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Tyger River
Santeerivermap.png
The Tyger River is part of the Santee River Basin.
Country United States
Counties Spartanburg, Union, Newberry
Physical characteristics
Main source Near Woodruff, South Carolina
River mouth Broad River, Near Blythewood, South Carolina
34.495038, -81.423987
Width
  • Average width:
    50 ft
Depth
  • Average depth:
    3 ft
Basin features
River system Santee
Basin size 807.9 mi²
Tributaries
  • Left:
    Jimmies Creek
  • Right:
    Tinker Creek, Fairforest Creek, Dutchman Creek

The Tyger River is a stream located in the U.S. state of South Carolina. It flows into the Broad River, and is part of the larger Santee River Basin. This river is usually quite shallow and narrow. There was once a legal case about keeping its water clean, called Friends of the Earth, Inc. v. Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc., which focused on pollution in its north fork.

What's in a Name?

The name "Tyger River" has a few interesting stories behind it. One local tale says the river got its name because its current was as strong and wild as a "tiger." Another story suggests it was named after a French explorer called Tygert.

There's also a legend about a big wild cat and a bear fighting by the riverbank, with the wild cat winning. The Cherokee people, who lived in the area long ago, called the river Amoyescheck.

The river has also been known by other names over time. These include A Moyes Chek, Tiger River, and Tygar River.

Where the River Flows

The Tyger River begins in Spartanburg County, in the northern part of South Carolina. It actually starts as three separate streams: the North Tyger, Middle Tyger, and South Tyger Rivers.

These three streams flow generally towards the southeast. They eventually join together near the town of Woodruff. The river then continues its journey southeast. For about 26 miles, it forms the border between Union County and Newberry County. During this part of its journey, it flows through the Sumter National Forest.

The Tyger River finally meets the Broad River north of the Parr Reservoir. This meeting point is special because it's where three counties meet: Newberry, Union, and Laurens Counties. Because it flows into the Broad River, the Tyger River is an important part of the large Santee River Basin.

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