Oostanaula River facts for kids
The Oostanaula River is a cool river in northwestern Georgia, USA. It's pronounced "oo-stuh-NA-luh". This river is about 49 miles (79 km) long. It's a main branch, called a tributary, of the Coosa River.
The Oostanaula River starts when two other rivers, the Conasauga and Coosawattee, join together. It's part of a bigger river system. This system eventually flows into the Mobile River, which then goes all the way to the Gulf of Mexico.
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What Does "Oostanaula" Mean?
People have different ideas about what the name "Oostanaula" means. Some say it comes from a Cherokee language word. This word might mean "rock that blocks the way."
Other ideas suggest it means "shoally river." A "shoally river" has many shallow spots or sandbars. Another similar meaning is "a rock ledge across a stream."
Where the Oostanaula River Flows
The Oostanaula River begins in northern Gordon County, Georgia. It forms when the Conasauga and Coosawattee rivers meet.
From there, it flows mostly southwest. It passes through Gordon and Floyd counties. Along its path, it goes by towns like Resaca and Calhoun.
Finally, the Oostanaula River meets the Etowah River. This happens in Downtown Rome. When these two rivers join, they form the Coosa River.
Rivers and Creeks Joining the Oostanaula
Many smaller rivers and creeks flow into the Oostanaula River. These are called its tributaries. They add water to the main river.
Here are some of the important ones:
Other Names for the River
Over time, rivers can sometimes have different names. The Oostanaula River has been known by several other names. These names were recorded by the GNIS.
Some of these other names include:
- Estanola River
- Estanole River
- Oostenauleh River
- Oostennallah River
- Oostinawley River
- Oustanale River
- Oustanalee River
- Ustanali River
For example, an old map from 1796 shows the river. On that map, it is called "Eastanallee R." You can see this old map here.
