SAPPHIRE VALLEY, NC — On March 21, 2014, the Sapphire Valley Historical Society (SVHS) officially launched its annual Restoration and Preservation initiative, beginning with the enigmatic "Wishing Well" of the historic Fairfield Inn.
Hidden for decades beneath a dense shroud of ivy and wild rhododendron, the Stone Basin is located just to the right of the Old Inn site. While long forgotten by many, historical evidence confirms its importance to the area’s early tourism; a postcard dated 1900 depicts the basin, and records suggest it served as a "healing spring" for guests of the Fairfield Inn as early as 1896.
“Very few people know that this Wishing Well even exists,” noted Rick Stargel, President of the SVHS. However, the site’s history may go much deeper than the 19th century. Current research suggests that portions of the structure—if not the entire artifact—predate the Fairfield Inn by centuries, potentially reaching back over 1,000 years.
Restoring a Landmark, Preserving a Legacy
The Sapphire Valley Historical Society (SVHS) is breathing new life into the "Stone Basin Mystery." In partnership with Camp Merrie-Woode, the society aims to restore the site to its original splendor, transforming it into a premier historic venue for visitors to Fairfield Lake. Once completed, the basin will serve as a picturesque backdrop for weddings, concerts, and celebrations at the Old Inn site.
The restoration began with a hands-on effort from SVHS Board Members Sharon Holt and Rick Stargel, supported by Social Media Manager Lisa Stargel and Jim Dunn, Co-Director of Camp Merrie-Woode.
The Digital Archive Initiative
Parallel to the physical restoration, a major digital preservation project is underway. "Our focus is on the birth of modern Sapphire Valley," says President Rick Stargel, noting the 60th anniversary of Gene Howerdd Sr.’s 1954 purchase of the 12,000-acre estate that became the Sapphire Valley Inn and Country Club.
