The History of Lake Murray and the Lake Murray Dam

The History of Lake Murray and the Lake Murray Dam

Lake Murray, located in Lexington County, South Carolina is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. The lake was named after William S. Murray, the chief engineer behind the hydroelectric dam project initiated by the Lexington Water Power Company. Construction of the dam took place from 1927 to 1930, and Dominion Energy assumed ownership in 2019.

The creation of Lake Murray flooded approximately 100,000 acres of land and created about 650 miles of shoreline. This massive project displaced over 5,000 families and submerged numerous communities. Among the structures affected were six schools, three churches, and 193 graveyards containing more than 2,300 graves – most of which were relocated, though some remain beneath the lake.

During World War II, Lake Murray served as a training ground for B-25 Mitchell bomber pilots from a nearby Army Air Base. Several aircrafts crashed during exercises, including a B-25C bomber that went down in 1943 and was recovered in 2005. This bomber is now displayed at the Southern Museum of Flight in Birmingham, Alabama.

In response to seismic safety concerns, a backup dam made of roller compacted concrete was built in 2005 at the base of the original dam to enhance structural stability. Today, Lake Murray continues to generate hydroelectric power and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities.

Sources:

"The History of Lake Murray." Lake Murray Country, 21 June 2022. https://www.lakemurraycountry.com/the-history-of-lake-murray/

Posted :  6/15/26 - Monday, June 15th