West River (Rhode Island) facts for kids
The West River is a small river in the state of Rhode Island, U.S.. It flows for about 7.6 miles (12.2 kilometers). This river is special because it's the only named stream that flows into the Moshassuck River. Long ago, during the time called the Industrial Revolution, the West River was very important. Its water helped power many textile mills, which were factories that made cloth. You can still see signs of this history today, as there are seven dams along the river's path.
Where Does the West River Start and Flow?
The West River begins in a cool spot where the towns of Lincoln and Smithfield meet. It starts from a few small streams near Lantern Road. From there, the river flows south, passing by Twin River Road. Then, it flows into a place called Wenscott Reservoir.
After leaving the reservoir, the West River takes a winding path, heading east and southeast through North Providence. Finally, it reaches the city of Providence. In Providence, the West River joins the Moshassuck River, just north of the city's downtown area.
What Streams Join the West River?
The West River has one main stream that flows into it, which is called Angell Brook. This is its only named tributary. A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. Even though Angell Brook is the only one with a name, many other small, unnamed streams also feed water into the West River along its journey.
Images for kids
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The West River just below the Wenscott Reservoir Dam in North Providence.
