Senate Resolution No. 1756
BY: Senator GRIFFO
COMMEMORATING the 80th Anniversary of Twin Ponds
Golf & Country Club
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those enduring institutions which contribute significantly to
the economic vitality, cultural richness, and social fabric of their
communities; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 80th Anniversary of Twin Ponds Golf & Country Club, to
be celebrated on Monday, April 27, 2026; and
WHEREAS, Located in the Village of New York Mills in Oneida County,
Twin Ponds Golf & Country Club stands on land once known as the Campbell
Estate, a property whose history traces back to the early industrial
development of the Mohawk Valley; and
WHEREAS, Samuel Campbell, born in Scotland on February 14, 1809,
came to New York Mills at the invitation of Benjamin Walcott Sr., where
he began work in the local mills as a spinner and eventually rose
through the ranks to become superintendent of all the mills; and
WHEREAS, In 1843, Samuel Campbell, together with William D. Walcott,
purchased the Oneida Manufacturing Society, and through his leadership
and business success he amassed an extensive estate which included the
land that today forms the grounds of Twin Ponds Golf & Country Club; and
WHEREAS, The golf course at this location originated more than a
century ago as a nine-hole course and evolved through several names
before being incorporated by another family in 1942; and
WHEREAS, In 1946, Sam and Jim Girmonde acquired the Campbell
property, marking the beginning of the Girmonde family's stewardship
which continues to this day; and
WHEREAS, Although the original Campbell homestead had been destroyed
by fire, Sam Girmonde restored and repurposed the remaining barn and
carriage house into what became the Twin Ponds facility, preserving
elements of the original structure that remain visible to visitors
today; and
WHEREAS, Over the decades, the Girmonde family expanded the golf
course from nine holes to a full public 18-hole course while developing
an elegant yet welcoming banquet facility that serves the broader
community; and
WHEREAS, Twin Ponds Golf & Country Club has remained under
continuous family ownership for four generations, with Joe Girmonde, his
son David, and now David's son joining in the operation and continued
growth of the business; and
WHEREAS, In 2010, significant renovations enhanced the banquet
facility with updated decor, carpets, ceilings, dance floor,
entranceways, and fountains, ensuring that the venue continues to offer
a refined and welcoming environment for guests; and
WHEREAS, The beautifully maintained grounds feature carefully
manicured fairways and gardens filled with a wide variety of annual and
perennial flowers, providing a picturesque setting that has hosted
countless wedding ceremonies, community celebrations, and memorable
gatherings; and
WHEREAS, For decades, Twin Ponds Golf & Country Club has served as a
valued gathering place for residents throughout the Mohawk Valley,
hosting golf tournaments, weddings, corporate events, and charitable
outings that benefit organizations such as Believe 271, iCAN, CABVI, and
the Rescue Mission of Utica; and
WHEREAS, The club's continued success was reflected in 2025 when it
was named a finalist for Business of the Year by the Greater Utica
Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating the strong reputation it has built
within the regional business community; and
WHEREAS, In addition to its longstanding traditions, Twin Ponds has
embraced innovation by expanding indoor golf opportunities through
modern simulator technology, allowing the facility to host winter
leagues and year-round events for members and guests; and
WHEREAS, Through eight decades of dedication to hospitality,
recreation, and community engagement, the Girmonde family has preserved
and strengthened a beloved local institution that continues to enrich
the lives of residents and visitors alike; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 80th Anniversary of Twin Ponds Golf & Country Club,
honoring the Girmonde family and all those whose vision, dedication, and
service have sustained this treasured community landmark; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Twin Ponds Golf & Country Club.
