Bow Lake New Hampshire is prominently situated within the Town of Strafford, with a smaller portion of the lake extending into the neighboring town of Northwood.
Geographical Location
This expansive and scenic lake is located in the southeastern part of New Hampshire. While the majority of its waters lie within Strafford, a charming community known for its rural character and natural beauty, a significant section of the lake's boundaries also encompasses parts of Northwood. This dual-town location allows residents and visitors from both areas to access and enjoy its recreational opportunities and picturesque shores.
Historical Context and Formation
Originally, Bow Lake was known as Bow Pond. Its transformation into the much larger body of water seen today occurred in the 1800s when it was dammed. This engineering effort was undertaken to provide essential power for local mills, significantly increasing the pond's size to create the lake. Although the mills have long since ceased operation, the dam remains, preserving the lake's expanded 1,149-acre footprint.
Quick Facts About Bow Lake
For a clear overview of Bow Lake's key characteristics, refer to the table below:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Location | Strafford, New Hampshire |
| Secondary Location | Northwood, New Hampshire |
| Current Size | Approximately 1,149 acres |
| Historical Name | Bow Pond |
| Reason for Growth | Dammed in the 1800s for mill power, increasing its original size |
