News

Seneca Lake Family Legacy: Protecting Generations of Memories

GENEVA, N.Y. – For the Hansen–Duell family, Seneca Lake has been a summer sanctuary for more than 80 years. It all began in 1940, when Nelson and Florence Hansen sought a peaceful retreat from the bustling Himrod Eagle Hotel. Back then, the shoreline was mostly untouched—quiet stretches of swampy land dotted with a few cottages, and a pristine lake. Nelson and Florence raised a family there, creating memories for generations.

Norman Hansen, who grew up swimming, fishing, and boating here, recalls the simple joys of his youth:
“We’d gather for beach fires, have Sunday picnics with family, fish for rainbow trout, and spend long nights on the lake with lanterns reflecting off the water. One of my earliest jobs was at the boathouse between Rainbow Cove and Showboat—at just 12 or 13, I served soft drinks to people waiting for rides. Those memories have stayed with me my whole life,”said Nelson and Florence’s son Norman.

Over the years, the lake has faced its ups and downs. Norman remembers it as crystal clear and free of seaweed, though storms could stir things up. Today, challenges like invasive species, changing weather patterns, and increased runoff threaten its health. “It’s part of our history, going back to the Ice Age. We get our drinking water from the lake, and we need to keep it healthy,” Norman said.

Now, Norman’s daughter, Kathy Duell, continues the family tradition. Her summers are filled with kayaking along the shore, collecting treasures from the beach—pottery shards, glass, rocks, and fossils—and enjoying bonfires under the stars. Like her father, she remembers childhood beach forts made from lawn chairs and blankets, late-night games, and even a family-organized lumberjack contest.

“The lake has given us a lifetime of memories, and it’s our turn to protect it for those to come,” said Kathy. For the Hansens, protecting Seneca Lake isn’t just about recreation—it’s about preserving a legacy. Kathy highlights the importance of keeping the lake healthy for wildlife, from Purple Martins to ospreys and eagles, while also noting concerns about extreme weather and local development.

Preserving this legacy is central to Pure Waters’ mission. Our programs monitor water quality, restore habitats, and advocate for policies that protect the lake for current and future generations. And we can’t do it without your help.

Join the Hansens in Protecting Seneca Lake

This season, your support can make a real difference. Every gift to our annual appeal contributes directly to keeping Seneca Lake clean, vibrant and healthy, helping families continue to make memories on its shores for generations to come.

By giving today to our year-end appeal, you’re not just donating, you’re joining a multi-generational effort to safeguard one of our most cherished natural treasures. Together, we can ensure that Seneca Lake continues to inspire, refresh, and sustain families for decades ahead.

Learn more about Pure Waters

Learn more about volunteering: https://senecalake.org/volunteer-opportunities/
Learn more about donating: https://senecalake.org/giving/

Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association is a 501(c)3 organization committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting the abundant resources of the largest Finger Lake. Seneca Lake is a source of drinking water, recreation, and economic opportunity for the greater community and its visitors. Our programs and partnerships make it possible to monitor water quality, educate the public, and evaluate threats to ensure the a healthy future for Seneca Lake and those who depend on it.