Ron and Nancy Johnson first discovered the area of Graham County, North Carolina in 1975. They purchased property there in 1981 and moved there permanently in 1990 after Ron retired from the West Palm Beach, Florida Fire Department. Nancy worked as the Santeetlah Town Clerk for several years beginning in 1992. These pages take a detailed look at the Town of Lake Santeetlah which had its beginnings as Thunderbird Resort in the 1960s. Much has changed over the years and changes continue for this small mountain community.
1960s Map of Thunderbird. Note plan for future hotel at lower left.
Town of Lake Santeetlah 2020
Ron & Nancy with Larry the Cable Guy, during the filming of "Only in America" summer of 2013.
Ronald E. Johnson retired from the West Palm Beach Fire Department in 1991 after 22 years of service. He relocated to the small Smoky Mountain community of Robbinsville, North Carolina. He and his wife Nancy operate several successful businesses, including the world famous Tail of the Dragon. Their 20 acre home has a substantial vegetable garden, wooded trails, a flock of chickens and motorcycle collection.
Contact Ron directly mailto:[email protected]