History

The Village of Otter Lake is situated in Marathon township in Lapeer County . The lake received its name September 29, 1838, when Andrew McArthur of Columbiaville, who was very fond of hunting, visited the lake. He saw five otter swimming in it, one of which he shot, hence the name Otter Lake . The land upon which the village is built was originally owned by Garritt Smith, and was part of a tract of 6,000 acres of pine land. This tract was purchased by C.B. Benson of Oswego , New York , for the purpose of manufacturing the pine into lumberFounded in 1873 our town has a rich history waiting to be explored. Visit our Historical Museum to see artifacts and learn about our heritage. Any information, stories, pictures, artifacts or Otter Lake History are welcome. The museum is located inside the old fire station near the lake.