Built in 1915, the Mattamuskeet Lodge was once the world’s largest pumping station. In 1980, the lodge was placed on the National Historic Register and is the main attraction for the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. The Lodge and the Mattamuskeet Lake date back to when several tribes of Indians inhabited the Hyde County area. In 1911, investors wanted to drain the lake and build the community of New Holland and farm its rich lands. The lodge was able to pump 20,000 gallons of water per second. After millions of dollars were spent, the investors found the idea impractical and abandoned it. The land has now been turned into a waterfowl and wildlife sanctuary. Many local non-profit organizations have joined forces to restore the lodge and adapt it for research and education focusing on migratory waterfowl.
