Oriskany Creek facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Oriskany Creek
The site of a patriot ambush during the Battle of Oriskany at Oriskany Creek
Show map of New York Show map of the United States Location of the mouth of the Oriskany Creek in New York State.
Country	United States
State	New York
Counties	Madison, Oneida
Physical characteristics
Main source	Stockbridge, Madison County 42°57′36″N 75°33′17″W / 42.96000°N 75.55472°W / 42.96000; -75.55472
River mouth	Mohawk River Whitestown, Oneida County 43°09′50″N 75°19′26″W / 43.16389°N 75.32389°W / 43.16389; -75.32389
Length	33 mi (53 km)
Basin features
Tributaries	Left: Deans Creek Right: White Creek, Turkey Creek, Big Creek, Buckley Mill Creek

Oriskany Creek is a 33-mile (53 km) long river in New York, United States. It starts in Madison County and flows mostly northeast through Oneida County. Oriskany Creek is a tributary (a smaller stream that flows into a larger one) of the Mohawk River. This means it is part of the larger Hudson River watershed (an area of land where all the water drains into one river system).

The creek is wide but not very deep. Because it is shallow, only small boats like canoes can travel on some parts of it. Oriskany Creek is also well-known for its brown trout, a type of fish that people enjoy catching. Anglers (people who fish) often catch these fish from the shore or by wading in the water.

History of Oriskany Creek

Oriskany Creek has played an important role in the history of the area.

Native American Settlements

Long ago, a village of the Oneida Native Americans called Oriska was located near where the creek meets the Mohawk River. This area was important for their community.

The American Revolutionary War

During the American Revolutionary War, a major battle called the Battle of Oriskany took place in 1777. Part of this battle was fought in a swampy area near the mouth of Oriskany Creek. It was a very difficult fight for the American forces.

Power for Mills

When settlers began to arrive in the area, Oriskany Creek became a valuable source of power. Many mills (factories that used water power to grind grain or saw wood) were built along its banks. The flowing water helped these mills operate.

The Chenango Canal

The creek also supplied water for the old Chenango Canal. This canal was an important waterway built to connect the southern part of New York to the Erie Canal. Canals were like water highways that helped transport goods and people across the state.

Communities Along the Creek

Many towns and villages are located along the path of Oriskany Creek. These communities have grown over time, often using the creek for water or recreation.