50 Sales of Homes and Coveted Homesites

While our coastal setting and Lowcountry allure draw newcomers to The Ford, it’s the people that define our culture and community. And, this year, with 50 sales we’ve had the opportunity to welcome many new members, a few of whom moved into new homes built from the ground up in our Silk Hope and Cherry Hill neighborhoods, while others chose to purchase an estate home within our five enclaves. For some, becoming a member at The Ford involved claiming a coveted homesite and breaking ground on a custom Lowcountry dream home.

The 50 sales included 13 existing members that sold their homesite and reinvested in The Ford by buying one of our available architectural heritage homes — a testament to the desire for immediate living within our storied sanctuary amongst friends and family. Four of our new members in 2022 were non-resident National Members of The Ford who became full multigenerational members by purchasing a home at The Ford.

With new and familiar faces in our community, the spirit and traditions of Southern hospitality are felt all around. The bonds between parents, children and grandchildren grow even stronger every year, thanks to the uniquely multigenerational club membership at The Ford. Here’s to new neighbors and friends, and to future members we are excited to welcome next year and beyond. 

Exclusive Member Events, Only at The Ford

There were so many incredible events in 2022, some new and some long-standing traditions. The events at The Ford are always exclusive to members of our community and their guests, offering a special way to connect with fellow neighbors.

One of our members’ favorite events from this past year was our annual Kentucky Derby Party at The Main House. Everyone of all ages loved joining in the excitement of the horse races while sipping down mint juleps. And then, the real fun began with pig races (yes, live pigs). Our members had so much fun cheering on their favorite pig to win the race!

The Ford also held its first-ever Nature Triathlon, which included kayaking, biking and walking or running through our land while searching for nature-inspired clues. Our members teamed up in groups of one to three people to compete in this recreational and fitness-forward tournament. 

This year, The Ford welcomed a new naturalist to the staff, and along with the expansion came new nature-themed events. Holiday wreath and ornament making and flower arranging are just a few of the fun workshops led by our very own naturalist.

Between our seasonal oyster roasts at Henry Ford’s historic Oyster House, Cookies & Cocktails at The Main House and more member events, there’s always an abundance of activities to explore at The Ford.

Welcoming Our New General Manager

We recently welcomed our new General Manager COO, John Johnstone, to The Ford. With nearly 40 years of global experience in luxury hospitality, John has an incredible record of offering the highest level of service possible. Joining us from the team at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, John is a collaborative, strategic thinker who brings his affable warmth to our community and has already shown his talent for exceeding all expectations.

The Ford In the News

Good news travels fast. The Ford made headlines in Luxury Magazine’s summer 2022 issue in the publication’s annual Home Guide. Titled “Forever Homes,” the story speaks to the attraction affluent buyers have for a forever ‘escape home.’ Writer Irene Rawlings describes the trending shift toward making a summer home in the country a primary home base. 

In Savannah Magazine, one of our members’ recently remodeled home was featured in an article highlighting the details of its inspiring interior design and architecture. The exquisite barn-turned-home pays tribute to its Lowcountry surroundings, while also embracing modern comforts.

And speaking of Savannah, which is only a short drive from The Ford, the city was named the top friendliest city in the U.S. in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2022 and claimed the number-two spot on Southern Living’s “The South’s Best Cities 2022” list. 

The Best is Yet to Come

As we look toward 2023, we’re especially grateful for the memories shared between families, neighbors and friends at The Ford. Our private Lowcountry community is upheld by the spirit of connection, a feeling of warmth we’re proud to share with new members. And now, with a number of Discovery Visits already scheduled for 2023, community events on the horizon, new homes under construction along with more exciting news to announce — we know the best is yet to come.

Freedom to Explore

The less-populated living at The Ford means our residents have the room to explore virtually untouched land. Unlike other communities in the Lowcountry, The Ford—set on 1,800 acres of storied land and waterways—is low-density, which provides our residents the opportunity to make the most of every amenity available. Even better, the connections made at The Ford transform into a thriving community where neighbors are friends and friends are family.

