Connecticut's Kaleidoscope of Color Lights Up Candlewood Lake

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Rocky River Valley was a serene and thriving agricultural community situated at the base of the Berkshire Mountains. However, on July 15, 1926, a pivotal decision was made that would permanently alter the valley's landscape. On this day, the Connecticut Light and Power Company Board of Directors approved a project to create a lake intended for electricity generation. The initiative progressed swiftly as the company acquired land in the valley and constructed several dams to hold back water; notably, one dam at the northern end stood 100 feet tall and stretched 952 feet wide. By February 25, 1928,

In 1926, as the initiative to establish a pumped water storage reservoir and construct the Rocky River plant moved forward, all valley land below the 440-foot elevation mark was designated for lake development. The company negotiated with the 35 families residing in the flood zone. Despite possessing eminent domain authority, they made fair offers based on pre-lake valuations. It's doubtful that the residents or the company anticipated the future value of land adjacent to what would eventually become an expansive lake. Only a handful of individuals declined to sell, submerging some properties in the newly formed lake.

Approximately 5,520 acres of lake basin had to be prepared, including four ponds: Squantz, Barse, and Creek in New Fairfield, and Neversink overlapping Danbury-New Fairfield. This pond never sank but was drowned by the lake. The clearing operation involved demolishing or relocating more than 100 buildings, including schools and churches. Gravestones and remains were removed for reburial by workers for a fee of $1 per body. Click on the CLA website for a more in-depth description of Candlewood Lake's history.

Mindy and I have been fortunate enough to own a boat on the lake for 37 years. We learned that a boat is like taking a yoga class without all the twisting and bending. Take a look at the rainbow of colors that surround Candlewood Lake every October.