Cummins Creek (Texas) facts for kids

Cummins Creek is a waterway in Texas, United States. It starts near a town called Giddings in Lee County, Texas. From there, it flows southeast for about 65 miles (105 kilometers). The creek passes through Lee, Fayette, and Colorado counties. Finally, it joins the Colorado River near the town of Columbus.

Discovering Cummins Creek

Where Does Cummins Creek Flow?

Cummins Creek begins in Lee County, Texas. It flows in a southeast direction. The creek travels through three different counties: Lee, Fayette, and Colorado. After its long journey, it empties into the Colorado River. This meeting point is across from the town of Columbus.

How Cummins Creek Got Its Name

The creek is named after a pioneer named James (Jack) Cummins. He was one of the "Old Three Hundred" settlers. These were the first families who came to Texas with Stephen F. Austin in the 1820s. James Cummins received land at the mouth of the creek in 1824. He built a sawmill and a gristmill there in 1826. Before being called Cummins Creek, the Spanish knew it as San Benave. It was also sometimes called Mill Creek because of Cummins's mills.

What's Special About Cummins Creek?

Cummins Creek is an important branch of the Colorado River. In the past, it often caused big floods. To help with this, many flood-control projects were built. These projects were created by the United States Department of Agriculture. They help protect the area from floods and also offer places for fun activities like fishing or boating. The soil along the creek can wash away easily.

The land around Cummins Creek has changed over time. Before the 1960s, farmers grew a lot of cotton and corn there. Today, much of this land is used for grazing cattle and horses. The banks of the creek are covered with thick woods. These areas are great homes for wildlife. You can also find many native pecan trees, which produce tasty nuts.