The following is excerpted from The Connecticut Magazine, Vol. V., June 1899 by Israel Foote Loomis

The first settlers were attracted [to East Hampton] by the fine mill site, or water privilege, at the outlet of Lake Pocotopaug, where a forge had been erected in 1743. Of the beautiful Lake Pocotopaug I shall say but little. It equals in itself, and its surrounding, any of the fine lakes of Litchfield County, as Waramaug in Washington, and Twin Lakes in Salisbury, or Highland Lake in Winsted; and I put in the modest claim for it, that it is not surpassed by any lake in New England for clearness of its waters and the beauty of its scenery. It is about nine miles in circumference, averaging about ten feet in depth, has two most charming islands, and is fed by springs entirely. Rain storms have very little effect in changing its depth. There is evidence that the land and its islands were favorite places of resort for the native Indians, probably of the Mattabessett tribe. It has always been a favorite resort for fishing. There is a legend connected with the lake which passed from the aborigines to the white settlers hereabout, and handed down from generation to generation, to the effect that a beautiful Indian maiden sacrificed herself here by direction of the Great Spirit, on the promise to her that no persons should ever be drowned in its waters.

Two hotels here, one the Pocotopaug House, kept for yeas by the late William Glover Buell, now kept by his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Caroline B. Buell, the other, the Lakeview House is finally situated near the shore of the lake. This hotel for thirteen seasons has been one of the factors in drawing summer visitors to East Hampton. It was formerly conducted by Capt. D.D. BROWN and is now under the management of Frank M. Weller. Easily accessible, close enough to the activities of life for convenience, and yet far enough away to afford absolute rest and quiet, the Lake View House presents many attractions. It is a mile from the station on a road leading north from the village and is nestled close beside the water at the foot of the hills which form its western barrier. Eighty feet of lawn connects the broad veranda of the house with the water's edge where a cozy pavilion furnishes a breezy lounging place and a convenient landing for boats. The water supply is of remarkable purity, a wind engine supplying each floor with pure water from the lake. Within 200 feet of the house is a smooth, shelving beach which offers and ideal place for still water bathing. The lake furnishes endless entertainment. Save row boats are furnished in abundance for the free use of guests of the house. Fishing is a favorite pastime, the lake being well stocked with black bass, pickerel and perch.