Lake Massapoag facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Massapoag |
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Lake Massapoag
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 Lake Massapoag
Location in Massachusetts
Lake Massapoag
Location in the United States
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| Location | Sharon, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 42°6′4″N 71°10′37″W / 42.10111°N 71.17694°W |
| Type | natural freshwater lake |
| Primary inflows | springs |
| Primary outflows | Canoe River Massapoag Brook |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 353 acres (143 ha) |
| Average depth | 13 ft (4.0 m) |
| Max. depth | 45 ft (14 m) |
| Surface elevation | 249 ft (76 m) |
Lake Massapoag is a natural lake in Sharon, Massachusetts. It is fed by underground springs. The lake covers about 353 acres (143 ha). Its name, Massapoag, comes from the Algonquin language. It means "large water."
Lake Massapoag is the starting point for two rivers. The Canoe River flows south from the lake. It eventually joins the Taunton River and empties into Narragansett Bay. The Massapoag Brook also starts here. It flows into the Neponset River.
Contents
History of Lake Massapoag
Early Uses of the Lake
In the 1700s, people changed the lake's outlet. They made it deeper to lower the water level. This helped them get bog iron from the lakebed. Bog iron is a type of iron found in swamps. It was used to make metal products.
Later, in the 1800s, Lake Massapoag became important for the ice business. A huge wooden building called an icehouse was built on the eastern side of the lake. Workers would cut ice from the lake in winter. They stored it in the icehouse to sell in warmer months.
Lake Massapoag as a Resort
Sharon, Massachusetts, is higher than nearby towns. It also had a main rail line from Boston. Because of these things and the lake, the area became a small summer resort. Many large hotels, summer camps, and groups of cottages were built.
Temple Adath Sharon was built as a synagogue for summer visitors. The houses around it were once summer cottages. Now, people live in these homes all year round.
Heroic Rescue in 2020
In June 2020, something amazing happened at the lake. Two girls saw a man who was in trouble in the water. He was about 40 yards from the shore. The girls quickly helped him to safety. The town later honored them for their brave actions.
Fun Activities at Lake Massapoag
Town Beach and Swimming
The place where the old icehouse used to be is now a big town beach. The icehouse burned down a long time ago. After that, lots of sand was brought in to create the beach. It is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing.
Sailing and Water Sports
Lake Massapoag is also a great place for sailing. Many people enjoy sailboarding here too. Several sailing teams use the lake for practice. These include the Wheaton College Sailing Team. The Sharon High School Sailing Team and Dover Sherborn High School Sailing Team also train on Lake Massapoag.
