Dead Indian Creek (Oregon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dead Indian Creek |
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 Location of the mouth of Dead Indian Creek in Oregon
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| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| County | Jackson |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Cascade Range east of Ashland 5,684 ft (1,732 m) 42°13′17″N 122°29′08″W / 42.22139°N 122.48556°W |
| River mouth | South Fork of Little Butte Creek east of Medford 2,562 ft (781 m) 42°20′18″N 122°27′10″W / 42.33833°N 122.45278°W |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 22.4 sq mi (58 km2) |
Dead Indian Creek is a small stream, also called a tributary, located in Jackson County, Oregon. A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. This creek flows into the South Fork of Little Butte Creek.
Contents
Exploring Dead Indian Creek
Dead Indian Creek starts high up in the Cascade Range mountains. This is a large mountain range in western North America. The creek begins east of Ashland, at an elevation of about 5,684 feet (1,732 meters) above sea level.
Where Does the Creek Flow?
The creek generally flows north. It travels through the beautiful Rogue River – Siskiyou National Forest. This forest is a protected area where many plants and animals live. The creek passes east of Medford, a city in Oregon.
Journey to a Larger River
Dead Indian Creek begins near Howard Prairie Lake. It then flows until it reaches the South Fork of Little Butte Creek at a place called Camp Latgawa. The South Fork then joins the North Fork near Lake Creek. Together, these two forks form the main Little Butte Creek. Finally, Little Butte Creek flows into the mighty Rogue River. The Rogue River is a famous river in Oregon known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.
How Did Dead Indian Creek Get Its Name?
The name "Dead Indian Creek" comes from an event that happened in the 1850s. According to a book called Oregon Geographic Names, the creek was named after a historical incident.
The Story Behind the Name
During the 1850s, two Tututni people were found near the creek's banks. The name of the creek, and also Dead Indian Mountain, came from this event. There is also a road in the area that was originally called "Dead Indian Road."
A More Respectful Name
Over time, people realized that the road's name could be seen as disrespectful. So, it was changed to "Dead Indian Memorial Road." This new name helps remember the historical event in a more thoughtful way. This road stretches from Ashland, past the mountain and the creek, all the way to Upper Klamath Lake.
