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Tiena Jordan
Former archivist, Whakatāne Museum
I have just read in the Beacon an article about Sullivan Lake.
In the article it is stated that it is a “man-made lake”.
Further in the article it is stated that Sir William Sullivan “created the lake”.
The lake is a natural feature. It is an oxbow remaining after the river changed course. If you stop beside the lake on King Street and look right, you will see a hollow stretching away. That is the original riverbed.
In the museum exhibition section of the library is a large map set into the floor.
This map is dated 1867 and clearly shows the original path of the river and the oxbow. Or you can ask to see it at the museum and research centre.