First River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids First River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | New Jersey |
| Counties | Essex |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Essex County, New Jersey, United States |
| River mouth | Passaic River Newark, Essex, New Jersey, United States |
The First River is a small, mostly hidden river in New Jersey, United States. It's special because it flows mostly underground! This river is the very first tributary (a smaller stream that flows into a larger one) of the Passaic River when you travel upstream from where the Passaic meets Newark Bay.
Contents
What is the First River?
The First River is a unique waterway in Newark, Essex County. It starts where two smaller streams, Mill Brook and Branch Brook, join together. This spot is near the Skating Center in Branch Brook Park.
Where Did It Flow?
In the past, the First River flowed openly through the land. It ran alongside streets like Seventh Avenue and Clay Street. Eventually, it emptied into the Passaic River near the Clay Street bridge.
Why Was It Important?
The First River was also known as Mill Brook. This name came from the many mills it powered. In the 1600s, early settlers in Newark used these mills. They had grist mills to grind grain into flour, which was very important for their food.
Where Is It Now?
From 1863 to 1890, people changed the First River. They built structures called culverts around it. This made the river flow underground. Now, it runs through two large culverts. Each culvert is about 6 feet 9 inches (206 cm) high and 9 feet 3 inches (282 cm) wide.
The river still flows into the Passaic River, but you can't see most of it. It used to flow through what is now Branch Brook Park in Newark. Today, it flows underneath the park, hidden from view.
See also
In Spanish: Río First para niños
