Mission River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mission |
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View of Mission River from the FM-2678 bridge
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 Location of the Mission River mouth in Texas
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| Country | United States |
| State | Texas |
| Region | Refugio County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Copano Bay 28°09′53″N 97°10′18″W / 28.16472°N 97.17167°W |
| Length | 24 mi (39 km) |
The Mission River is a river found in Texas, United States. It starts when two smaller streams, Blanco and Medio, join together. This happens in the middle of Refugio County.
The river then flows southeast for about 24 miles (39 km). It passes by the town of Refugio. The Mission River ends when it flows into Mission Bay, which is part of Copano Bay.
The land around the river is mostly flat coastal prairies. These areas have clay and loam soil. You can also see groups of hardwood trees and pine trees. Many different waterfowl (birds that live near water) live here. You can also find native grasses that grow in wet, swampy areas.
History of the Mission River
The Mission River has an interesting history, especially linked to early settlements and important events.
How the River Got Its Name
In 1795, some Spanish friars (religious brothers) moved their mission. This mission was called Nuestra Señora del Refugio. They moved it from near the Guadalupe River and San Antonio River. They chose a new spot right next to the Mission River. It is very likely that this move gave the river its name.
The Battle of Refugio
The Mission River played a role in the Texas Revolution. This was a war where Texans fought for independence from Mexico.
On March 14, 1836, a group of Texan soldiers was led by Amon B. King. They took a strong position in a group of trees along the river. Mexican troops, led by General José de Urrea, attacked them many times. The Texans fought back bravely during what is known as the Battle of Refugio.
After a day of fighting, the Texans were running low on gunpowder. King told his men to escape that night by swimming across the Mission River. This made the little gunpowder they had left get wet and useless. The next day, General Urrea's men caught King and his soldiers. They were taken back to the mission. On March 16, these Texans lost their lives.
See also
In Spanish: Río Misión para niños
