In 1952, Clarence Kettler founded Kettler Brothers, Incorporated, alongside his two brothers, Milton and Charles. With a vision of creating a unique community, the Kettler brothers went on to develop Montgomery Village. Lake Whetstone, one of MV’s most iconic landmarks, first opened for boating and fishing in September 1967 (photos available below).
Lake Whetstone in Montgomery Village was created by a dam, and the island in the middle was created by digging the bottom of the lake deeper when there was no water in it.
According to the Montgomery Village Foundation, Clarence Kettler was so particular about the lake that he even had it drained two times to make sure it was just right. Each time it was drained, the bulldozers and other equipment were called back in. Lake Whetstone is about 19 feet deep at its deepest point.
Clarence Kettler knew Lake Whetstone was going to be beautiful. He wanted to make sure that people driving along Montgomery Village Avenue could see the lake. Because of this, the lanes that go from Montgomery Village toward Route 355 are higher than those going into Montgomery Village.