Fox Chase, nestled on the western edge of Newton, North Carolina, is more than just a residential area—it’s a living chronicle of community, heritage, and growth. Those winding streets, shaded by mature oaks and dotted with homes of various eras, whisper stories of families, milestones, and local legacy that define the character of Newton itself. As a longtime resident and neighbor, I'm excited to share the journey of Fox Chase, from its earliest days to the vibrant locale it remains today.
The Origins: How Fox Chase Got Its Name
Many newcomers assume the name "Fox Chase" refers to local wildlife, and in a way, they're right. The area that would become Fox Chase was once a patchwork of open fields, woodlands, and meandering streams—prime territory for red foxes. In the early 20th century, hunting clubs from Newton and nearby Hickory visited these woods in pursuit of the swift, clever creatures. It was a popular “fox chasing” spot for sporting gentlemen and families alike.
When developers began planning the neighborhood in the late 1960s, they wanted to honor the area’s sporting past and rustic charm. The moniker "Fox Chase" stuck, evoking both the history of the land and a sense of adventure and nature woven into everyday life here.
Key Historical Milestones
- Early Settlement and Farmland (1900s–1960s): Before neighborhood streets like Fox Chase Drive and Red Fox Trail existed, the land here consisted largely of apple orchards and a dairy operation. Some original farmhouse foundations remain, tucked behind what is now Penninger Park.
- Establishment of Fox Chase (1971): Local developer Harold Cline purchased parcels from the Dellinger and Penninger families, both well-known in Newton’s agricultural circles. By 1971, streets were surveyed, utilities installed, and the first split-level and ranch homes appeared—many still standing today.
- Community Building (1980s): The creation of Fox Chase Neighborhood Association in 1982 brought neighbors together for annual cookouts, holiday decorating contests, and a strong voice in local government when advocating for expanded sidewalks along West 20th Street. These traditions, especially the July Fourth block party on Penny Lane, carry on proudly.
- Modern Development (2000s–present): As Newton expanded, Fox Chase has seen new families move in, renovations to classic homes, and updated play equipment at Penninger Park, thanks to city partnerships and activism from longtime residents.
Notable Landmarks and Buildings
Fox Chase blends historical charm with modern living. As you stroll through the area, keep an eye out for several points of pride:
- The Penninger Stone Wall: At the entrance to Fox Chase Drive stands a low stone wall, built by hand in the 1950s by John Penninger himself. The wall, restored as a community project in 2003, frames the gateway to the neighborhood and is often bedecked in ribbons and wreaths for the holidays.
- Penninger Park: Spanning nearly five acres, this gem is both a hub for neighborhood gatherings and a green respite. Its walking paths mirror those of cow trails from decades ago, winding past old-growth trees planted by the original farm’s caretakers. The pavilion, rebuilt in 2015, hosts everything from birthday parties to book clubs.
- The Cline-Young House: Located on Red Fox Trail, this stately brick home is one of the few two-story Colonials in Fox Chase, built by Harold Cline’s daughter in 1975. Its wide porch and meticulously tended gardens are a local landmark, and the house was featured on the Newton Heritage Tour in 2019.
- Fox Chase Entrance Sign: The hand-carved wooden sign, with a fox leaping over a patch of ferns, has greeted residents for more than four decades. It was designed by local artist Sarah Jacobs, who lived on Renwick Circle for over 20 years.
Evolution Through the Decades
Fox Chase’s story is one of adaptation and resilience. What began as a simple residential project grew into one of Newton’s most sought-after neighborhoods—thanks in large part to the pride of its people.
The 1970s–1980s: Growing Roots
Families arrived from across Catawba County, drawn by spacious lots and a close-knit feel. Children rode bikes along Hillcroft Lane, and morning coffee on front porches became a daily ritual. The annual fall hayride, which began in 1977, was a highlight.
The 1990s–2000s: Renewal and Revitalization
Residents banded together to combat the growing pains common in any maturing community. When stormwater issues threatened the east end of Red Fox Trail, neighbors formed a task force and worked with the city for drainage solutions—a testament to Fox Chase’s collaborative spirit.
The Present Day: Embracing Change
Today, Fox Chase remains a harmonious mix of original homeowners and newcomers who appreciate its heritage. The trees are taller, the sidewalks broader, yet the echoes of friendly voices, summer cookouts, and generations growing up together endure.
Home prices have risen as the Newton area flourishes, yet Fox Chase maintains a welcoming vibe. Block parties, book swaps at the little free library on Fox Chase Drive, and the annual spring flower planting at Penninger Park keep connections strong.
What Makes Fox Chase Special?
Every neighborhood has its stories, but in Fox Chase, history is woven into the fabric of everyday living:
- A shared respect for the land’s agricultural roots
- Pride in preserving landmarks like the Penninger Wall and community park
- Welcoming traditions that bridge old and new
As we look to the future, the residents of Fox Chase honor the past while embracing growth. Many believe that this combination of respect, care, and community spirit will ensure its special character for generations to come.
Whether you’re passing through or calling it home, Fox Chase offers a warm reminder that neighborhoods, like families, are strongest when they cherish their stories and build new chapters together.