Gladden Creek facts for kids
Gladden Creek is a lovely stream located in the beautiful Ozarks region of southern Missouri. It flows through two counties, Dent County and Shannon County. A stream is like a small river, and Gladden Creek is a "tributary," which means it flows into a larger river. In this case, it joins the Current River, a well-known river in the Ozarks.
About Gladden Creek
Gladden Creek is an important part of the natural landscape in this part of Missouri. It helps to carry water through the area and supports various plants and animals that live near its banks. The creek's journey starts in one place and ends when it meets the Current River.
Where Gladden Creek Starts and Ends
Every stream has a beginning, called its headwaters. For Gladden Creek, its headwaters are found in Dent County. You can find this spot using special coordinates: 37°32′33″N 91°28′44″W / 37.54250°N 91.47889°W. This is about six miles south of a town called Salem.
From its start, Gladden Creek flows generally towards the southeast and then south. It travels alongside (and a bit to the west of) Missouri Route 19, which is a road in the area. As it flows, it passes by small communities like Custer and Gladden.
The creek then crosses into Shannon County, just northwest of Rector. Finally, Gladden Creek reaches its end, or "confluence," where it joins the Current River. This meeting point is near the town of Akers, and its coordinates are 37°22′36″N 91°32′51″W / 37.37667°N 91.54750°W.
How Gladden Creek Got Its Name
Many places get their names from the people who lived nearby a long time ago. Gladden Creek is named after a local family, the Gladden family, who were among the early settlers in the area. It's a way to remember the history and the people connected to this peaceful stream.
