Lake residents sharing memories

WINSTED — Members of the Highland Lake Watershed Association are asking area residents to share with them their lakeside memories and photos as the group assembles a special book commemorating the association’s 50th anniversary this year.

The book, which has the working title of “Reflections,†will feature dozens of first-person accounts of life at the lake from those who live, or have lived, along its shoreline.

“We are also looking for stories from those who have never lived on the lake, but who have an affection for it,†Shirley Allshouse, the association member chairing the book project committee, said.

The concept is based on a similar publication the residents of New Hartford’s West Hill Lake developed. Once the book is completed, it will be available for purchase from the association.

Although the group expects most of the stories included in the book to be written by the contributors themselves, committee project members are also available to work with those who feel they need a little more editorial guidance, Allshouse said.

The project, which kicked off in April, has already fielded more than 30 submissions.

“And we expect the story collection phase to continue into next summer,†Allshouse said.

Once the collection phase is completed, the committee will then move on to compiling the stories and images, and then finally editing all the material. The project is not expected to be completed until sometime later next year.

“We don’t want to rush it. If we rush it, it just wouldn’t be fair to those who want time to express themselves,†Allshouse said.

Some of the topics the committee is looking for contributions about include seasonal stories, ski and sailing clubs, neighborhood gatherings and family reunions, summer rituals and wildlife at dock or door.

The committee is also interested in memories that focus on places like Toto’s, Gert & Carl’s (now Spillway Grill), Woodland Park, the Highland Lake Pavilion, as well as those who have come and gone at the lake.

In addition, Allshouse said the group is also looking to include maps, post cards, drawings and other visuals in the book.

“We’re also getting a lot of individual pictures,†she said.

To submit a story or photo — or for more information — contact committee chairman Shirley Allshouse at 860-379-6714; e-mail sallshouse6714@charter.net; or mail a submission to 124 East Wakefield Blvd., Winsted, CT 06098.

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