Blue Ridge Shores History

The land encompassing Blue Ridge Shores (BRS) was originally part of the estate of Thomas Ellis, whose vast holdings by 1800 included a mill, cobbler’s shop, wheelwright, blacksmith shop, general store, and boasted an efficient stage coach line to such destinations as Orange Springs and the University of Virginia.

The idea of creating a recreational and retirement development originated with Dr. I.E. Byrd, an educator from Washington, D.C.  He bought over 700 acres of land and planned an elaborate complex consisting of a hotel , golf course, shopping and dining facilities and well as an area for vacationers.  His dreams were larger than his funds, however, he was forced to abandon the project.  He sold the property by 1958 to the American Realty Corporation and within a year Blue Ridge Shores, Inc. (not to be confused with Blue Ridge Shores Property Owners Association) was formed.

By 1960 the first dam was built filling the lake, an office and a few cottages were built, and than advertising campaign started.  In April 1960 the present Blue Ridge Property Owners Association (BRPOA) was established with a three-person Board of Directors, the first act in the long process of disassociation from the realty company and becoming an independent community. 

By 1963 control of the development was turned over to the new association by American Realty.  Many problems faced the fledgling community as they established a dues structure, repaired existing buildings and docks, and staffed administration and management positions.