Rochester Live Cam

Canandaigua Lake is one of the Finger Lakes located in western New York State, USA. The lake has a long and rich history, dating back to the indigenous peoples who lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlers arrived.

The name "Canandaigua" is derived from the Seneca Indian word "Kah-nan-dah-qua," which means "chosen spot" or "the chosen place." The Seneca people were one of the Five Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy, and they inhabited the area around Canandaigua Lake for centuries.

In the late 1700s and early 1800s, European settlers began to move into the area. They established farms, built homes and businesses, and developed the town of Canandaigua at the northern end of the lake. The town became an important center of commerce, with a thriving agricultural industry and a busy port for shipping goods.

During the 19th century, Canandaigua Lake became a popular destination for tourists and vacationers, who came to enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities of the area. Hotels and resorts were built along the lake, and steamboats offered tours and transportation to visitors.