Ottawa River (Auglaize River tributary) facts for kids
The Ottawa River is a river in northwestern Ohio, United States. It flows into the Auglaize River. This river is about 50 miles (80 km) long.
The river gets its name from the Ottawa tribe. These Native Americans lived in the area a long time ago. There are other rivers with the same name. One is the Ottawa River near Toledo, Ohio. Another is the Ottawa River in Canada.
Where Does the Ottawa River Start and Go?
The Ottawa River begins in northern Hardin County. It flows northwest first. Then it turns and goes west-southwest through the city of Lima.
About 2 miles (3.2 km) southeast of Lima, the river suddenly turns north. It then flows into western Putnam County. Finally, it joins the Auglaize River from the southeast. This meeting point is about 3 miles (4.8 km) northwest of Kalida.
Why Is It Also Called "Hog Creek"?
The Ottawa River has another old name: "Hog Creek". There's a story about how it got this name.
Long ago, in 1786, a British agent named Alexander McKee lived near the Mad River. When General Logan came from Kentucky, McKee had to leave quickly. He had many pigs, and they were driven to the edge of this river. When the Shawnee Native Americans saw this, they called the river Koshko Sepe. In their language, this meant 'The Creek of the Hogs' or 'Hog Stream'.
