After studying, researching and following the movement of New Urbanism for nearly ten years, developer Steve Bacon, a twenty year resident of Jonesborough, felt the time was right for such a neighborhood in his community. Developing within the core of the town, utilizing the principles of  New Urbanism, required working with local municipalities to gain variances on zoning requirements. In winter 2005, heavy equipment began cutting in the roads for Phase I. Street layout was adjusted several times in order to save large, mature trees. Together with partner Quad City Builders, construction began on the first several houses with clear, decisive objectives of working with the natural topography; maintaining natural growth and mature trees; providing green space and parks; minimizing the impact on the environment; and creating a sustainable, walkable community in harmony and balance with nature, the environment and the historic district of Jonesborough.

The name of New Halifax ties directly with the history of Jonesborough. In the mid-eighteenth century, early pioneers to the region established the Watauga and Nolichuckey settlements. Cherokee Indian attaches were a constant threat after the British armed and encouraged attacks on settlers during the Revolutionary War. In 1777, after Virginia declined protection to the settlers, several delegates of the two settlements traveled to Halifax, North Carolina to request protection and a system for handling legal matters, land purchases, disputes, etc. Washington County was annexed into the state of North Carolina and a committee was formed, headed by Jesse Walton, to establish the location for a courthouse, prison and stocks. The location selected was halfway between the two existing settlements. In January 1779, Walton introduced a bill to lay out a town to be named Jonesborough. The name was selected to honor and find favor with Willie Jones, a powerful member of the State Senate from Halifax, who had been a supporter of the overmountain settlers.

The streets within the community are named after individuals who contributed to establishing the town and the early history of Jonesborough. Walton Street after Jesse Walton; Blount Street after William Blount, the first territorial governor of Tennessee; and William Chester, one of the founding fathers of Jonesborough.

Black Hawk Building Group takes great pride in the town of Jonesborough and its rich history. We are pleased with the progression of New Halifax, its tie to the downtown community, and are dedicated to providing residents with a beautiful, sustainable neighborhood.