Wildcat Creek (Grand River tributary) facts for kids
Wildcat Creek is a small stream located in the northwestern part of Missouri. It flows through two counties: Gentry County and Nodaway County. This creek is a branch, or tributary, of the larger Grand River.
The Journey of Wildcat Creek
Wildcat Creek begins its journey in the eastern part of Nodaway County. Its starting point, also called its "headwaters," is about two miles southeast of a small community named Ravenwood. From there, the stream flows generally towards the south and southeast.
As it continues, Wildcat Creek passes under a main road called US Route 136. This happens about 3.5 miles east of the town of Conception. After this point, the creek turns and starts flowing more towards the east, crossing into Gentry County.
The stream then flows south of the town of Stanberry and goes under another important road, US Route 169. Wildcat Creek keeps moving east until it finally joins the Grand River. This meeting point is about 1.5 miles west of the community of McCurry.
How Wildcat Creek Got Its Name
Have you ever wondered how places get their names? For Wildcat Creek, there's a fun story! People say that the creek was named after an early settler who lived in the area a long time ago. This settler was known for really liking to eat wildcat meat. Because of his unusual taste, the creek nearby became known as Wildcat Creek.