Most People Have No Idea This Underwater City In Ohio Even Exists
Most people are familiar with Ohio’s ghost towns. These former communities have long been abandoned, although it’s possible to see remnants of what once was. Fewer people realize, however, that one of Ohio’s abandoned towns lies underwater. The town of Laceyville, established in the 1800s, now sits underwater at the site of Tappan Lake. Here’s more on the unique and fascinating history of this long-forgotten abandoned town in Ohio.
Also known as Tappan Reservoir, Tappan Lake is a 2,350-acre body of water located in Harrison County. It's part of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District.
The lake is beautiful, and on a warm, clear day, there are few places more inviting for a picnic or leisurely boat ride. And yet, underneath the water lies the remnants of a long-forgotten town known as Laceyville.
The community was originally named for Major John S. Lacey. A post office was first established in Laceyville in 1850 but was discontinued by 1907.
In the early 1930s, the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District decided to dam the Little Stillwater Creek near Tappan. The residents of Laceyville were offered a small sum of money to relocate.
According to some accounts, however, some weren't able to move their belongings before the flooding began.
Throughout the Great Depression, the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District provided hundreds of jobs in the creation of the 14 dams that are in the MWCD system today, one of which is Tappan Reservoir.
Did you know about Tappan Lake? What are your thoughts on this abandoned town in Ohio? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
Address: Tappan Lake, Ohio, USA
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A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
