Josias River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Josias River |
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|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Maine |
The Josias River is a short river located in southern Maine, United States. It flows for about 2.7-mile (4.3 km) (4.3 kilometers).
This river meets the Gulf of Maine in the town of Ogunquit. Here, it joins the Ogunquit River at a place called Perkin's Cove. Perkin's Cove is a popular spot known for its artists and many visitors.
The Story Behind the Josias River's Name
Like many natural places, the Josias River has been known by different names over time. For example, it was once called "Four Mile Brook."
The name "Josias River" comes from the Littlefield family. They were among the first settlers in Wells, a town that once included Ogunquit. Josiah Littlefield owned a lot of land along this river. He also built and ran a saw mill at the river's falls for several years. Because of his mill and land, local people started calling it "Josiah's river."
Josiah Littlefield faced a difficult time during the French and Indian Wars. In 1708, he was taken to Canada. He spent two years trying to gain his freedom. Sadly, after he returned home, he was killed in an attack in 1712. The river was named in his memory to honor him.
