Sunday Series: Bronx River Ruins

Welcome to Sunday Series, a photographic look at Bronxville, Tuckahoe and Eastchester through the lens of Bronxville-based photographer Jay Wilson. Every week, we'll post a new photo, taken by Wilson, depicting life in the three communities.

July 18: I've been fascinated by ruins since visiting the remains of centuries-old castles in England when I was a kid. While our American ruins are significantly younger and less imposing than those "across the pond," they still convey a sense of mystery and intrigue. 

Biking or hiking along the Bronx River, one comes upon a series of markers for an audio tour sponsored by the Friends of Westchester County Parks. 

Audio Tour Stop number 25, just north of Pondfield Road, is Swain's Mill. The ruins of this mill can be seen down the ravine, on the opposite side of the river.  Purchased by James Prescott Swain in 1844, it used water power to produce screws and axles.

It's not Stonehenge, admittedly, but it's our own little reminder of the history of the area, and worth a considered look the next time you're out for a stroll or bike ride along the river.

 Jay Wilson is  a fairly recent transplant to Bronxville, having moved here in 2006 after spending a decade living in Manhattan. He began studying photography in high school, and has been passionate about the medium ever since. Currently, he shoots with a Pentax Digital SLR. You can see more of his work online at jbw-photo.com.