March program: History of Lake Norman

Cowans Ford Dam on the Catawba River created Lake Norman when it was completed in 1963. (Duke Energy photo)

Davidson Historical Society's next program takes a look at the "History of Lake Norman," with a pair of experts who have researched the lake. 

The program is Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 4pm at the Bailey's Glen Clubhouse, 12100  Meetinghouse Drive, Cornelius.  

Lake Norman was constructed between 1959 and 1964 after the Catawba River was dammed at Cowans Ford. Created by Duke Energy's construction of the Cowans Ford hydroelectric dam, the lake has become a destination for fishing and other recreation and its lakefront the site of luxury homes. But how did it come to be? And what did its waters cover down below?   

Our panelists for this discussion are Chuck McShane, author of "A History of Lake Norman: Fish Camps to Ferraris," and Jan Blodgett, a historian and the retired archivist at Davidson College, who has researched pre-lake history of the region. 

Before Lake Norman, the region along the Catawba River was filled with farms, villages, churches and even graveyards. When the lake was flooded in 1963, much of that was buried. Few people remain who remember pre-lake days. 

"So many people have moved to Lake Norman over the past couple of decades, but many may not know its history. We're fortunate to have two of the top experts to help tell those stories," said David Boraks, president of the historical society and panel moderator.     

This program is free, but registration is required at DavidsonHistoricalSociety.org/programs

Davidson Historical Society promotes an understanding and appreciation of the history of Davidson, North Carolina and its surrounding area. The society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supported by memberships and donations.