Baker River (New Hampshire) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Baker River |
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The Baker River at U.S. Route 3 crossing in Plymouth, New Hampshire
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| Country | United States |
| State | New Hampshire |
| County | Grafton |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Jobildunc Ravine, Mount Moosilauke Benton, New Hampshire 3,560 ft (1,090 m) 44°1′28″N 71°49′0″W / 44.02444°N 71.81667°W |
| River mouth | Pemigewasset River Plymouth, New Hampshire 465 ft (142 m) 43°45′49″N 71°41′10″W / 43.76361°N 71.68611°W |
| Length | 36.4 mi (58.6 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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The Baker River is a river in New Hampshire, United States. It's about 36 miles (58 km) long. The river's original name was Asquamchumauke. This is an Abenaki word. It means "salmon spawning place," which tells us fish used to lay their eggs here.
The Baker River starts on the south side of Mount Moosilauke. It flows south and then east. Finally, it joins the Pemigewasset River in Plymouth. The river flows through the towns of Warren, Wentworth, and Rumney. It is part of the larger Merrimack River watershed. This means its water eventually flows into the Merrimack River.
History of the Baker River
The Baker River is named after Lt. Thomas Baker. He was a scout who explored the area in 1712. His group of 34 scouts traveled down this river's valley.
In 1752, an important event happened along this river. On April 28, John Stark and Amos Eastman were exploring. They were captured by Abenaki warriors. They were taken to a village near Montreal, Canada. John Stark's brother, William Stark, managed to escape. Sadly, David Stinson was killed during this event.
An old map from 1835 by Thomas Bradford shows the river. It calls it "Bakers" River. The map also shows it starting on "Mooshillock Mtn."
Rivers Joining the Baker River
Many smaller streams and rivers flow into the Baker River. These are called tributaries. Here are some of the larger ones, listed from upstream to downstream:
- Berry Brook
- Pond Brook
- South Branch Baker River
- Halls Brook
- Stinson Brook
Fish Hatchery
There is a large fish hatchery located in the Baker River valley. This hatchery is in the town of Warren. Fish hatcheries help to raise young fish. They then release them into rivers and lakes. This helps to keep fish populations healthy.
Images for kids
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A New Hampshire historical marker (number 55) in Rumney
