Blydenburgh Destroyed

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This is what's left of a lake I have fished for over 60 years. It will take a lot to bring it back. The damn broke through and emptied much of the lake. Very sad. I caught many big bass in there including my only ten pounder. This place was a paradise before the county took it over.

Was this caused by the tremendous downpours last night, George?
I saw some pictures of horrific flooding in Rocky Point on a street where a good friend lives.

Historical Background​

• Creation and Early Use: The lake was originally created by the Blydenburgh family in 1798. Isaac Blydenburgh, along with his cousins Joshua Smith II and Caleb Smith II, constructed a dam at the headwaters of the Nissequogue River, where three streams converged. This led to the formation of the lake, which initially served as a reservoir for a milling complex. The complex included a grist mill and a saw mill, with a fulling mill added in 1827. These mills were central to the local economy, processing grain and lumber until the early 20th century.
• Ownership Changes: The property was later acquired by David and Mary Weld in 1939. The Weld family maintained the land until it was sold to Suffolk County in 1965. Subsequently, the area was designated as Blydenburgh County Park in 1969, preserving its historical and natural significance.

Modern Significance​

• Recreational Use: Today, Blydenburgh Lake is a popular site for fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It is known for its scenic beauty and is considered one of the least developed and most picturesque ponds on Long Island. The lake is noted for its largemouth bass population, making it a favored spot for anglers.
• Preservation and Access: Blydenburgh County Park, where the lake is situated, encompasses 627 acres and features trails, historic structures, and natural habitats. The park is open to the public for various recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The historic district within the park showcases the remnants of the Blydenburgh family's milling complex, offering guided tours and educational opportunities.

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This is what's left of a lake I have fished for over 60 years. It will take a lot to bring it back. The damn broke through and emptied much of the lake. Very sad. I caught many big bass in there including my only ten pounder. This place was a paradise before the county took it over.

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Yes Mike. The dam on the south end of the lake broke through. Now, that is a place I've cherished for over 60 years. Anytime I needed to get away, it would be right up the street. An Oasis in the center of a traffic jam. Here's a piece of Long Island history on the subject:

Historical Background​

• Creation and Early Use: The lake was originally created by the Blydenburgh family in 1798. Isaac Blydenburgh, along with his cousins Joshua Smith II and Caleb Smith II, constructed a dam at the headwaters of the Nissequogue River, where three streams converged. This led to the formation of the lake, which initially served as a reservoir for a milling complex. The complex included a grist mill and a saw mill, with a fulling mill added in 1827. These mills were central to the local economy, processing grain and lumber until the early 20th century.
• Ownership Changes: The property was later acquired by David and Mary Weld in 1939. The Weld family maintained the land until it was sold to Suffolk County in 1965. Subsequently, the area was designated as Blydenburgh County Park in 1969, preserving its historical and natural significance.

Modern Significance​

• Recreational Use: Today, Blydenburgh Lake is a popular site for fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It is known for its scenic beauty and is considered one of the least developed and most picturesque ponds on Long Island. The lake is noted for its largemouth bass population, making it a favored spot for anglers.
• Preservation and Access: Blydenburgh County Park, where the lake is situated, encompasses 627 acres and features trails, historic structures, and natural habitats. The park is open to the public for various recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The historic district within the park showcases the remnants of the Blydenburgh family's milling complex, offering guided tours and educational opportunities.

Overall, Welds Lake holds a rich history as part of the Blydenburgh family's legacy and continues to be a cherished natural and recreational resource in Smithtown, New York.