Lake Properties: Diving Beneath the Surface of the Lost Black Towns in America

It’s not just Lake Lanier — a history of the erasure of Black success lies beneath the surface. 

In our June 4 Mindful Discussion, we unpacked the Lake Properties that have roots in successful Black towns in American history.

The most famous of which, Lake Lanier, is the most symbolic example of this phenomenon. Before Lanier existed, there was Oscarville: an early 1900s town where Black autonomy thrived and the beginnings of generational success were being built. After allegations of rape, its inhabitants were forced to flee and the town was burned down. The allegations were likely a dispersal tactic to get rid of Black inhabitants, because shortly after, Lake Lanier was created over the wreckage of Oscarville.

In recent news, Lake Lanier has continued to be at the center of the spotlight after several deaths reported on the property — from mysterious incidents to freak accidents — leading some to believe that it is haunted. In fact, the lake has inspired its own thriller movie surrounding its dark history, titled Lanier (2023).

Despite its media presence and reputation, it still has thousands of visitors weekly, many of whom likely do not know of the wreckage lying just beneath the water. For this reason, historical education is an important tool we foster in this Mindful Discussion to conquer ignorance.

Not only does Lake Lanier have a Black-owned history, but so does Lake Martin in Alabama. In what once was the town of Kowaliga, Alabama, Lake Martin now spans thousands of acres. Kowaliga was home to the first Black-owned railroad, as well as a Black school called the Kowaliga Academic & Industrial Institute.

Just northeast of Montgomery, Lake Martin is a treasured reservoir in the state of Alabama. After William E. Benson (creator of the town’s railroad) passed away, Kowaliga was destroyed so that Lake Martin could be created.

(Left: WIlliam E. Benson of Kowaliga, AL.)

The list doesn’t stop here; whether it be Delta Park, in 1940s Oregon, or Seneca Village in 1800s New York City, Black towns have a history of being erased and forgotten in America.

To honor the legacy and history of these lost towns is to be conscious of what once existed before us. Whenever engaging with any kind of captured land — whether it be stolen Native American land, these destroyed towns, or settlements — it is important to acknowledge the damaging history behind it and make sure it is never repeated. All of the human struggle is connected, no matter what background you come from. Take these stories as a lesson to live your life with empathy and compassion, and remember to Be Mindful of your impact, Be Purposeful in what you do, and Be Positive in what you say.

Best,

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