Root River (Wisconsin) facts for kids
The Root River is a river in Wisconsin, United States. It is about 43.7 miles (70.3 km) long. This river flows into Lake Michigan at the city of Racine. The city and Racine County are both named after the river. This is because "racine" is the French word for "root."
Where Does the River Flow?
The Root River starts in a suburb called New Berlin in Waukesha County. From there, it flows mostly southeast. It passes through several suburbs in Milwaukee County. These include West Allis, Greenfield, Greendale, and Franklin. Finally, it reaches Racine County and flows into Lake Michigan at Racine.
Other Names for the River
The Root River has had a few different names throughout history. The Geographic Names Information System lists these names:
- Chippecotton
- Chipperooton
- Kipikawi
- Ot-chee-beek
- Racine River
There was once a small village, or hamlet, called Root Creek in Greenfield. It was located on the bank of what people locally called "Root Creek" instead of "Root River."
