Lake now a historical site
Marion County officials received formal notification this week that the county park and lake has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The official date was June 6. It was automatically placed on the Register of Historic Kansas Places.
Constructed in the late 1930s by a black Civilian Conservation Corps unit, the 302-acre site includes a 153-acre lake, earthen dam, camping, picnicking, and swimming areas, and boat ramps. Walkers and wildlife viewers also use the site.
It is popular with anglers, and produced the state-record spotted bass, 4.7 pounds, in 1977.
At one time the site included a variety of recreational activities. Remnants of a golf course, skating rink, and skeet shooting range are in place.
Listing assures a review of federal projects that might adversely affect the character of the historic property. In addition, no state or political subdivision — or private entity received financial assistance from state or local government — can undertake a project that alters the property until the State Historic Preservation Office has reviewed it.
Listing makes the county eligible for state grants to preserve elements of the park and lake
