In 1948, Blacksburg resident James Pandapas, known for having brought its first two industries to the town – Electro-Tec and Poly Scientific – purchased a 500-acre tract of Appalachian hardwoods and pines between Brush and Gap Mountains. He intended to use the timber for low-cost housing he was developing in Blacksburg and Narrows. Originally called “Poverty Pond,” Mr. Pandapas built the 8-acre, man-made pond. Using only road grading equipment, he dammed the five natural springs forming the pond, which is …
