Seneca River (South Carolina) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Seneca River |
|
|---|---|
| Native name | Isundiga River |
| Other name(s) | Keowee River (portions) |
| Country | United States |
| State | South Carolina |
| Region | Oconee County, Pickens County, Anderson County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Clemson 34°41′44″N 82°50′58″W / 34.69556°N 82.84944°W |
| River mouth | 34°26′37″N 82°51′22″W / 34.44361°N 82.85611°W |
The Seneca River is a river in South Carolina, USA. It starts where two other waterways, the Keowee River and Twelvemile Creek, meet. This spot is near Clemson.
Today, you won't see much of the original Seneca River. It is now mostly covered by the waters of Lake Hartwell. The river forms a long arm of this big lake, stretching about 21 miles (34 kilometers). The Seneca River is also important because it joins with the Tugaloo River to create the larger Savannah River.
Contents
Where the Seneca River Flows
The Seneca River is located in the northwestern part of South Carolina. It flows through three different counties: Oconee County, Pickens County, and Anderson County.
How Lake Hartwell Changed the River
Lake Hartwell was created by building a large wall, called a dam, across the Seneca and Tugaloo rivers. When the dam was finished, the water behind it rose and flooded the areas where these rivers used to flow. This is why the Seneca River is now mostly underwater, forming a part of Lake Hartwell.
The River's Changing Name
Over many years, the name of this river has sometimes changed. What we call the Seneca River today was once known by a different name in some parts.
A Name from History
During the time of the American Revolutionary War, which was a long time ago, the upper part of what is now the Seneca River was often called the Keowee River. So, people used different names for the same waterway depending on the time period.
What Maps Show Today
Even now, some maps can be a bit confusing. For example, the part of the Keowee River that is between the Keowee Dam and where it meets Twelvemile Creek is often labeled as the Seneca River on many maps. This includes official county maps. Because this area is now part of Lake Hartwell, people often just refer to it as the Seneca.
