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 won numerous PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions events. Palmer is considered one of golf's greatest players and is recognized as the sport's first TV-era superstar, popularizing golf through his talent and personality.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education

1924: Longview Flying Field Established

In 1924, the airport that would later be named after Arnold Palmer was originally established as the Longview Flying Field. This marked the beginning of the airport's history, predating Palmer's birth and later association with the site.

1928: Airport Renamed J.D. Hill Airport

In 1928, Longview Flying Field was renamed J.D. Hill Airport. This marked a change in the airport's identity during its early years.

1935: Airport Renamed Latrobe Airport

In 1935, J.D. Hill Airport was renamed Latrobe Airport. This change reflected the airport's growing integration with the Latrobe community.

1939: Palmer Witnesses First Airmail Pickup

In 1939, a young Arnold Palmer watched the world's first official airmail pickup at the airport near his home. This event sparked his early interest in aviation.

1948: First visit to Orlando

In 1948, Arnold Palmer first visited Orlando during a college match. This visit marked the beginning of his association with the city, which later contributed to Orlando becoming a prominent recreation destination.

1958: Became a Freemason

In 1958, Arnold Palmer became a member of the Freemasons. During this time, he was building his professional golf career and increasing his influence in various circles.

1975: Palmer's Bag from 1975 Ryder Cup Placed on First Tee

At the Ryder Cup, Arnold Palmer's bag from the 1975 Ryder Cup was placed on the first tee as a tribute. Palmer had won more than 22 Ryder Cup matches and had also captained Team USA to two victories.

1978: Airport Renamed Westmoreland County Airport

In 1978, Latrobe Airport was renamed Westmoreland County Airport. This change reflected the airport's expanding regional role and administration.

1989: Photo Used in Copyright Litigation

In 1989, a photo of Palmer endorsing smoking cessation products by Robert Straus became subject to copyright litigation. This event highlighted Palmer's evolving stance on smoking and his involvement in public health advocacy.

1999: Airport Renamed in Palmer's Honor

In 1999, on Palmer's 70th birthday, Westmoreland County Airport in Latrobe was renamed Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in his honor. This renaming was a tribute to Palmer's achievements and his connection to the Latrobe community.

2007: Statue Unveiled at Airport

In 2007, a statue of Arnold Palmer, created by Zenos Frudakis, was unveiled in front of the entrance of the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport. The statue depicts Palmer holding a golf club, symbolizing his legacy and connection to the region.

2008: First American Ryder Cup triumph since 2008

Two days after a 17–11 victory, which marked the first American Ryder Cup triumph since 2008 at Valhalla and which Love dedicated to Palmer, the majority of the team attended the memorial service for Palmer at St. Vincent College in Latrobe.

January 31, 2011: Palmer's Last Flight

On January 31, 2011, Arnold Palmer piloted a plane for the last time, flying his Cessna Citation X from Palm Springs, California, to Orlando. This event marked the end of his active flying career.

2016: Palmer's Disgust Towards Trump

Around the time of Palmer's death in 2016, during Donald Trump's presidential campaign, Palmer reportedly showed disgust towards Trump and made unflattering comments about him. This reflects a shift in Palmer's opinion of Trump, despite their previous acquaintance and Trump's support for golf tournaments.

January 1, 2017: Golden Palm Star Dedicated

On January 1, 2017, a Golden Palm Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars was dedicated to Arnold Palmer, honoring his contributions to golf and his legacy.

September 2018: Daughter Discusses Political Views

In September 2018, Palmer's daughter, Peggy, characterized him as a Goldwater Republican in an interview with The Sporting News. She also mentioned his friendships with President Dwight D. Eisenhower and Donald Trump, providing insights into his political affiliations and relationships.

March 4, 2020: Commemorative Stamp Issued

On March 4, 2020, the United States Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp honoring Arnold Palmer, recognizing his significance as a sports icon and cultural figure.