14 Fun Facts That You Should Know About Lake Martin
Are you thinking about purchasing commercial or residential real estate at Lake Martin? There’s a lot to learn about the area. Here are a few facts that you’ll find interesting.
1. Lake Martin is Actually a Reservoir
Martin Dam is the reason that Lake Martin exists. Located on the Tallapoosa River, construction on the dam began in 1923 and was completed in 1926. At the time, it was the largest man-made body of water in the world. It’s still the largest in Alabama, and in the Top Ten in the nation.
2. Martin Dam is Not the Original Name
The reservoir was originally referred to as Cherokee Bluffs. That name is derived from the geological formation where the dam was built. The name change took place in 1936 to honor Thomas Martin, then-president of Alabama Power Company.
3. A Local Power Company is One of the Top Owners of the Shoreline.
Alabama Power owns a lot of the shoreline along the lake. They began purchasing land to be flooded as early as 1916!
4. It’s Larger Than Many People Realize
How big is Lake Martin? Bigger than a lot of people think. The surface area encompasses 44,000 acres, and the length is 31 miles. The average depth is 41 feet, while some areas have a maximum depth of 150 feet. The shore length is around 743 miles.
5. The Lake is Located in Three Counties
Depending on where you happen to be, it’s possible to be in one of three different counties. The lake is included in Tallapoosa County, Elmore County, and Coosa County.
6. There Are Three Towns Beneath the Water
Three former towns/communities are found under the water. While most buildings were dismantled and relocated, there are some foundations and other remnants still present.
Irma was a small community found in Elmore County that is now beneath the water line. Benson in Tallapoosa County was a town with manufacturing facilities, homes, houses of worship, and even a post office. Kowaliga was once a thriving community with a college, railroad, and a large number of homes.
7. And a Graveyard on a Small Island
The dam project involved relocating 923 graves found in 12 cemeteries. Today, what remains is Cemetery Island. Located in the Bay Pine area, the island is roughly 30 by 30 yards.
8. Hank Williams Made Kowaliga and Lake Martin Famous
Country music legend Hank Williams had a vacation home near the lake. From his vantage point, he could see the Pontiac dealership with a display of a wooden male Native American in the front. That served as the inspiration for his 1953 hit song “Kaw-liga”. Recorded just three months before his death, the song continues to be one of his most beloved.
9. You Can Still See the Kowaliga Indian But Not the Original One
The wooden Indian eventually found a home at the Kowaliga Restaurant. You can still see one today, but it’s not the original.
The first was stolen shortly after Williams’ song hit the charts in 1952. Since then, it’s been replaced three times. More recently, the tomahawk held by the Indian was stolen and returned three times: 2013, 2015, and 2016.
10. Lake Martin is Officially Designated as a “Treasured Alabama Lake”
During the administration of Governor Bob Riley, Lake Martin gained the designation of “Treasured Alabama Lake”. Awarded by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, the designation was decreed by a 2010 executive order.
11. Some People Claim There Are Ghosts
Talk with locals, and you’ll hear stories about spooky happenings. Boaters have reported hearing church bells ringing from the waters, especially around twilight. The sounds of hunting dogs howling when none seem to be present is attributed to the spirits of dogs who were buried in the area but were not exhumed before the reservoir was filled.
12. Wildlife Abounds
Those who are interested in wildlife will find plenty to hold their attention in the Lake Martin area. There are wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, and a variety of songbirds found nearby. Be aware that copperheads are also common and particularly active during the warmer months.
13. There are Lots of Outdoor Things to Do
Wind Creek State Park offers camping, boating, and swimming opportunities on the lake. If hunting or fishing is more your style, you’ll find plenty to do during the specific seasons. Locals are happy to tell you which hunting or fishing season is coming up.
14. And Lots to Eat
Anyone who wants to dine out has plenty of choices in nearby locations like Alexander City, Dadeville, Eclectic, Wetumpka and Auburn. You can also enjoy the menu at the Kowaliga Restaurant. Ask locals for more information about the best places to eat.
Living in the Lake Martin area is one of the best decisions you could make. Find an agent, look around, and it won’t take long to find the perfect property.
For more information, please contact Shelby Pitts at 334- 300-5259 or by email at shelbypitts2@gmail.com.