Bitter Creek (Wyoming) facts for kids
Bitter Creek is a stream in Wyoming, USA, about 80 miles (129 km) long. It flows through parts of Sweetwater and Carbon counties. The creek starts in the Red Desert and mostly runs alongside the Transcontinental Railroad and Interstate 80. Bitter Creek passes through the cities of Rock Springs and Green River before joining the Green River.
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History of Bitter Creek
Bitter Creek played a role in the history of Rock Springs, Wyoming. In the late 1800s, when coal mining was very important there, the creek formed a natural boundary. A coal mining camp for the Union Pacific company was on one side. On the other side was a camp for Chinese immigrant workers.
The Rock Springs Incident
On September 2, 1885, a sad event known as the Rock Springs Massacre happened. A group of white miners, who were upset about jobs and other tensions, took control of bridges over Bitter Creek. They then attacked the Chinese workers' camp. This event is an important part of Wyoming's history.
Bitter Creek Today
Several bridges built by the railroad still cross Bitter Creek between Rock Springs and Green River. Some dirt roads near the creek in Sweetwater County are on railroad property. These roads are sometimes used for accessing radio towers.
Bitter Creek in Pop Culture
Bitter Creek was even mentioned on TV! In an episode of the famous show M*A*S*H (Season 5, Episode 20), the character Cpl. Mulligan said Bitter Creek was his hometown.
