History of Arnold Palmer in Timeline

Arnold Palmer, nicknamed "The King," was a highly successful and charismatic American professional golfer. Turning pro in 1955, he achieved numerous victories on the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions. He is considered a trailblazer and one of the greatest golfers ever, as well as the first superstar of golf's television age. His popularity significantly contributed to the sport's growth and mainstream appeal during the 1950s and beyond.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education

1924: Longview Flying Field Origin

In 1924, the airport that would eventually be renamed after Arnold Palmer began as the Longview Flying Field.

1928: Airport Renamed J.D. Hill Airport

In 1928, the Longview Flying Field was renamed J.D. Hill Airport.

1935: Airport Renamed Latrobe Airport

In 1935, the J.D. Hill Airport was renamed Latrobe Airport.

1939: Palmer Watches First Airmail Pickup

In 1939, Arnold Palmer watched the world's first official airmail pickup at the airport, near where he grew up.

1963: Canada Cup Shortened

In 1963, the Canada Cup was shortened to 63 holes due to fog.

1975: Palmer's bag from 1975 Ryder Cup

Arnold Palmer's bag from the 1975 Ryder Cup was placed on the first tee as a tribute at the Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club.

1978: Airport Renamed Westmoreland County Airport

In 1978, the Latrobe Airport was renamed Westmoreland County Airport.

1989: Photo in Smoking Cessation Ad

In 1989, Arnold Palmer was featured in a photo by Robert Straus for smoking cessation products, which later became the subject of copyright litigation.

1999: Airport Renamed in Palmer's Honor

In 1999, on Arnold Palmer's 70th birthday, Westmoreland County Airport in Latrobe was renamed Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in his honor.

2007: Statue Unveiled at Airport

In 2007, a statue of Arnold Palmer, made by Zenos Frudakis, was unveiled in front of the entrance to Arnold Palmer Regional Airport.

January 31, 2011: Anticipated Final Flight

On January 31, 2011, Arnold Palmer thought he would pilot a plane for the last time, flying from Palm Springs to Orlando, as his pilot's medical certificate was set to expire.

May 2011: New Medical Certificate Issued

In May 2011, Arnold Palmer was issued a new third-class medical certificate, according to public FAA records.

2016: Palmer's Disgust Towards Donald Trump

Around the time of his death in 2016, during Donald Trump's presidential campaign, Arnold Palmer expressed disgust and made unflattering comments about Trump, according to his daughter.

January 1, 2017: Golden Palm Star Dedicated

On January 1, 2017, Arnold Palmer was honored with a Golden Palm Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.

September 2018: Daughter's Interview on Palmer's Political Views

In September 2018, Palmer's daughter, Peggy, stated in an interview with The Sporting News that her father was a Goldwater Republican and had friendships with Dwight D. Eisenhower and Donald Trump.