South River (Maryland) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South River |
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|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | Maryland |
| Cities | Annapolis, South River, Riva, Edgewater, Mayo, Selby-on-the-Bay |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Crownsville, Maryland |
| River mouth | Chesapeake Bay Thomas Point 0 ft (0 m) |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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The South River is a 10-mile-long (16 km) river in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, United States. It flows into the Chesapeake Bay. The river is located south of the Severn River and north of the West River and Rhode River.
The total land area that drains into the South River, called its watershed, is about 56 square miles (150 km2). The river starts in western Anne Arundel County, near Crofton. It then flows into the Chesapeake Bay, just south of the historic city of Annapolis. This location is why it's called the South River.
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What are the main branches of the South River?
The South River has several important branches. The North River is the part of the South River that is not affected by tides. Another branch is Bacon Ridge Branch. These two branches meet between Maryland Route 450 and US 50. Some creeks on the north side of the South River, like Church Creek, collect water from busy areas of Annapolis.
How do people cross the South River?
There are two main bridges that cross the part of the South River where boats can travel. One bridge carries Maryland Route 2, and it's known as the South River Bridge. The other bridge carries Riva Road and is called the Riva Bridge. A third bridge, carrying US 50, crosses the upper part of the river where the tides still reach.
History of the South River Area
Even though there are no big towns directly on the South River today, there was once an important settlement called London Town. This town was started in 1683 on the south side of the river. It used to be the main town for the county and a busy port.
Where was London Town located?
London Town was located between two creeks, Almshouse Creek and Glebe Bay. Almshouse Creek got its name because the only building left from London Town was used as a county almshouse until 1965. Before bridges were built, ferries would carry people between London Town and Ferry Point, across the river, to get to Annapolis.
What can you see from historic London Town today?
The only surviving house from London Town is the William Brown House. It was built between 1758 and 1764. This house has been restored and is now open to the public as part of Historic London Town and Gardens. Another famous landmark near the mouth of the South River is the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. It's a well-known and often photographed lighthouse.
