LAKE LURE, N.C. — The receding waters of Lake Lure have uncovered a piece of hidden history as the community continues restoration efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Photos shared by the Lake Lure Dock Company revealed the remains of what appears to be a Model T Ford and a 32-foot-long sunken boat, both discovered in the lakebed after water was drained to facilitate necessary repairs. According to the Town of Lake Lure, the water level has dropped to its lowest point since the lake was created.
The Dock Company reported that the antique car was missing several components and showed signs of previous salvage efforts before it was submerged. The partially intact boat, located nearby, retained a small stern motor and remnants of lettering that hinted at its original name.
In addition to the vehicle and boat, the exposed lakebed also revealed concrete steps and a structure resembling scaffolding near the Lake Lure dam. The Dock Company described the steps as “leading to nowhere,” suggesting they once belonged to a long-gone building or residence, now buried under decades of sediment and water.
“These steps likely once belonged to a building or residence — a quiet reminder of what once stood before the water came,” the company wrote in a social media post.
Despite the discoveries, officials have emphasized that the lake remains closed to the public. Access is currently restricted to authorized contractors, town and government personnel, and members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
To reinforce the closure, the Lake Lure Town Council issued a proclamation earlier this month suspending lake access for unauthorized individuals. Violators may face charges classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Images of the resurfaced artifacts were released by the Dock Company, offering a rare glimpse into the lake’s hidden past as restoration work continues.
