It isn’t often that a gift is helicoptered into place, but that is exactly how Robert Trent Jones Jr.’s gift of a totem pole in 1996 was placed in its home on the award winning course at Eagle Point Golf Club. It landed between holes two and three where it proudly welcomes guests to their awaiting adventure on the course that Golf Magazine described as one of “The Top 10 Public Courses of 1996”, and Golf Digest has ranked it one of the top-15 “Best Places to Play” in the state of Oregon.
The courses celebrated totem pole located in Southern Oregon, just minutes off 1-5 was carved by George Gulli, Sr., and gifted to Jones by Dennis Washington, after Jones designed a nine-hole course for him in British Columbia. When Washington saw Jones admiring a totem pole of his, he said he’d repay Jones with one, and much to the delight of all visitors, that gift came to rest between holes two and three for all to enjoy.
Totem poles are not only unique works of art they are cultural icons telling a rich story using many carved elements that showcase history, memorials, family, land, culture, and more, while representing the surrounding land and region. Located within a short walk of The Resort at Eagle Point and the Talon Grill, this stunning work of artistry and craftsmanship lure all who view it into the lore of the elements carved and presented within its tall presence.
The courses Pacific Northwest totem pole showcases five elements, listed in order from top to bottom; eagle, wolf, raven, beaver, salmon. While meanings will vary between Native Peoples, the artist’s website lists four of the elements as stated below, while the beaver element was defined by google investigation:
Eagle – Intelligent and resourceful. He rules the sky and is able to transform himself into a human.
Wolf – Very powerful totem who can help people that are sick or in need.
Raven – The mercurial trickster of Northwest Coast Native lore. Curious and mischievous, often misbehaving but never boring.
Beaver – Known for its ingenuity and steadfast persistence in its work, centered in teamwork as it makes work easier. Focused on close family relationships they encourage each other in the sense of hard work.
Salmon – The salmon symbolizes instinct, persistence, and determination.
The serene backdrop of the Eagle Golf Clubs totem pole is a destination worthy of your time. Once onsite you may choose to enjoy the delicious fare at The Talon Grill showcasing locally harvested foods and fine, family friendly dining with full bar offerings. Or, choose the lighter menu at the Osprey Nest located next to the driving range. Be sure to book a tee time on the 18-hole course where you may capture your group with a distinctive photo at the totem pole. Treat yourself to a stay at The Resort at Eagle Point, and embrace relaxation where your adventure begins with our friendly staff as the perfect home base for mountain hikes, scenic drives and the world renowned Crater Lake National Park. Come today, and deepen your journey when you stop in to read the story carved within our totem pole.
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