Yeocomico River facts for kids

The Yeocomico River is a short river, about 1.1 miles (1.8 km) long. It's a special kind of river called a tidal tributary. This means its water levels change with the ocean tides. The Yeocomico flows into the southern part of the Potomac River in a region of Virginia called the Northern Neck.

This river creates the border between Westmoreland and Northumberland counties. The name 'Yeocomico' comes from Native American languages. It roughly means "tossed to and fro by the waters." Some people think it's an Algonquian word meaning "four dwelling places." This might be because the river has branches that split into forks.

Where the River Begins

The Yeocomico River starts where three smaller rivers meet. This meeting point is called a confluence. The three rivers that join to form the Yeocomico are:

• The Northwest Yeocomico River
• The West Yeocomico River
• The South Yeocomico River

History of the Yeocomico River

The War of 1812

During the War of 1812, the Yeocomico River saw some action. In August 1814, a group of British soldiers, known as the Royal Marines, came to the river's entrance. They raided the area. This event ended with them capturing four ships called schooners. This happened near the town of Kinsale, Virginia.

Rivers that Flow into the Yeocomico

Many smaller streams and creeks flow into the Yeocomico River. These are called tributaries. Here are some of them:

• Northwest Yeocomico River
  • Shannon Branch
  • White Point Creek
• West Yeocomico River
  • Kinsale Branch
  • Hampton Hall Branch
  • Long Cove
  • Wilkins Creek
• South Yeocomico River
  • Mill Creek
    • Drum Cove
  • Lodge Creek
    • Dungan Cove
  • Palmer Cove
    • Cornish Creek
• Parkers Creek