Monongahela River facts for kids
The Monongahela River (say it: muh-NONG-guh-HEE-luh), often called the Mon by local people, is a cool river in the eastern United States. It's about 130 miles (209 kilometers) long and flows from south to north, which is a bit unusual for rivers! The Mon starts in north-central West Virginia and then flows through southwestern Pennsylvania. It's a very important river because it joins the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh. When these two rivers meet, they form the mighty Ohio River, a major waterway in the country.
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Where the Monongahela Flows
The Monongahela River begins in the mountains of West Virginia. It starts where two smaller rivers, the West Fork River and the Tygart Valley River, come together near the city of Fairmont, West Virginia. From there, it flows north, passing through several counties in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
A River that Flows North
Most rivers in the Northern Hemisphere flow from north to south because of how land slopes. But the Monongahela River is different! It flows from south to north. This unique path is because of the way the land is shaped in the Allegheny Plateau region. It's like a natural downhill slope that guides the water in that direction.
The Mon's Importance
The Monongahela River has been very important for a long time.
Transportation and Trade
For many years, the Monongahela River was like a natural highway. Before roads and trains were common, people used the river to move goods and travel. Boats carried coal, timber, and other products from the mines and forests to cities like Pittsburgh. Even today, barges still use the river to transport heavy materials, which helps local industries.
Shaping Cities
The river played a big part in the growth of cities along its banks, especially Pittsburgh. Because the Monongahela, Allegheny, and Ohio rivers meet there, Pittsburgh became a major center for trade and industry. The river provided water for factories and a way to ship their products.
Fun Facts About the Mon
- The name "Monongahela" comes from a Native American language. It might mean "falling banks" or "high banks," describing the river's edges.
- There are many bridges that cross the Monongahela River, connecting different towns and cities. Some of these bridges are very old and have interesting histories!
- The river is also a place for fun! People enjoy fishing, boating, and watching wildlife along its banks.
Images for kids
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The South Tenth Street Bridge over the Monongahela River in Pittsburgh in 2005
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The Monongahela River in Fairmont, West Virginia, in 2006
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Monongahela River Scene, 1857
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Opekiska Lock and Dam on the Monongahela River near Fairmont, West Virginia, at river mile 115
See also
In Spanish: Río Monongahela para niños
