Nestled beneath the tranquil waters of Lake Norman lie little-known treasures waiting to be discovered. Beyond the surface beauty of the lake, there are entire submerged towns that hold a rich history and a unique charm that’s all been forgotten.
One such hidden gem is the submerged town of Mill Town and Long Island Mill. Once a thriving community originally settled in the 1800s, Long Island was submerged during the construction of Lake Norman in the 1950s.The village had homes, stores, and even its own personal post office. Very few houses were moved before the lake was formed, and many of them were demolished. The mill was also demolished when the village had to relocate. However, the ruins of this mill, demolished homes, and other full smaller buildings still lay under the lake to this day.
Long Island Cotton Mill and Mill Town
Today, the remnants of this once-vibrant town can be glimpsed by intrepid divers, revealing sunken structures and remnants frozen in time beneath the lake’s serene waters. These underwater towns not only provide a glimpse into the past but also serve as artificial reefs, fostering diverse aquatic life and making Lake Norman not just a haven for water enthusiasts but also a thriving habitat beneath the surface.
While Lake Norman is celebrated for its recreational offerings, taking the time to explore the submerged towns unveils a hidden layer of history and ecology. So, the next time you venture to this picturesque lake, consider delving beneath the surface to discover the lesser-known towns that silently contribute to the charm of Lake Norman.
