Yes it was a term used before the 1980s. There's an article in the Daylily Journal of Spring 1979 about bud builders mentioning it was not a new phenomenon. The article says 'Ollalie Gold Rim' was reputed to have produced 96 blooms on a single scape. The following are listed as bud builders in the article:
Ollalie All Summer
Texas All Summer
Angel Unawares
Charbonier
Red Siren
Song of Hiawatha
Lone Eagle
Exalted Ruler
Brave World
Carolidawn
Extra Special
Gloria Ritchie
Hudson Valley
Lusty Leland
Jewel of Hearts
Secret Lyric
Vestal Beauty
