Providing water and power, recreation and scenic beauty are some of the many benefits Lake Hartwell offers Andersonians and those across Upstate South Carolina.
Anderson area residents have been enjoying the man-made reservoir that has become one of the Southeast’s most popular recreation lakes for decades, but its relationship accelerated 12 years ago when the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (BASS) brought its Bassmaster Classic to Lake Hartwell. In the past six years alone, fishing tournaments held at Green Pond Landing have had a local economic impact of $60.3 million, according to Anderson County officials.
While many know the best landings and lures for the 56,000-acre lake, they may not be as familiar with the lore.
Lake Hartwell was named in honor of Nancy Hart, Georgia’s most famous American Revolutionary War heroine. Nicknamed “Wahatche” or “Woman of War,” Hart helped keep the territory of Georgia out of British control.
While her husband was away fighting in the war, Hart would sneak into nearby Tory camps dressed as a man and report back what she had learned to Patriot forces.
She is believed to have joined her fellow Patriots in The Battle of Kettle Creek on February 4, 1779 near present day Washington, Georgia, where 400 Patriots in a surprise attack defeated a force of Loyalists twice their number.
Lake Hartwell, Hart County GA and The Hartwell Dam all are named to honor Nancy Hart’s spirit of patriotism.
Video courtesy of Anderson County Media Department.
