Spanish River (Alabama) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Spanish River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | Alabama |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 30°46′19″N 88°01′19″W / 30.772°N 88.022°W |
| River mouth | 30°39′54″N 88°01′16″W / 30.665°N 88.021°W |
| Length | 8 miles (13 km) |
The Spanish River is a special kind of river in Alabama. Its water is a mix of fresh water and salty ocean water, which is called "brackish." It acts like a border between Baldwin and Mobile counties.
This river is about 8 miles (13 km) long. The amount of water in it changes with the ocean's tides.
About the Spanish River
The Spanish River is a "distributary" river. This means it branches off from a larger river. It starts at the top of Blakeley Island. Here, it splits away from the Mobile River.
Where the River Flows
From its start, the Spanish River flows along the eastern side of Blakeley Island. It also runs past Pinto Island. Finally, it empties into Mobile Bay just south of Pinto Island.
A Bit of History
The Spanish River holds secrets from the American Civil War. Two important warships were sunk here. These ships were called the CSS Tuscaloosa and the CSS Huntsville.
They were "ironclads," which were powerful ships covered in thick metal armor. These ships belonged to the Confederate side during the war. On April 12, 1865, they were purposely sunk in the river. This was done to stop the enemy from capturing them. It happened right after the city of Mobile surrendered.
