Welcome to Newman Lake, a serene locality steeped in rich history and vibrant stories. Our journey begins in the 1860s when an Englishman named William Newman settled on the southern shores of this picturesque lake. Newman, after whom the lake is named, was a man of adventure. He sailed from Liverpool to New York City in 1858 and joined the US Army, which took him to the Washington Territory. It was here that he first laid eyes on the lake during his service with the Boundary Commission. Newman, along with his wife Elizabeth Barnaby, a woman of Colville Indian descent, farmed the land and raised nine children, leaving a lasting legacy.
In the late 19th century, Newman Lake became a hub of activity. The area was initially explored by traders from the Hudson’s Bay Company, who found the fertile land ideal for gardens. By the 1880s, pioneers transplanted trout from Liberty Lake to Newman Lake, and carp soon followed, carried in buckets by the local residents. Excursion trains from Spokane brought visitors to Moab, a nearby station, from where buses and stages would transport them to the lake.
The early 20th century saw the rise of several hotels around the lake, becoming popular retreats for city dwellers. Among them was W.J. Day’s hotel at the south end and the Gillett Park hotel, later owned by E.J. Chingren, who expanded it with cabins and a new road. The east side of the lake housed the Newman Lake hotel and the grand 26-room Taylor hotel, which unfortunately burned down in 1934.
The lake also witnessed the entrepreneurial spirit of G.L. O’Neil, a rancher who purchased what is now Honeymoon Bay for a mere $45 and later sold it for a substantial sum. It became a lively spot under Ray Hathaway, who added a dance hall, restaurant, and cottages.
Today, Newman Lake remains a cherished spot, with its legacy of settlers, bustling hotels, and natural beauty continuing to draw visitors. It offers a glimpse into the past with the remains of old structures and the stories of those who once called it home.
