Planned Boys' Camp Becomes Lake Sega Properties

During the 1920s real estate was a booming business in Transylvania County.  Properties were being developed for business and residential use.  Residential development ranged from farm land and acreages to construction of subdivisions and new homes within the town of Brevard.

A 50-acre property two miles west of Brevard was originally planned as a boy’s summer camp.  In September 1924, Robert Lawrence began construction of a lake and planned to build cabins as well.

The following June, Lawrence announced a prize of $5.00 gold for the best name for the camp.  The name Sega, meaning welcome, was chosen but had not been suggested by anyone so the $5.00 gold was giving away at a July Fourth celebration at the lake. 

Although the camp itself never can to be, the lake was open to swimmers.  Tennis courts and boats were furnished to visitors and picnic parties were welcome.  Lake Sega became a popular picnic spot for school, church and other groups.

Lawrence had served as the first Transylvania County Farm Agent from 1917 until 1920 and then as the Cleveland County Farm Agent 1920-1925.  He returned to Brevard in late 1925 and opened a real estate and insurance company with business partner, Jim Mallory.  At that time they began to develop the Lake Sega property into a residential subdivision.  Work included grading roads, installing water and sewer lines and electrical and telephone service. 

Lot prices ranged from $450 to $1000.  The lots, which sold quickly, were purchased by people from outside of the county looking to build summer homes. 

North Carolina State College head football coach, Gus Tebell had a home at Lake Sega.  The Wolfpack team used the facility as a training ground in September 1926.

Community house at Lake Sega.

In 1928 Lawrence and his family moved to Canton where he was an insurance agent but he continued to own and operate Lake Sega cottages and recreational area.  The Lawrences returned to Brevard in 1941.

Cabin rentals were available at Lake Sega until at least 1965.  The property included a community house, badminton, croquet and shuffleboard courts along with swimming and boating at the lake.

Photographs and information for this column are provided by the Rowell Bosse North Carolina Room, Transylvania County Library. Visit the NC Room during regular library hours (Monday-Friday) to learn more about our history and see additional photographs. For more information, comments, or suggestions contact Marcy at marcy.thompson@transylvaniacounty.org or 828-884-1820.