The story of the South Cowichan Lawn Tennis Club (SCLTC) began with the arrival of British settlers to the relatively untamed Cowichan Valley. On May 9th, 1887, two tennis courts were established on the shores of Cowichan Bay, at the farm of Augustus Pimbury. This marked the birth of one of the oldest lawn tennis clubs in the world, and the oldest club in Canada still playing on grass.
As SCLTC celebrates its 138th season, our Heritage Site (designated in 1992) continues to offer a stunning, pastoral setting that few clubs can match, with panoramic views of Mount Tzouhalem, Salt Spring Island, eagles soaring above, farmland, and the waters of Cowichan Bay.
The club’s rich history reflects its resilience through challenging times, two world wars, a depression, floods, droughts, declining membership, and rising costs. Throughout it all, this cherished club has been maintained and operated by volunteers. From the early days of afternoon tennis and social teas, the SCLTC has welcomed players of all skill levels, from local enthusiasts to top competitive players from across North America and beyond. In 1946, American tennis star Emery Neale, the No. 1-ranked senior player in the United States, expressed his admiration for the club: “We discovered it just after the war—it’s soft, it’s beautiful, it’s traditional. And the hospitality at Cowichan is second to none.”
There is a unique beauty in playing on grass, and it remains a rare privilege. Maintaining the club’s seven grass courts is an ongoing, labor-intensive, and costly endeavor. Our grass court season lasts around 20 weeks, during which time the courts require constant care: fertilizing, watering, cutting, rolling, weeding, aerating, top dressing, and line marking. In the early years, the courts were smoothed using a massive roller, originally pulled by horses outfitted with large leather boots to minimize hoof prints. Later, the roller was moved by six to eight players. As it was then, so it remains today: a lot of work.
In the early days, the clubhouse was described as «primitive» by many—no showers, water from a well, no toilets, and just an outhouse. Tea was served from pots heated on a wood stove.
By 1956, the club’s membership had dwindled to just 18 members, and the once-pristine grass courts had become overrun with daisies, while the fences and clubhouse were in disrepair. However, through the dedicated efforts of a few, the SCLTC was revitalized. A crucial part of the revival was the formation of an International Division, led by American players such as Emery Neale and Sam Lee from Oregon. Through connections with the Pacific Northwest Tennis Association, many players were encouraged to participate in Cowichan’s tournaments.
The SCLTC celebrated its centennial in 1987, and despite its humble beginnings and the hardships endured, the club continues to thrive today. Our clubhouse is comfortable and welcoming, our grass courts and gardens are meticulously maintained, and our camaraderie is strengthened by our club motto, “Semper Paratus Obligari” (Always Prepared to Serve).
The SCLTC’s International Tennis Tournament has attracted top players from around the world for generations, and this coming August, we are excited to host an ITF 200 event.
In its 138th season, SCLTC continues to exude a unique charm, blending tradition, community, social gatherings, and competitive play. We are proud to join other esteemed clubs in the CTC and warmly invite all to visit and enjoy a game of lawn tennis along with a warm Cowichan welcome.
