[1] Erin Hills was built by Wisconsin developer Bob Lang, who used his own money to fund the course.

Designers included Dr. Michael John Hurdzan and his business partner Dana Fry, and Ron Whitten.

Lang's ultimate goal of bringing the U.S. Open forced him to sell the course, due to financial difficulties.

Unlike most modern courses, Erin Hills was not outfitted with paved cart paths.

About four miles (6.5 km) to the east on higher ground is the landmark Holy Hill shrine, visible from the course.