Chautauqua Lake

I have had a few requests to paint a map of Chautauqua Lake. Before I paint a map of a lake, I always do some research on the lake to get a feel of the area.  Here’s what I have discovered. Chautauqua Lake is a beautiful lake. Located in western New York between the city of Jamestown and the village of Maryville, Chautauqua Lake is about 17 miles long and 2 miles wide. It is shaped like a finger lake; however it is not considered a finger lake. Interesting, if it were considered a finger lake, then it would be a thumb because it runs perpendicular to the eastern lakes.

I find it fascinating the meaning of lake names. Chautauqua has several intriguing meanings and the one that I think is most interesting is, Bag Tied in the Middle, which is referring to the narrow area about half way down the lake. The name comes from an Indian Tribe in the area.

There are many recreational activities at the lake such as boating, fishing and tourism. Chautauqua Lake is an excellent muskellunge lake. A major hangout is Chautauqua Institution, which has many shops, restaurants and live entertainment. Also, many boats can be found at Sandy Bottoms and Long Point State Park.

Here’s the finished décor map of Chautauqua Lake. I don't hide snapping turtles, but I do hide a tiny mermaid/fish in the waters of all my lake map paintings that folks love to search for. I call my maps treasured maps because most folks have that special body of water that they treasure. These maps make great gifts for the lake house owner, lake lover, or fisherman. I have over two hundred on my website that can be purchased right from the site, or I can do custom and personalizes lake, river or bay maps, too. If you would like to see more and read about my treasured maps go to LeoMaps.com. 

"Remember, Life is short, get away from the big screen and get on a big stream."