sipping lemonade with a neighbor on National Drive, paddling across the community’s shimmering ponds, or finding quiet reflection along the course’s scenic cart paths, there’s a quiet magic to life here.
For those who cherish history, The National is a living tribute to Pinehurst’s enduring love affair with golf—yet it’s equally dedicated to cultivating a sense of home.
A Neighborhood with a Promising Future
With its active community associations, ongoing preservation initiatives, and commitment to both tradition and progress, The National remains one of Pinehurst’s most sought-after addresses. New families continue to discover the neighborhood, drawn by its peaceful setting, storied heritage, and the promise of a welcoming, connected way of life.
As Pinehurst continues to grow and garner international acclaim, The National stands proudly as a reflection of everything the Sandhills region does best—offering a place where history is honored, neighbors are friends, and the simple joys of Southern living are celebrated every day.