Wing River (Leaf River tributary) facts for kids
The Wing River is a river in west-central Minnesota, USA. It flows for about 48 miles (77 kilometers). This river is like a smaller stream that flows into a bigger one, the Leaf River. From there, its water eventually joins the Crow Wing River and then the mighty Mississippi River. This means the Wing River is part of the huge area of land that drains into the Mississippi River. A nearby area, Wing River Township, even got its name from the river!
Where the Wing River Flows
The Wing River starts its journey in Wing River Lake. This lake is located in southeastern Otter Tail County. From there, the river generally flows towards the northeast. It travels through parts of Todd County and Wadena County. The river also flows past the small town of Hewitt. Finally, the Wing River joins the Leaf River from the south. This meeting point is in Wing River Township, in Wadena County.
The River's History and People
The Leaf River, which the Wing River flows into, was a very important travel route. It was used by people in west-central Minnesota long ago. The Dakota and Ojibwe people used the Leaf River's path. They also used a special portage, or carrying path, called the Otter-tail Portage. This path connected West Leaf Lake with Otter Tail Lake. It helped them reach other waterways that led to the Red River of the North.
In 1847, the Ojibwe people agreed to give up some land south of the Leaf River. The United States government wanted to create a home for the Menomini people there. However, there were often conflicts between the Ojibwe and the Dakota people in the area. Because of these ongoing issues, the Menomini people decided not to move there. They chose to stay in Wisconsin instead.
