J.R. Clontz's Ponderosa, lovingly known as "The Farm," in Old Fort, owned and operated by Tamora Clontz, was completely decimated when Hurricane Helene swept across WNC on September 27th, 2024.

The farm was home to Tamora, but also dogs, cats, goats, chickens, ducks, peacocks, donkeys, and several beloved horses, both personal & boarded. Although the farm did border Crooked Creek, there had never been any flooding that had reached the house or barn, so there wasn't much concern for the coming storm. When the water and wind came quickly, it brought with it a wall of mud and debris which clogged the creek under a nearby bridge. This damming of the creek forced the water to change direction and send everything directly towards the house and barn. When Tamora realized what was happening around her home, she gathered her 7 "Farm Dogs" and got them all into the attic of her home, where she rode out the storm, while hearing the destruction around her and making plans to get out onto the roof if the house was released from its foundation. Thankfully, the house, though completely destroyed by water, did not come down. The barn, paddocks, and pastures were not as lucky. The landscape is now carved and cratered with 25+ foot ravines. The barn is ripped and twisted apart, and the arena is gone without a trace. Tamora's beloved "Mud Hut," which was her passion project and home to her pottery studio, was carried downriver without leaving as much as a board behind.

In addition to the material items lost, so were the lives of many small animals and birds that were not able to escape the water. The most notable loss of life being Adeena, the Halflinger Mare that was the heart and soul of the Therapeutic Riding Program that was housed and run on the property. Every child that ever received therapeutic riding lessons in McDowell County knew, loved, and adored Adeena. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her.

The farm was a respite to all that ever had the pleasure of visiting. Tamora was a gracious host to any and all that wanted to come out just to love on the animals or go on a ride. You'll never meet a more generous soul, and it is her time of need and a chance to repay her for what she has given the community. At this time, we are asking for any monetary donations which will go directly to Tamora to rebuild her home, her farm, and her life. Thank you!