Our Story

On September 9, 1775, the Provincial Congress authorized the organization of thirty-five county Militias, including the North Carolina Pasquotank County Militia.

In December of that year, these brave men would soon find themselves integrated into the Continental Army under the command of General George Washington, fighting in notable battles like Great Bridge, VA, on December 9, 1775, and Camden, SC, on August 16, 1780.

As the Revolutionary War drew to a close, the Continental Congress showed gratitude for their service by granting them War Bounties in the form of land grants. These early settlers brought with them the name of their North Carolina county and christened their new home Pasquotank, eventually shortened to Pasquo. The year was 1783, and a new chapter in the valley’s history began.

In 1801, President Thomas Jefferson signed The Treat of Fort Adams prior to the Louisiana Purchase to permit the construction of a road, later named the Natchez Trace. The road was fully navigable by wagon in 1809 and allowed frontiersmen to travel to Nashville in only two weeks. The northern terminus of the Natchez Trace runs through Stephens Valley, and much of a young nation’s history occurred right here. From the “Great Spiritual Awakening” brought by Methodist Circuit Preachers, Baptist missionaries and, Cumberland Presbyterians, to the American soldiers marching south under the command of Andrew Jackson in the War of 1812, to the countless farmers and merchants that walked across this land, Stephens Valley has a solid foothold in the history of the New Republic.

In 1925, the Stephens family made their mark on history by founding the Stephens Manufacturing Company in Nashville. Their durable work clothing quickly gained popularity, leading them to become one of the earliest advertisers on the renowned Grand Ole Opry radio show. With their newfound success, W.E. Stephens acquired a large tract of land at the northern end of the Natchez Trace. Here, he built a farm where he lived the rest of his days, tending to Angus cattle, sheep, and pigs and cultivating crops and hay.

Continuing the tradition of giving, in 1932, W.E. Stephens Sr. seized another opportunity to provide for his son. He purchased 1,000 acres of farmland at $10 per acre, establishing Steveway Farms. Together, father and son built the log house that still serves as the heart of the Stephens’ home today. It was a place that held cherished memories for young Bill Stephens, fostering his love for the outdoors and farming.

On January 1, 1936, the Stephens family moved into their new abode at Steveway Farms, cementing their connection to the land. Bill, a self-proclaimed “hillbilly who knows everything about farming,” embraced the responsibility of overseeing the daily operations of the farm his father had created.

Upon his father’s death, Bill Stephens inherited his family’s land in the valley, and he lived a long and satisfying life overseeing the daily operations of the farm his father created. Across his life, Bill Stephens witnessed Nashville’s growth and the arrival of new families seeking solace in the peaceful countryside, just as his family had done many generations before.

Inspired by his father’s example and driven by his unwavering belief that “it is more blessed to give than to receive,” Bill Stephens embarked on a mission to enrich the lives of future generations who would call Stephens Valley home. Together with his wife, they envisioned a vibrant community that harmonized with nature while allocating a significant portion of the development’s proceeds to charitable and mission work. In the early 2000s, they diligently sought a team to bring their vision to fruition, ultimately selecting John Rochford for this monumental task.

Bill Stephens, a man who tirelessly worked the land until his passing in 2015, held a steadfast vision. He aimed to transform his beloved property into a thriving community where people could embrace a harmonious coexistence with nature while making a difference through charitable endeavors. Bill’s firm belief in the words of Christ and his lifelong love for giving was inspired by his father’s legacy. Today, Bill’s beloved wife, Neika Stephens, still resides in the beautiful home they built together in 1936. Neika, alongside the dedicated developers of Stephens Valley, remains steadfast in honoring Bill’s desire to preserve the pristine, forested areas of the land.

Finally, on December 6, 2017, the doors of Stephens Valley swung open, inviting the community to witness the grand opening of a community born from a dream. The Developer, Rochford Realty & Construction Company, proudly hosted the Grand Opening event, joined by Land Innovations, the Project Manager, who shared a commitment to preserving the land and honoring the Stephens family’s shared vision. It was a moment of celebration and unity, where Neika Stephens, a pillar of strength, had the honor of cutting the ribbon, symbolizing the official unveiling of Stephens Valley. Together, this dedicated team embarked on a journey to create a lasting legacy for all those who would call Stephens Valley their home, guided by the unwavering commitment to preserving the land’s pristine, forested areas—a testament to Bill’s enduring love and Neika’s steadfast dedication. Stephens Valley’s story is about resilience, generosity, and a deep connection to the land. From the courage of revolutionary militiamen to the founding of a manufacturing company and the dedication of the Stephens family, this remarkable valley holds the essence of history within its embrace. As we step into the future, we carry with us the spirit of the past, cherishing the traditions and values that shaped Stephens Valley into the thriving community it is today.

On August 24, 2018, a significant milestone was reached in the history of Stephens Valley. It was the day when the first residents joyfully moved into their new homes, marking the beginning of a vibrant community.

