Taylor River (New Hampshire) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Taylor River |
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Country | United States |
State | New Hampshire |
County | Rockingham |
Town | Kensington, Hampton Falls, Hampton |
Physical characteristics | |
Main source | Kensington 80 ft (24 m) 42°55′16″N 70°55′56″W / 42.92111°N 70.93222°W |
River mouth | Hampton River Hampton 0 ft (0 m) 42°54′47″N 70°50′44″W / 42.91306°N 70.84556°W |
Length | 10.6 mi (17.1 km) |
Basin features | |
Tributaries |
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The Taylor River is a river about 10.6 miles (17.1 kilometers) long. It is located in the southeastern part of New Hampshire in the United States. This river is a tributary, which means it's a smaller river that flows into a larger one. The Taylor River flows into the Hampton River. The Hampton River is a tidal inlet of the Atlantic Ocean, meaning it's where the river meets the ocean and its water levels change with the tides. About two miles of the Taylor River are also affected by these tides.
The Taylor River starts in the eastern part of Kensington, New Hampshire. It then flows east into the town of Hampton Falls. The river takes a winding path, flowing north, then east, then southeast through the low-lying areas of the region. It reaches the tidal part of the river at a dam. This dam has a special "fish ladder" to help fish move past it. The dam is located where Interstate 95 crosses the river. For its last four miles, the Taylor River forms the border between Hampton Falls and Hampton, New Hampshire.
Fun Activities on the River
The part of the Taylor River that is freshwater (not affected by tides) is a popular spot for outdoor fun.
- In the summer, people enjoy fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
- When the river freezes in winter, it's a great place for ice fishing and cross-country skiing.
The dam on the river was built in the 1950s. It was created to help build Interstate 95. The New Hampshire Department of Transportation now owns and manages this dam.
History of the River's Name
The Taylor River was named after a man named Anthony Taylor. He was one of the people who helped start the town of Hampton.
Who Was Anthony Taylor?
Anthony Taylor was born in England sometime between 1607 and 1611. He came to America in 1635 with his wife, Phillipa. They traveled on a ship called the Anne and Elizabeth.
Once in America, Anthony Taylor lived in Hampton for the rest of his life. He was a very important and respected person in the community. He was involved in local government and helped lead the town.
Anthony Taylor worked as a feltmaker, which means he made things out of felt. He also ran a tavern and served as a constable, which is like a police officer. He did many other jobs in the Hampton area too.
Anthony Taylor passed away in Hampton on November 4, 1687, when he was 80 years old. His wife, Phillipa, had passed away earlier, on September 20, 1683. Anthony and Phillipa are believed to be the oldest known Taylors in America. Many people living today across North and South America are their descendants.