The Enigmatic History of Lake Ronkonkoma!
Lake Ronkonkoma is more than just Long Island’s largest freshwater lake—it’s a place steeped in history, mystery, and intrigue. From its geological origins to its legendary tales, this fascinating lake has been a source of wonder for centuries.
Here are some incredible and quirky facts about this geographic marvel:
- Spanning 243 acres, Lake Ronkonkoma boasts a 2-mile circumference and reaches depths of 65 feet, making it unusually deep for the region.
- Formed by retreating glaciers, it’s classified as a kettle lake.
- The name “Ronkonkoma” comes from an Algonquian word meaning “boundary fishing-lake” and has also appeared as “Raconkumake” and “Raconkamuck” in historical texts.
A Shared Shoreline
- The lake once marked the boundaries of four Native American tribes: Nissequogues, Setaukets, Secatogues, and Unkechaugs. Early Native Americans believed it to be bottomless and rumored it had secret underground connections to nearby waterways like the Great South Bay or Long Island Sound.
- Even today, locals are puzzled by the lake’s erratic water levels, which rise and fall independently of rainfall.
Throwback to 1957! Check out this incredible photo of three lifeguards launching a rescue boat into Lake Ronkonkoma on August 12, 1957. A fascinating glimpse into Long Island’s history! Photo: Copyright holder unknown
Resort Days and Star-Studded Shores
- By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lake Ronkonkoma was a popular summer resort, drawing visitors with its supposed healing waters. Celebrities like Greta Garbo and Jackie Gleason were rumored to vacation here.
The Legend of the Lady of the Lake
- According to local lore, a Native American princess named Tuskawanta, heartbroken over a forbidden love, is said to haunt the waters. Legend claims she drowns one young man each year in search of her lost love. A 32-foot wooden statue of the Lady of the Lake now watches over the area, carved by a local artist to commemorate her story.
The North Beach at Lake Ronkonkoma. Photo: Internet Archive Book Images, No restrictions, via Wikimedia Commons.
Fish Tales and Underwater Ecosystems
- The lake is home to species like Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Carp, and Walleye, among others.
- In a unique project, a Blackhawk helicopter airlifted more than 150 weighted tree stumps into the lake to create artificial reefs, improving the habitat for fish.
Ownership and Modern Mysteries
- Although surrounded by the towns of Smithtown, Islip, and Brookhaven, the lake itself is owned by the Town of Islip.
- A U.S. Government survey revealed that Lake Ronkonkoma acts as a natural well, tapping into Long Island’s underground water table.
Whether it’s the legends, the history, or the natural beauty, Lake Ronkonkoma remains one of Long Island’s most captivating spots.
