Foxhurst in the Bronx in Bronx County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Bronx River: Then and Now
The Bronx River is 23 miles long, beginning in Westchester County and flowing to the Long Island Sound. It is the only freshwater river in New York City. Before European settlement, the Lenape people lived in this area. The Bronx River had many turns and bends. In 1639, Jonas Bronck, a wealthy Swedish sea captain, purchased 500 acres for farming. Later, the river was straightened to let large commercial ships pass through. Originally called Aquehung (River of High Bluffs), it was renamed Bronck's River.
Bronx River Restoration
Over time, the Bronx River was altered by construction and pollution. NYC Parks, the Bronx River Alliance, and many community partners continue to clean the river and restore native fish and wildlife habitat. Alewife fish are a native species released into the river to restore the ecosystem.
Erected by NYC Parks; Bronx River Alliance.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Indigenous Peoples and Communities • Settlements & Settlers • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the NYC Parks series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1639.
Location. 40° 49.988′ N,
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in New York City. It is also in the American Mid-Atlantic. Globally, it is in North America and the Western World. Historically, it finds itself in what was once one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Captain William Harry Thompson Park (approx. 0.2 miles away); Railroads Over the Bronx River (approx. 0.3 miles away); Edible Food Forest (approx. half a mile away); Bryant Triangle (approx. 0.6 miles away); Roca de Salvacion Christian Church (approx. 0.6 miles away); Longfellow Playground (approx. 0.6 miles away); Happy Land Social Club Fire Memorial (approx. 0.7 miles away); Jonas Salk (approx. 0.7 miles away). Touch for a list and map
Credits. This page was last revised on June 15, 2025. It was originally submitted on June 10, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 140 times since then and 22 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 10, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
