History of Lake Ronkonkoma Told Through Photographs

Nov. 9, 2011 - PRLog -- The newest addition to Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series is Lake Ronkonkoma from local authors Keith Oswald and Dale Spencer. The book boasts more than 200 vintage images and memories of days gone by.

Lake Ronkonkoma, located in the center of Long Island, became a summer destination for wealthy New Yorkers with the arrival of the railroad in 1843. Luxurious hotels were built around the lakeshore during the 1890s to attract visitors. People would utilize the sparkling waters of the lake for boating, fishing, and swimming. At night, hotel guests could dance, gamble in the casino, and enjoy sumptuous meals.

By the 1920s, as more people could afford automobiles, beach pavilions began decorating the shoreline of Lake Ronkonkoma. Thousands of people were flocking to this summer paradise. Canoeing, camping, dancing to live music, beauty contests, and fireworks entertained visitors. The area continued to grow in popularity until World War II when gas rationing limited travel. By the 1950s, Lake Ronkonkoma had become a town populated by year-round residents.

Highlights of Lake Ronkonkoma:
•   A portion of the profits from the sale of the book are being donated to the Lake Ronkonkoma History Society.
•   There are several historical pictures of the beach pavilions that once dotted the shoreline of the lake.
•   The book features pictures and a brief history of two major organizations, VFW and the American Legion Hall, paying tribute to the men and woman that fought to protect the United States in WWI and WWII.
•   The authors feature many summer activities that people would enjoy at the lake in the early 20th century.

Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com or
(888)-313-2665.

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With more than 7,500 local history titles published to date, Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States. Widely recognized sepia books feature hundreds of vintage historical images.