Exercise and Recreation

Fresh air can’t be beat by much else. In a low-density setting such as The Ford, recreational activities surround you at every turn. Whether it’s fishing in the Deepwater Marina or getting close-up with nature at the Naturalist Center, the chance to seek outdoor activities are endless.  The Ford’s recreational activities—which offer plenty of health and exercise benefits—are designed to be enjoyed together. The low-density aspect of our land means you’ll have more time to spend doing the things you love, with the ones you love—no crowds in the way.

An Intimate Connection with Nature

Verdant wetlands, tidal creeks, ponds, lakes and woodlands at The Ford have all been preserved with care. When you live at The Ford, you’re situated right along Georgia’s great Ogeechee River. The allure of Spanish moss, which sways in the light breeze, is unique to the Lowcountry, rekindling stories of the past. Our residents wake up to gentle sunlight and breathe easy as the sun fades away into the surrounding waters, finding moments of peace and welcome solitude.

Golf with No Tee Times

Our award-winning, 250-acre Pete Dye-designed golf course requires no tee times, so you and your family can pick up a game at any time. Shaped by freshwater lakes, lush meadows and scenic coastline, our golf course immerses you in an experience that’s as much as a sport as it is a wildlife tour. Our residents at The Ford can enjoy exclusive access to an unhurried game, at their own leisure—yet another benefit of our low-density setting in the Lowcountry.

Year-Round Coastal Climate

The Ford’s easy climate basks in sunshine and blue skies for nine months out of the year. For the majority of days spent at The Ford, weather is temperate, inviting families to pursue favorite outdoor activities, like golf, horseback riding, and fishing. Mild winters—from December through February—see average daytime highs in the low 60s. Coastal breezes draw our residents in, while the ever-present warmth of Southern hospitality remains year-round. 

Whether you come to call The Ford home or a retreat for the season, an uncommon way of life awaits.

Interested in more reasons to love living at The Ford? Take a look at Why We Chose The Ford: Video Highlights Experience of New Member Family.

The Olde Pink House

Imagine traditional lowcountry cuisine with an elegant twist, all dished out in an extravagant Colonial mansion painted, yes, pink. One of Savannah’s top-rated restaurants, The Olde Pink House is renowned for its memorable dining experience featuring fresh-caught seafood, prime aged beef and classic Southern fare like the popular jumbo lump crab cake with fried green tomatoes and a remoulade sauce. If you haven’t been yet, consider this the season to do it. 

The Grey

Who wouldn’t want to eat dinner in a 1938 Art Deco Greyhound bus terminal that’s been masterfully restored to its original luster? Not only that, The Grey is serving up some of the best modern Southern eats with a deep, layered and soulful approach thanks to acclaimed Chef Mashama Bailey. The menu is structured around the seasonality of Savannah and differs each evening, but one thing is for sure — it’ll be a meal you won’t forget. 

Husk

Set within the heart of Savannah’s Landmark Historic District, Husk is completely redefining Southern cuisine. Occupying a landmark mansion with charming porch seating, the popular restaurant features an ingredient-driven menu that accentuates the bounty of the surrounding area, resulting in a truly novel lowcountry dining experience. From the shrimp and grits to pimento cheese profiteroles, you can’t go wrong with anything on their ever-changing menu.

The Emporium

A modern Savannah hotspot, The Emporium features a stylish, eclectic ambiance that perfectly complements its locally sourced, seasonal menu. Located on Perry Street, the energetic destination features a highly curated wine market and kitchen where you’ll find everything from fresh-caught fish to wood-grilled filet to wild mushroom toast. Simply put, it’s a not-to-be-missed fall dining experience.

The Collins Quarter

By day, The Collins Quarter is a bustling, vibrant café. By evening, it transforms into a candle-lit restaurant that’s perfect for your next date night. Featuring a delectable menu that reflects both authentic Southern flavors and the rich culinary diversity of Australia, The Collins Quarter offers a unique twist on Savannah cooking with just-picked produce, interesting meats and, of course, fresh seafood. Just be sure to order the pan-roasted scallops with corn and chorizo as a starter.

Click here to explore all that awaits in your backyard here at The Ford.