Lake Freeman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Freeman |
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 Lake Freeman
Location in Indiana
Lake Freeman
Location in the United States
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| Location | White County, Indiana, United States |
| Coordinates | 40°41′34″N 86°45′32″W / 40.6927°N 86.7589°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Tippecanoe River |
| Primary outflows | Tippecanoe River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 12 mi (19 km) |
| Surface area | 1,500 acres (610 ha) |
| Average depth | 16 ft (4.9 m) |
| Max. depth | 45 ft (14 m) |
| Surface elevation | 610 ft (190 m) |
Lake Freeman is a large, man-made lake, also known as a reservoir, located near Monticello, Indiana. It was created in 1925 when the Oakdale Dam was finished. Lake Freeman and its nearby partner, Lake Shafer, are often called the Twin Lakes. This area is a very popular spot for summer fun and activities.
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Creating Lake Freeman: The Oakdale Dam
Lake Freeman was formed by building the Oakdale Dam across the Tippecanoe River. Construction of this dam started in 1923 and was completed just two years later, in 1925. The dam is made of earth and stands 58 feet high. It helps control the water flow of the Tippecanoe River.
Who Owns and Manages the Dam?
The Oakdale Dam is owned by the Northern Indiana Public Service Company. This company manages the dam, which helps create and maintain Lake Freeman. The dam plays a key role in the lake's existence and the surrounding area.
What Makes Lake Freeman Special?
Lake Freeman is about 1,500 acres in size, which is like 1,500 football fields! It has a shoreline that stretches for 50 miles. The water depth in the lake varies quite a bit. It can be as shallow as 7 feet in some spots and as deep as 45 feet near the Oakdale Dam.
A More Private Lake Experience
Compared to Lake Shafer, which has more businesses and public areas, Lake Freeman is known for being more private. Many homes and cabins are built along its shores, making it a popular place for people to live or have vacation homes.
The Famous Madam Carroll Boat
One of the most famous sights on Lake Freeman is the Madam Carroll. This large boat is a pleasure excursion vessel, meaning it takes people on fun trips around the lake. It's 36 feet wide and 135 feet long, offering a unique way to see the lake.
How Did Lake Freeman Get Its Name?
Lake Freeman was named after Roger Morse Freeman. He was a civil engineer from Rhode Island who worked on many important projects. His father, John R. Freeman, was also a very famous engineer around the world, and Roger started his career working with him.
