Embracing Local History: Part 83 – OWNBEY LAKE IN ITS HEYDAY
Ben Ownbey first introduced his lake to the public in 1898, a place he specifically designed as a recreation center. Many doubted its usefulness or success, but Ben proved them very wrong. The lake of eight acres and the park of 40 acres could not have been more welcomed into the community. Ben, his wife, Mary, and their five children lived on the remaining acres of the Ownbey property and kept a close eye on all the activities.
Source: kirksvilledailyexpress.com