New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx in Bronx County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Thain Family Forest
You are standing at the edge of the largest enduring tract of the original woodland that once covered most of New York City. For thousands of years, this remarkable old-growth forest has changed, adapted, and survived. During your visit, you will see the marks left by glaciers thousands of years ago, walk along Native American hunting trails, and pass under trees dating back to the American Revolution.
In 1895 founding director Nathaniel Lord Britton selected the land on which you are now standing as the site for The New York Botanical Garden in part because of the unique beauty of the native woodland. Today to 50-acre Forest remains a magnificent reminder of the resilience of nature in the face of complex human-caused disturbances. As you continue your journey you will discover a diverse natural ecosystem. While enjoying a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City, please help to preserve this forest for future generations:
Do stay on the paths
Do watch for birds and other wildlife
Do put all trash in receptacles
Don't feed the birds or other wildlife
Don't climb trees and rocks
Don't pick flowers, leaves, or branches
Click or scan to see
this page online
[Captions:]
⚪ Orientation Point
Begin your visit at the heart of the Forest, where you can learn about this rare natural treasure and plan your route.
🟢 Spicebush Trail Overlook
Follow Spicebush Trail beneath towering historic trees to the overlook that offers stunning views of the Bronx River.
🟡 Hester Bridge
Stroll to Hester Bridge, a historic camelback structure that crosses the Bronx River, adjoining the two parts of the Forest along both sides of the riverbank.
🔵 Waterfall
The waterall, re-engineered in the 19th century by the Lorillard family to power their tobacco mill, is among the most picturesque Forest destinations.
🟠 Mill View Trail Overlook
The overlook on this new, accessible trail provides a tranquil spot for reflection and views the landmark Lillian and Amy Goldman Stone Mill, built in 1840.
Erected by New York Botanical Garden.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Horticulture & Forestry • Parks & Recreational Areas. A significant historical year for this entry is 1895.
Location. 40° 51.978′ N, 73° 52.551′ W.
Regionally, this marker is in New York City. It is also in the American Mid-Atlantic. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, the Western Hemisphere, and the Anglosphere. 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: An Outdoor Classroom and Laboratory (within shouting distance of this marker); Bear Den (within shouting distance of this marker); Measuring the Forest (within shouting distance of this marker); River Wildlife - Spicebush Overlook (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Southern Arrowwood (about 500 feet away); Old-Growth Forests: Trees of Great Age (about 600 feet away); American Elm (about 700 feet away); Forest Transects (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Bronx.
Also see . . .
1. Forest. (Submitted on July 11, 2025, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
2. Thain Family Forest - New York Botanical Garden. (Submitted on July 11, 2025, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
Credits. This page was last revised on August 5, 2025. It was originally submitted on July 11, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 91 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 11, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
