Indian lore has it that Ahanton, Chief of one of the Winnipesauke tribes, was away on a trip from the Meredith area when a young brave named Kona (the Eagle) came courting the Chief’s daughter, Ellacoya. She fell in love with Kona, but the father was angered because Kona dared to court Ellacoya in the Chief’s absence. He threatened to kill Kona but Ellacoya stepped between them. Kona showed no fear so the chief consented to his daughter’s marriage. After days of celebration and feasting, a canoe party accompanied the couple across the lake, but a dark cloud covered the sun and a threatening storm began to turn the water black. Just when the party was going to turn back for safety the sun broke through the clouds guiding the couple safely to the other shore. Chief Ahanton cried out: “Here is the Smile of the Great Spirit, Winnipesaukee!”