Broad River Greenway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Broad River Greenway |
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 Broad River Greenway
Location in North Carolina
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| Location | Cleveland, North Carolina, United States |
| Area | 1,436 acres (5.81 km2) |
| Established | 1996 |
| Governing body | Broad River Greenway, Inc |
| Website | [1] |
The Broad River Greenway is a special park in Cleveland County, North Carolina. It was created in 1994 to protect nature and offer fun outdoor activities. People have enjoyed this land for a long time, even before it became a protected park. For example, the "Old College Farm Trail" was a popular hiking spot nearby. It's a great place to explore the Broad River and its beautiful surroundings.
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The Broad River: A Lifeline
Rivers are super important! They give us water and are home to tons of wildlife. The Broad River was a vital source of food and water for Native Americans. It was also like an old highway, helping people travel easily. They could go from the mountains all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.
Life in the River
Under the water's surface, thousands of different creatures live. These range from big fish like largemouth bass to tiny, unseen organisms. Today, we understand how important rivers are for nature and for us. We also love the river for its beauty and for fun activities like canoeing.
River Connections
Other rivers and creeks flow into the Broad River. These are called tributaries. Above the Greenway, the Green River, Second Broad River, and Sandy Run Creek join the Broad River. Further downstream, the First Broad River also flows into it. Parts of the Broad River in South Carolina are even called a "state scenic river" because they are so beautiful.
Exploring the Land: Animals and Plants
This nature preserve covers 1436 acres along both sides of the river. It's a wonderful place for nature lovers! If you are quiet and look closely, you might see many amazing animals.
Wildlife You Might Spot
The Greenway is home to many birds. You might see an osprey catching fish or a broad-winged hawk soaring overhead. Look for blue herons standing still in the water. You could also spot Canada geese, spotted sandpipers, and colorful songbirds like the pine warbler, parula warbler, or red-eyed vireo. Several types of ducks also live here.
The thick bushes and riverbanks offer a safe home for many land animals. You might see deer, wild turkeys, and even flying squirrels. Other animals include groundhogs, mink, muskrats, and foxes. Sometimes, people even report seeing bobcats roaming the area!
Beautiful Wildflowers
The Greenway also has many stunning wildflowers. In spring and summer, the landscape is painted with colors. You can find Rhododendron, mountain laurel, trillium, and wild azaleas. Look for unique plants like jack-in-the-pulpit and dwarf flowered heartleaf. There are many more beautiful flowers waiting to be discovered!
A Glimpse into History: The Phifer Cabin
In 1997, an old log cabin was moved to the Broad River Greenway. A local expert, Steve Padgett, helped move and restore it. This cabin was originally built near Kings Mountain, North Carolina.
Who Built the Cabin?
The Phifers were some of the first families to settle in that area. It's believed that either Martin Phifer (who lived from 1794 to 1854) or John Phifer (who lived from 1827 to 1901) built the cabin. They likely built it in the mid-1800s.
Unique Construction Style
These early settlers used a special way to join the logs called "V-notch" construction. This technique was brought to America by immigrants from Northern Europe. They used it when they settled in places like eastern Tennessee. In 1997, when experts studied old buildings, this was the only log cabin found with this unique V-notch style. It's a cool piece of history right in the Greenway!
