Mystic River (Connecticut) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mystic River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Connecticut |
| River mouth | Long Island Sound |
| Length | 3.4 mi (5.5 km) |
The Mystic River is a short river in the southeast part of Connecticut, USA. It is about 3.4-mile-long (5.5 km). This river is an estuary, which means it's where fresh river water mixes with salty ocean water.
The Mystic River flows into Long Island Sound. It also divides the village of Mystic, Connecticut into two towns: Groton and Stonington. Much of the river's water level changes with the ocean's tides.
For many years, the Mystic River was a busy place for building ships. Today, it is home to the Mystic Seaport museum. This museum teaches visitors all about the area's history with the sea. The name "Mystic" comes from a word used by the Pequot people. It means a large river where tides or wind create waves.
River History
Long ago, Native Americans called the Pequot people lived near the Mystic River. They had a village named Siccanemos on the river's west side. In 1637, there was a conflict known as the Pequot War. The village was destroyed during this time.
In the 1800s, the Mystic River became famous for shipbuilding. Many large ships were built here. These ships sailed all over the world. Today, you can visit the Mystic Seaport Museum. It shows what life was like when shipbuilding was a big part of the river's history.
