Lake Mendota [origin of place name] | Wisconsin Historical Society

Historical Essay

Lake Mendota [origin of place name]

Lake Mendota [origin of place name] | Wisconsin Historical Society
Dictionary of Wisconsin History.

Name suggested by Frank Hudson, a surveyor - signifies "great." Name legalized by legislature Feb. 14, 1855. mde = "lake" and ota = "great" in the Dakota language.

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[Source: Card file at the WHS Library reference desk]