Rhode River facts for kids
The Rhode River is a small river in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. It's about 3 miles (5 kilometers) long. This river is a "tidal tributary," which means its water level changes with the ocean's tides. It flows into the West River. You can find it just south of the South River.
This river has several smaller waterways that connect to it. These are called tidal creeks and coves. They are listed starting from the upper part of the river and moving around clockwise:
- Muddy Creek
- Fox Creek
- Sheephead Cove
- Sellman Creek
- Bear Neck Creek, which connects to Whitemarsh Creek
- Cadle Creek
- Boathouse Cove
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Fun Places on the Rhode River
The Rhode River is home to some interesting spots. YMCA Camp Letts is a popular summer camp. It's located on a piece of land that sticks out into the river, called a peninsula. You can find it at the northern end of the Rhode River.
The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is also located here. This center uses the Rhode River for important scientific studies. They study the environment and how it changes. Most of their land is on the northwestern side of the Rhode River.
Carrs Wharf Park
Carrs Wharf is a community park right on the Rhode River. It's a place where people can visit and enjoy the river.
Early History of the Rhode River Area
The area around the Rhode River has a long history. It was one of the first places settled in the Province of Maryland. This was a long time ago, in the 1600s.
In 1651, a man named Robert Harwood surveyed a large piece of land. This land was called Harwood Plantation and was located on the Rhode River. Later, a deed (a legal paper about land ownership) was written. It was for a place called Hookers Purchase at the top of Muddy Creek.
The Steamboat Emma Giles
For many years, a steamboat helped people travel on the Rhode River. The steamboat was named Emma Giles. It started running in 1891 and continued until 1932. The Emma Giles made five trips each week, helping people get around the area.
