1970s - 1990's
The history of Sapphire Valley, North Carolina, from 1970 to 1990 is defined by a transition from family ownership to large-scale corporate development, marking its emergence as a year-round resort destination.
The history of Sapphire Valley, North Carolina, from 1970 to 1990 is defined by a transition from family ownership to large-scale corporate development, marking its emergence as a year-round resort destination.
Hilltop Townhome
The 1970s: Corporate Expansion
The decade began with a major ownership change that set the stage for rapid growth:
Realtec Acquisition (1970): The Howerdd family, who had developed the resort's modern foundation since 1954, sold the property to the Realtec Corporation.
The Hilltop Association (Early 1970s): Realtec initiated the first major residential projects, including the Hilltop area townhomes and condos overlooking Fairfield Lake.
Ownership Shifts (1973–1974): Realtec was purchased by CertainTeed, which established the Builders Investment Group to drive material sales through resort development.(Image: First townhouses built by Realtec - Hilltop area.)
1864 Farmhouse as Fairfield Antiques by Joyce Davis
During the 1980s, the resort expanded its infrastructure and professionalized its recreational amenities:
Skiing Innovations (Late 1970s–Mid-1980s): Under local entrepreneur Jim Monteith, Ski Sapphire Valley modernized with its first snow groomer and new snowmaking equipment.
Golf Course Development:
The Holly Forest Golf Course was completed and opened in the summer of 1982.
In 1983, the Country Club of Sapphire Valley was sold back to its members.
Facility Changes (1986): The historic Fairfield Inn, originally built in the late 1800s, was razed in 1986 to make way for further modernization.
Residential Growth: Development expanded into numerous new divisions, including Holly Forest, Emerald Cove, and Whisper Lake.
Fairfield Lake
By 1990, the resort was transitioning toward owner control. The Fairfield Sapphire Valley Master Association became active to protect owner rights and manage the complex network of property owner associations that had formed during the previous two decades of expansion.