And so, some of these early cottages remain: They are the history of the lake. These summer homes tell the story of the past five decades, and reflect that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Filled with relics of the 60s and 70s, they are the throwbacks even when they have been carefully kept and renovated by the next generation of the family. Many of these first families have strived to keep the same feel. Even the subdivision names tell stories: Merriman Point on the Roanoke River arm was purchased by a local doctor who then sold the lots to his partners and colleagues at Roanoke Memorial Hospital. It was given the nickname “Penicillin Point” because it was known as the place to go if you needed a doctor. Shenandoah Shores was purchased by the CEO of Shenandoah Life Insurance Company who sold lots to the employees. He gave it the name Shenandoah Shores to reflect its history; he sold the land to his employees as a perk. He held a lottery to make it fair. You got to choose your lot in order— those who drew the higher numbers eagerly awaited their turn to purchase a piece of this beautiful land that sat high on a hill of the Blackwater River overlooking the slowly growing lake. Francis Point was named for the local real estate developer who bought acreage up on the Roanoke River. Once the grandfather purchased the land, a slab was poured and a cottage built overlooking the wide mouth of the Roanoke River. The years moved along and a swimming pool was added; then a bunkroom, patio and a firepit to hold the growing family and their friends. The family still owns that house today as the cove behind it slowly fills with neighboring houses.
this is how we do
LOCAL 7AM-7PM I FREE CHECKING ATM FEES ON US * I ONLINE I MOBILE
and your money stays here. With six locations in Roanoke, Salem, Christiansburg and right here at SML, HomeTown Bank is just around the corner. Experience world-class amenities, friendly service, high-tech convenience and more when you make the switch to Your HomeTown today.
* ATM refund amount varies by account type.
Member FDIC
hometownbank.com s m l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m 47