North Branch Dead River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Branch Dead River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Maine 1,275 feet (390 m) |
| River mouth | Flagstaff Lake 1,145 feet (350 m) 45°09′48″N 70°26′18″W / 45.1632°N 70.4382°W |
| Length | 19 miles (31 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Flagstaff Lake – Dead River – Kennebec River |
The North Branch Dead River is a 19.3-mile (31.1 km) long river in Franklin County, Maine. It is a branch of the Dead River. A road called Maine State Route 27 runs right next to it for much of its length.
River's Journey
The North Branch Dead River starts from a place called Lower Pond. This pond is located in an area known as the Chain of Ponds. From there, the river flows southeast.
It eventually reaches a town called Eustis. Here, it used to meet the South Branch of the Dead River. However, in 1950, a large lake called Flagstaff Lake was created. This lake now covers the spot where the two branches once joined.
A Historic Path
This river played a special role in American history. It was part of a very tough journey during the American Revolution in 1775.
Benedict Arnold's Expedition
A military leader named Benedict Arnold led over 1,000 soldiers on an expedition. Their goal was to invade Quebec in Canada. This was a very difficult trip through the wilderness of Maine.
The soldiers used small boats called bateaux to travel up the Kennebec River. When they reached fast-moving parts of the river (rapids), they had to portage. This means they carried their boats and supplies around the dangerous water.
They then continued their journey up the North Branch Dead River. They went through the Chain of Ponds. Finally, they crossed a high area of land into Canada. From there, they followed the Chaudière River to reach Quebec. This shows how important rivers like the North Branch Dead River were for travel in the past.
