The Twin Lakes were important landscape features and resource areas for the Native Americans of the Weatogue area. The lakes were also known as Hokonkamok (Washinee, the southernmost lake) and Panaheconnok (Washining). “Washinee” and “Washining” are not believed to be original Eastern Algonqquian names. Archaeological evidence indicates that Native American settlement began near the lakes more than 5,000 years ago. The lakeshore may have had spiritual significance as a burial place. On the west side of the lakes, the steep escarpment of the Taconic Range is visible. This ridge forms a natural barrier between the Housatonic River Valley and the greater Hudson Valley, to the west.

Thoughts to consider as you stand upon this place: These lakes probably were places of high spiritual value to the Native American people of the Upper Housatonic Valley.

Contributor: Timothy Binzen

•   Binzen, Timothy L. 1997. Mohican Lands and Colonial Corners: Weataug, Wechquadnach and the Connecticut Colony 1675‐1750. M.A. Thesis, Department of Anthropology, University of Connecticut, Storrs.

•   Sanford, I. W. & Co. 1899. Town Plan of Salisbury Conn. (map)