Lake Wallenpaupack, a hub of activity for kayakers, swimmers, and anglers, recently marked a century of existence. Yet, its significance runs deeper than the surface, steeped in history and innovation.
“Beneath its surface is a remarkable story of history, innovation and community,” expressed Debbie Gillette, executive director of The Chamber of the Northern Poconos.
A gathering of officials, business, and tourism representatives commemorated the 100th anniversary of Pennsylvania’s second-largest lake. The lake’s origin dates back to the early 1920s when the region was primarily rural. In 1924, the construction of a significant hydroelectric project began, forever transforming the landscape.
Elaine Herzog from the Downtown Hawley Partnership reminisced about learning to swim and ice skate on the lake, stating, “The big lake is a big deal for this area, and it has been since its construction. One hundred years is without a doubt a significant milestone.”
Stream of Swift and Slow Waters
The Wallenpaupack River Valley was once home to the Lenape people, now part of the Delaware Tribe of Indians. The name “Wallenpaupack” comes from the Lenape language, meaning “stream of swift and slow waters,” according to Gillette.
In the 1920s, the Pennsylvania Power and Light Company envisioned generating power by damming the Wallenpaupack River, consequently creating the lake as a reservoir for hydroelectric power. This ambitious project required relocating the entire town of Wilsonville, including homes, businesses, and a cemetery.
Historically, the town was named after James Wilson, a Declaration of Independence signer and U.S. Supreme Court judge, who owned the 12,500-acre Wallenpaupack Manor.
Laura Engles, president of the Wallenpaupack Historical Society, mentioned, “Some people were upset about that, but other people saw the possibility for tourism.” Her grandparents moved to the lake in 1926, starting a small business that became a prominent resort.
Power on the Grid
The Wallenpaupack dam project, which cost approximately $5 million in 1923 (about $98 million today), spans 5,700 acres and stretches 13 miles with 52 miles of shoreline. It continues to serve as a reservoir for hydroelectric energy, powering approximately 40,000 homes. Brookfield Renewable North America currently operates the Wallenpaupack Hydroelectric Facility.
Amy Burnett, director of stakeholder relations for the company, explained the electricity generation process: water is drawn from the reservoir through a 3.5-mile pipeline into generating units, creating electricity that is discharged into the Lackawaxen River. The power feeds into the PJM market, supplying energy to 13 states and Washington, D.C.
Electric Economy
Besides power generation, Lake Wallenpaupack significantly contributes to regional economic benefits. Chris Barrett, CEO of the Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau, noted that the lake attracts visitors from New York and Philadelphia, contributing $7.2 billion economically to the region.
Pike County Commissioner Matthew Osterberg remarked, “It’s an economic engine, a recreational treasure, and a defining part of our region’s identity. It supports local businesses, tourism, jobs, and the quality of life that makes Pike County and our neighboring communities such special places to live and visit.”
The lake also supports ecosystems and provides flood mitigation, according to Herzog.
A ‘Treasured Destination’
In celebration of its centennial, the historical society has compiled a book detailing the lake’s history, from the Ice Age to the present impact of indigenous peoples and early settlers.
“Over the past century, Lake Wallenpaupack has grown into a treasured destination for recreation and tourism,” Gillette said. “And while the lake continues to serve its original purpose of generating power, its greatest impact may be the connections it has created among people and communities.”
Festivities marking the anniversary included boat tours, live entertainment, and community gatherings.
