Parks and Recreation: Lake Shawnee: History

Lake Shawnee is operated by Shawnee County Parks and Recreation. Parks and Recreation’s purpose is to provide a wide range of recreational opportunities to the residents of Shawnee County and to the travelers from all across the United States. Lake Shawnee was built as a Work Progress Administration project. Construction began in 1935 and was completed on September 3, 1939, when over 5,000 fishermen celebrated the opening day.

Over one million users annually enjoy the beauty and diversity of Lake Shawnee.

Work Progress Administration Dam Construction

Workers add rock layers to the dam in this photo of the construction site taken in the late 1930’s.