Patterson Creek (Buffalo Creek tributary) facts for kids
Patterson Creek is a small stream that flows through two states in the United States: Missouri and Oklahoma. It starts in McDonald County, Missouri, and then crosses into Delaware County, Oklahoma. This creek is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger one. Patterson Creek eventually joins Buffalo Creek in eastern Oklahoma.
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The Journey of Patterson Creek
Patterson Creek begins its journey in Missouri. It forms when two smaller streams, called the North Fork and South Fork, meet together. This meeting point, known as a "confluence," is about three miles west of a town called Anderson. You can find this spot at coordinates 36°39′35″N 94°30′29″W / 36.65972°N 94.50806°W.
Flowing West
From its start, Patterson Creek flows mostly west. It passes by a small community named Coy. As it travels, the creek runs alongside and north of Missouri Route 76. It even goes under the road where Route 76 and Missouri Route 43 join up, which is about two miles east of Tiff City.
Turning South and Meeting Buffalo Creek
After flowing west, Patterson Creek makes a turn to the southwest. It continues in this direction for about two miles. Finally, it reaches its end point, joining Buffalo Creek. This meeting happens just west of the border between Missouri and Oklahoma, about 1.5 miles south of Tiff City. The exact location where Patterson Creek joins Buffalo Creek is at 36°38′54″N 94°37′07″W / 36.64833°N 94.61861°W.
How Patterson Creek Got Its Name
Patterson Creek was named after an early settler in the area. His name was John Patterson, and he was one of the first people to live in that part of the country. Naming natural features like creeks after important local figures was a common practice long ago.
