I’ve been looking into the history of East Side Lake. Several accounts vary so I’m going to give you broad strokes of the story and fill in details in the following weeks.

In the early history of Austin, a dam was built on Dobbins Creek, creating Beaver Lake. (Some sources name Alex Campbell as the dam builder.)

In 1892, a flood broke the dam and left a swamp area where the lake had been.

Neighborhood kids used the creek for swimming, especially where it passed through Slavin’s pasture.

According to a 1956 article in the Austin Herald, Jacob Herzog was inspired to recreate Beaver Lake when he read an article stating that a lake was worth $1 million to a city’s economy in 1910. Herzog began pursuing the idea with local authorities.

There were some difficulties because of opponents to the project. Eventually, footing were poured for a new dam. Work was done by men on federal WPA work programs and was completed in 1937.

All accounts agree on how the newly formed lake was filled with water. Herzog told doubters, “We will let the good Lord take care of that.” One evening it rained and water has flowed over the dam ever since.

July 4: Office closed

July 18: Summer Games Event. The HHH will offer an afternoon of fun including dessert, door prizes and game play. Tables of 4 will play bridge, 500, dominos, mahjong or any game. All participants will win a prize. Cost is $9 per person. Please register with the HHH office at 507-433-4243.

Lost and Found

We have many items left at the HHH over the last several months. If you left one of these items, please come pick them up at the HHH office. Size L Tek Gear coat, size XL London Fog jacket, Thinsulate gloves, size L fleece jacket, size L Eddie Bauer jacket, size 14-16 cardigan sweater, two stocking caps, thermal mug, umbrella, bracelet, camera case, cake pan, sunglasses, iPod, reading glasses, memory stick, St. Anthony medal.