Lost to the Depths: The Black Towns That Drowned Beneath Our Lakes

Throughout American history, progress has often come at a steep price, particularly for marginalized communities. Among the most tragic stories are those of predominantly Black towns that were submerged beneath lakes, their histories erased as the waters rose. These towns were once vibrant communities filled with dreams, aspirations, and rich cultural legacies. Today, we delve into the stories of these remarkable places—Oscarville, Kowaliga, Seneca Village, Susanna, and Vanport—shedding light on their significance and the importance of remembering their legacies.#### Oscarville, Georgia: A Community ErasedNestled near the banks of what is now Lake Lanier, Oscarville was a beacon of hope and resilience for African Americans in Forsyth County, Georgia. Established in the late 19th century after the Civil War, Oscarville was more than just a town; it was a vibrant community where families built lives filled with promise. The town boasted schools that educated the youth and churches that served as centers of worship and unity. Businesses flourished, providing vital services and fostering a deep sense of pride among residents.However, this thriving community faced insurmountable challenges. In the 1950s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initiated the construction of Lake Lanier, a project driven by the need for flood control, water supply, and recreational opportunities. The plan, however, came at a devastating cost. In the name of progress, Oscarville's residents were forcibly displaced, and their homes were submerged beneath the waters of the newly created lake.The loss of Oscarville is not just a historical footnote; it is a poignant reminder of how infrastructure projects can obliterate entire communities. Families were uprooted, their lives disrupted, and their history erased. Yet, the spirit of Oscarville lives on. Descendants of the town’s residents continue to honor their ancestors, sharing their stories and advocating for recognition of the community that once thrived there. Events and gatherings aim to keep the memory of Oscarville alive, ensuring that its legacy is not forgotten.#### Kowaliga, Alabama: A Town SubmergedKowaliga, a small yet vibrant community in Elmore County, Alabama, represented the heart and soul of its predominantly Black residents. Known for its close-knit relationships and cultural richness, Kowaliga was a place where families came together to celebrate life, faith, and community. The town had schools, churches, and small businesses that provided essential services and fostered a sense of belonging.But like many other communities, Kowaliga faced the looming threat of progress. In the 1920s, the state of Alabama initiated the construction of the Martin Dam, which would create Lake Martin, one of the largest artificial lakes in the United States. As the waters rose, Kowaliga was submerged, and the lives of its residents were irrevocably changed. The town that once thrived became little more than a memory, lost to the depths of the lake.The flooding of Kowaliga serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by communities for the sake of development. Despite the floodwaters that claimed Kowaliga, the spirit of this community remains. The stories of its residents are passed down through generations, highlighting the importance of cultural preservation and the fight for recognition. Today, descendants of Kowaliga’s residents work tirelessly to ensure that the legacy of their ancestors is honored and remembered.#### Seneca Village: A Hidden HistoryIn the heart of Manhattan, amidst the bustling energy of Central Park, lies the forgotten story of Seneca Village. Established in the early 19th century, Seneca Village was one of New York City's first significant African American communities. It was a thriving neighborhood complete with churches, schools, and homes—an oasis of hope and opportunity in a time when discrimination and inequality were rampant.Seneca Village was home to a diverse population, including free Black individuals, Irish immigrants, and others seeking refuge from the prejudices of the city. The community was characterized by its strong sense of identity and unity, with residents working together to create a better life for themselves and their families. However, in the 1850s, the city government decided to create Central Park, leading to the displacement of Seneca Village's residents through eminent domain.The destruction of Seneca Village was swift and brutal. Families were uprooted, homes were demolished, and a vibrant community was erased in the name of progress. For years, Seneca Village's story was overshadowed, but recent archaeological discoveries have breathed life into its past. Excavations have unearthed evidence of the homes, schools, and churches that once stood in the village, providing a glimpse into the lives of its residents.The legacy of Seneca Village is one of courage and determination, as its residents fought for their rights and representation. Today, the ongoing efforts to uncover and celebrate Seneca Village's history remind us of the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of marginalized communities. The story of Seneca Village serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of those who came before us and the need to acknowledge the sacrifices made in the name of progress.#### Susanna, Alabama: The Lost TownSimilar to Kowaliga, Susanna was a small but significant African American community located near the Coosa River in Alabama. It thrived during a time when opportunities for Black residents were scarce, offering a sense of belonging and hope to its inhabitants. Susanna boasted schools, churches, and a strong sense of community spirit.However, like many towns, Susanna faced the threat of displacement due to infrastructure projects. The construction of the Martin Dam ultimately led to the submersion of Susanna, erasing the lives and stories of its residents. The town that once flourished was lost to the waters, leaving behind only memories and echoes of its vibrant past.Though Susanna may no longer exist on the map, its spirit lives on through the stories shared by its descendants. The legacy of this community underscores the importance of remembering those who came before us and advocating for the recognition of their contributions. Today, efforts to preserve the history of Susanna continue, ensuring that its story is not forgotten.#### Vanport, Oregon: A City of ResilienceVanport, situated between Portland and Vancouver, was established during World War II as a housing project designed to accommodate Black workers who were essential to the war effort. Rapidly growing into one of Oregon's largest cities, Vanport offered a sense of community and belonging for its residents, many of whom faced discrimination elsewhere.However, on May 30, 1948, disaster struck. A dike failure led to catastrophic flooding that wiped out the city, displacing around 18,500 residents, the majority of whom were Black. The loss of Vanport was a devastating blow, as families were uprooted and communities shattered overnight.Vanport's story is one of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The flooding highlighted the challenges of housing inequality and racial discrimination, yet the legacy of its community continues to inspire activism and advocacy for civil rights. The memories of Vanport remind us that even in the face of loss, communities can rise again, stronger than ever.#### Remembering the Lost TownsThese towns—Oscarville, Kowaliga, Seneca Village, Susanna, and Vanport—represent not just places on a map but the enduring spirit of African American communities that faced unimaginable challenges. Their stories deserve to be shared, remembered, and honored. As we reflect on the past, let us ensure that the legacies of these towns and their residents continue to inspire future generations. By sharing their stories, we can raise awareness of the injustices faced by these communities and advocate for the recognition they deserve. In today's world, where discussions about race, history, and community are more important than ever, understanding the past can help shape a better future. The narratives of Oscarville, Kowaliga, Seneca Village, Susanna, and Vanport serve as powerful reminders of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring impact of history on our lives today.#### Take Action and ShareWe encourage you to share this post and spread awareness about these forgotten communities and their rich histories. Let’s keep their stories alive, honoring the resilience of those who came before us and advocating for a more inclusive narrative in our history books. Together, we can ensure that the memories of these towns are never lost to the waters of time. In doing so, we not only honor their past but also empower future generations to recognize the importance of community, resilience, and the fight for justice. Join us in remembering these lost towns, and let their stories inspire us to create a more equitable and just society for all