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History
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The modern Shannondale community in Jefferson County was established in the mid-1950's by Charles M. Johnson, an engineer and real estate broker. He realized the potential of the property surrounding the Shannondale Springs as a haven for residents of the Baltimore/Washington area. He invited people to come and enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River. In 1955, the first road was built in the development then consisting of 2500 acres. Three years later, an Adirondack styled lodge, bath house, as well as, an Olympic-sized swimming pool had been constructed ,in addition to, the recreational facilities and camping facilities on the river. During that period, many summer/vacation homes were built and more than 20 miles of rugged road had been put into use.
In 1961, work commenced on a earthen dam to impound a 65 acre lake adjacent to and partially surrounding the clubhouse and pool. When it was completed, the lake was the largest in the state owned by a private entity. Building and membership in the community club (membership was concomitant with the purchase of development property) increased dramatically with the lake's completion. By 1970, Shannondale consisted of more than 500 homes, many of which were converted to full time residences, and over 40 miles of roads. C. M. Johnson remains one of the few developers of "Shannondale style" communities who delivered what was promised to its membership. The club relinquished its private status in 1972 and was bought by a consortium of members in 1978. As a result of changing demographics and the loss of operating capital from land sales, the operation never regained the lustre of the years of the late 50's and 60's. The club is now privately owned and was operated as The Mountain Lake Lodge. The lodge's website, linked in the previous sentence, is still on the air after the tragic fire that destroyed the old Shannondale Clubhouse on June 19th 2003. Those wishing to know future plans of the owners are advised to keep checking its URL. The investigation into the cause of the conflagration has stalled, likely for good. The surrounding community now consists of more than 1200 homes, most of which are inhabited on a full-time basis complete with a newly revamped Community website & MESSAGE BOARD for current residents and which hosts our Alumni site now. The over 70 miles of roads present are now maintained by the State of West Virginia.
A lot of things have changed since we spent the weekends and summers of our youth in Shannondale. The physical characteristics of the area have been altered, some of the landmarks are gone or in disrepair, we've all gotten older (dagnabbit), and unfortunately we've grown apart and lost contact with many of our friends. But one thing remains immutable - our memories of the good times we shared during those wonderful years. We're committed to keeping those memories alive!!!
Acknowledgements for the history
Bicentennial History of Jefferson County 1801-2001 compiled by Hugh Voress
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