Feb 10 Lake Saltonstall

Four days ago (Feb 7) back in 1795, my 79 year old Great Great Great Great Great Great Grandfather, James Plant attempted to walk across frozen Lake Saltonstall. Part way across the ice gave way and he plunged into the icy water and drowned. He lived at the head of the lake, presumably on his farm. I don't know any further details. His burial place is not known so possibly the body was never recovered.

The lake and all land surrounding it is now owned by the New Haven Water Company. It is managed as a reservoir and watershed. Two side of the lake are bordered by steep ridges of traprock. On the southernmost ridge, an immense water tank is situated. I have never seen this before and the only visible part from anywhere else around the lake, is an antenna.   

For a $35 fee you can obtain an access permit good for 3 years, to hike on the NHWC properties. They have about a half dozen properties. The trails on the Lake Saltonstall property are all two track. That might be the case on all their properties. The NHWC maintains a presence on all properties since they are reservoirs. They issue firewood lot permits and some selective cut timbering.

Residential  area on one side of ridge 

On the ridge

Lake side of the ridge

Icy lake