As 2022 draws to a close, we’re reflecting upon memorable highlights at The Ford from the past year. From the special moments that brought our community together, to growing our Ford family, we are appreciative of all those who made this year a special one.
Read on for our yearly recap and a look ahead at what’s to come. If you haven’t scheduled your Discovery Visit yet, make 2023 the year to experience the finest coastal sporting club in the nation.
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.
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