Lake Lanier, Georgia's sparkling jewel, isn't just about boating and recreation; it's a place steeped in a fascinating, and sometimes controversial, history. Created in the 1950s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the lake's construction involved damming the Chattahoochee River. This undertaking submerged the town of Oscarville and several other communities.
The creation of Lake Lanier displaced over 250 families and several cemeteries, a poignant reminder of progress's cost. Rumors and legends surrounding the submerged towns persist, contributing to the lake's mystique. Today, Lake Lanier is a major recreational destination, but remembering its past is crucial to understanding its present. Exploring Lake Lanier history provides a compelling look into the region's development and the lives forever changed by its creation.