Mattabesset River facts for kids
The Mattabesset River is a cool river in Connecticut! It starts from Harts Ponds in the town of Berlin. From there, it flows east for about 16.1 miles (25.9 km) (that's about 26 kilometers) until it reaches the big Connecticut River.
As it travels, the Mattabesset River passes through Kensington. It also forms the border between the towns of Middletown and Cromwell. Imagine a river acting like a natural line between two towns!
Contents
Where Does the Mattabesset River Start?
The Mattabesset River begins its journey in a place called Harts Ponds. These ponds are located in the town of Berlin, Connecticut. It's like the river's birthplace!
How Long is the Mattabesset River?
This river flows for about 16.1 miles (25.9 km). That's a good distance for a river! It winds its way through different areas before joining a much larger river.
The Mattabesset River's Journey
The river flows generally towards the east. It goes through several towns on its way to the Connecticut River.
Towns Along the River
- Berlin: This is where the river starts.
- Kensington: The river flows past this town.
- Middletown and Cromwell: The Mattabesset River actually forms the boundary between these two towns. It's a natural border!
The Coginchaug River Connection
Further south, there's another river called the Coginchaug River. Its name means "winding meadow," which describes it perfectly! This river flows north from a high meadow in Durham. It joins the Mattabesset River just before the Mattabesset meets the Connecticut River.
A Place for Portage
The Coginchaug River was important long ago. It was a route to a "portage place." A portage place is where people would carry their canoes or boats over land to get to another body of water. This specific portage spot was near Palmer Field. It was also close to a main village of a Native American leader named Sowheag, at a place called Indian Hill.
Other Names for the River
The Mattabesset River has had a few different names over time!
- West River: It was sometimes called this because it used to be the western boundary of the old City of Middletown.
- Sebethe River: This was another name given to it, but we don't know why.
- Arrawanna River: This name was also used, again for unknown reasons.
It seems like people tried to find a more "poetic" or pleasant-sounding name for the river. Maybe they thought "Mattabeseck" (an older spelling of Mattabesset) wasn't quite right!