As the holiday season approached, Stephens Valley eagerly embraced the spirit of Christmas. The community came together on December 3, 2018, for an enchanting event—the first annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Gathered near the silo in Meriwether Park, over 100 people, including the Westminster Chapel Choir, Stephens Valley residents, neighbors, and friends, joined in the festivities. The air was filled with merriment as we sang Christmas carols, indulged in cookies, and savored steaming cups of hot chocolate. At 6:45 pm, Neika Stephens, a guiding light in the community, illuminated the tree, igniting a sense of wonder and joy. It was a cherished moment that set the stage for future Stephens Valley Christmas Tree Lightings, uniting us in celebration for years to come.

On February 1, 2019, a new chapter of fun and frolic began in Stephens Valley with the opening of the dog park. Furry friends and their owners reveled in the open spaces, wagging tails, and delightful companionship, creating a haven for four-legged residents.

As summer rolled around, June 15, 2019, became a momentous day in the community’s calendar. It marked the first Annual BBQ & Bluegrass event, bringing residents, neighbors, family, and friends together. Meriwether Park buzzed with excitement as BBQ food trucks delighted taste buds, lively bluegrass music filled the air, and laughter mingled with the melodies. The festivities included face painting and bounce houses and ended with a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors. It was a celebration of togetherness, and the anticipation grew for the event to blossom and flourish each summer.

In the journey of Stephens Valley, August 15, 2019, etched a remarkable milestone—the sale of the 50th home. It was a testament to this vibrant community’s growing appeal and desirability, welcoming new families into the fold and expanding the tapestry of shared experiences.

November 1, 2019, witnessed the unveiling of new amenities that added even more joy to the lives of residents. The community fire pit crackled with warmth as neighbors gathered to share stories and create cherished memories. Paved nature trails beckoned exploration, inviting residents to immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. And amidst the laughter and camaraderie, disc golf enthusiasts reveled in friendly competition, honing their skills on the challenging course. These additions infused Stephens Valley with an even greater sense of unity and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders surrounding them.

Continuing the journey, June 21, 2020, marked a moment of celebration as the 100th home found its rightful owner, a testament to the allure of Stephens Valley. The community continued to grow, evolving into a thriving neighborhood.

On February 1, 2022, another significant milestone was reached with the sale of the 200th home. Stephens Valley flourished as more families discovered the joys of living in this remarkable community, where nature and community intertwine.

As spring blossomed, April 24, 2022, brought forth the grand opening of the Community Garden. A haven for green thumbs and enthusiasts, it provided a place to cultivate vibrant flowers, aromatic herbs, and bountiful harvests. The garden symbolized growth and unity, nurturing a sense of shared responsibility and a connection to the earth.

July 1, 2022, marked a day of celebration and splashes of delight. A ribbon-cutting ceremony inaugurated the community’s first pool, followed by a thrilling “pool jump” that inaugurated a new era of aquatic enjoyment. The following day, the community came together for the first pool party, a jubilant gathering that coincided with America’s birthday. The pool became a hub of laughter, relaxation, and countless memories, adding a refreshing dimension to the Stephens Valley experience. View the video here: https://vimeo.com/729767245

On June 10, 2023, the community basked in the magic of the 5th Annual BBQ & Bluegrass event. Over 1,000 people flocked to Stephens Valley, eagerly anticipating the vibrant festivities that awaited them. The air resonated with the soulful strains of live music as friends and families indulged in delicious Southern eats and refreshing treats. Unique local vendors showcased their talents, offering a diverse array of wares to peruse. The evening crescendoed with a magnificent firework display that painted the night sky with awe-inspiring colors, creating a lasting memory for all. The 5th Annual BBQ & Bluegrass event embodied the spirit of Stephens Valley, a community united in celebration, joy, and the bonds that make it an extraordinary place to call home.

In October of 2024, we celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Clock Tower at Stephens Valley, destined to become a beacon of our community’s future. Located at the heart of the Union Bridge/Pasquo Rd roundabout, this iconic structure signified the start of Downtown Stephens Valley—a vibrant hub where history meets innovation. The Clock Tower was envisioned as a gathering place for all, symbolizing our commitment to creating lasting memories. We embarked on this exciting new chapter, bringing the vision of our downtown to life.

This year marked the fifth celebration of the cherished Festival of Trees at Stephens Valley, an enchanting tradition that brings our community together in the spirit of the holiday season. Residents and visitors alike gathered to marvel at the beautifully decorated trees, each telling its own story of creativity and community spirit. The festival not only delights the senses but also fosters a deep sense of connection and joy among all who participate, continuing to weave the festive fabric of our community’s rich tapestry.

In May 2025, Stephens Valley marked a significant milestone with the commencement of construction on its highly anticipated Downtown district. This development follows the completion of the iconic Clock Tower and signifies the next phase in transforming the community into a vibrant, mixed-use town center. The Downtown area, located in the Davidson County corner of Stephens Valley, is designed to be a pedestrian-friendly hub of community interaction. It will feature 88,000 square feet of commercial space, including local shops, restaurants, and office spaces. Residential options will encompass brownstones, townhomes, condos, and live/workspaces, fostering a dynamic live-work-explore environment.