Deowongo Island facts for kids
West side of Deowongo Island in summer 2018
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 Deowongo Island
Location in New York
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Canadarago Lake |
| Coordinates | 42°48′58″N 74°59′56″W / 42.81611°N 74.99889°W, 42°48′54″N 75°00′00″W / 42.81500°N 75.00000°W |
| Highest elevation | 1,302 ft (396.8 m) |
| Administration | |
 United States |
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| State |  New York |
| County | Otsego |
| Towns | Otsego, Richfield |
Deowongo Island is a special place and the only island left on Canadarago Lake in Otsego County, New York. Its unique name, "Deowongo," comes from the language of the Oneida Iroquois nation. It means "place of hearing." This name was given because of a cool echo you could hear from the island. This echo was very clear before many trees were cut down around the lake's shores. The island became a protected area in October 2012. Today, it is open for everyone to visit and enjoy.
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Discovering Deowongo Island
Deowongo Island is a small but important piece of nature. It stands out because it's the only island remaining in Canadarago Lake. This lake is located in Otsego County, which is in the beautiful state of New York.
What's in the Name?
The name "Deowongo" has a fascinating history. It comes from the Oneida language. The Oneida people are one of the original Native American nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. They lived in this area for a very long time.
The Echoing Island
The name "place of hearing" makes a lot of sense. Before many trees were cleared from the land around Canadarago Lake, sounds would bounce off the island. This created a strong echo that people could easily notice. It was like the island itself was listening and talking back! This natural echo made Deowongo Island a memorable spot for the Oneida people.
Protecting a Special Place
In October 2012, Deowongo Island was officially protected. This means that steps were taken to keep the island safe and natural. Protecting the island helps to preserve its unique environment. It also makes sure that its history and natural beauty can be enjoyed by future generations.
Open for Everyone
Today, Deowongo Island is open to the public. This means you can visit and explore this special island. It's a great place to connect with nature and learn about the area's history. Being open to the public allows many people to experience the quiet beauty of the island.
