Lake Martin is a large man-made lake located in central Alabama, covering over 44,000 acres and featuring over 700 miles of shoreline. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities, and it has a rich history dating back over 100 years.
The lake was created in the early 1900s by the Alabama Power Company, which built a hydroelectric dam on the Tallapoosa River to generate electricity. The dam created a lake that flooded over 30,000 acres of land, including several small towns and communities. Many of the residents who were displaced by the lake’s creation were compensated for their loss and given the opportunity to relocate to a new town that was built near the lake, called Kowaliga.
In the years since its creation, Lake Martin has become a popular destination for recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is home to several marinas, campgrounds, and lakeside communities, and it is an important part of the local economy. In addition, the lake serves as a vital source of drinking water for the surrounding area.
Despite its man-made origins, Lake Martin has become a natural and integral part of the community, and it is loved and enjoyed by generations of locals and visitors. The lake’s rich history and importance to the community make it a unique and special place that is sure to be enjoyed for many more years to come.
Another great resource of the lake and the history of the lake is the Lake Martin Resource Association – Here is their information on the history of the lake – LMRA LM History
