Crooked Creek (Headwaters Diversion Channel tributary) facts for kids
Crooked Creek is a stream located in the southeastern part of Missouri. It flows through two counties: Bollinger and Cape Girardeau. This creek is a tributary (meaning it flows into) to the Headwater Diversion Channel.
Where Crooked Creek Begins and Flows
Crooked Creek starts in Bollinger County. Its headwaters (the very beginning of the stream) are formed where two smaller streams, Henson Branch and Reagan Branch, join together. This meeting point is at about 790 feet above sea level.
From there, the stream flows south. It passes under Missouri Route A near a place called Tallent. The creek then winds its way through communities like Grisham, Bessville, and Glenallen.
Near Glenallen, Crooked Creek turns eastward. It flows alongside Missouri Route 34 and goes under Missouri Route 51. This happens between the towns of Marble Hill and Lutesville.
The stream continues past Laflin before entering Cape Girardeau County. Here, it turns south again, flowing past the Lake Girardeau Conservation Area. Finally, it passes under Missouri Route U and joins the Diversion Channel. This happens about two miles southwest of Whitewater, at an elevation of about 350 feet.
Why the Name "Crooked Creek"?
The stream was given its name because of its very winding and "crooked" path. If you look at a map, you can see how it twists and turns, which is why it's called Crooked Creek!
A Look Back in Time
Before the Headwater Diversion Channel was built, Crooked Creek flowed into the Whitewater River. The name "Crooked Creek" is very old, dating back to before 1818. A famous explorer and writer named Henry Schoolcraft even mentioned it in his journals.
