There is a gap (passageway) called
Granny Squirrel Gap located in the
scenic mountains of western North Carolina. This gap runs between the
Snowbird Mountains and the Valley River Mountains, just
northeast of the town of Andrews. According to a book in the local library (Our Heritage
by Margaret Walker Freel), many names in this area
originated from the Cherokee Indians. The book goes on to explain
that many years ago, there was an Indian woman named
"Squirrel" living in the gap and as she grew
older, the Indians named this gap "Granny Squirrel Gap" as a sign of
their respect for her.
Our
community adopted the
name of Granny Squirrel Gap from the gap it borders. It is a small
but proud, covenant-protected community
consisting of over 50 homes along with many undeveloped lots, all
accessed by several miles of private roads that transverse our 300 acre+
wooded development.
A friendly creek meanders down the mountain, creating at least one beautiful waterfall along with many scenic views which can be observed either from a vehicle or while enjoying a pleasant hike.
A
clubhouse is available for property owners which provides a place to hold
"movie
nights," annual meetings, picnics, watching ball games and other
community activities.
The community of Granny Squirrel Gap is sometimes referred to as GSMC (shortened from Granny Squirrel Mountain Club Homeowners Association, Inc.) More often, it is simply called "Granny Squirrel" which also describes the area on both sides of the highway northeast of Andrews.
The association's governing body consists of a board of three directors. Each year, one director is elected for a term of three years. This election is by a vote of property owners at the annual meeting. Following each annual meeting, the directors then appoint officers of the corporation for the next year. All directors and officers serve on a voluntary basis and NO director or officer is paid any salary or wages.
The GSMC community has a common water system which includes wells, a water storage area and several miles of water pipes that are capable of providing water to virtually every lot in the subdivision. This water system is maintained by a North Carolina-licensed company. Along with routine maintenance, this company is also responsible for periodic, state-directed tests on the water to ensure its continued safety and quality. Plans to increase the capacity of the water system are currently in operation, which will allow the construction of more homes in the subdivision upon its completion. The water system is funded by a portion of the annual property owner maintenance fees.
The roads, ditches and culverts inside the GSMC subdivision are also maintained by annual maintenance fees, as are several common areas and association-owned structures. This maintenance is performed in an attempt to keep the community safe and pleasant and one in which all property owners can take pride.
In addition to "paid maintenance" many residents freely donate time and effort to improve the safety and beauty of the neighborhood. This can occur while working with other "volunteers" but mostly it's just someone doing their part in their own quiet way. When asked why they do this, most people explain this is their home and they enjoy the pride they feel in helping to make it a better place to live.
A Neighborhood Watch program is active in the community and has proven to be very effective. Along with the "watch" provided by each neighbor, certain residents drive around the neighborhood periodically, providing additional security and visibility. All property owners are encouraged to notify the local sheriff's office immediately upon seeing any suspicious activity in the area.