Ever heard of a park with a waterfall in the Bronx? Here we are at Seton Falls Park. This 35-acre wooded area offers a surprising escape within New York City.
Seton Falls Park is named after the Seton family. Elizabeth Ann Seton was a member. They owned this land back in the 19th century. Let’s explore its fascinating history.
Before this was a park, the Siwanoy Native Americans lived here. Later, a Roosevelt family ancestor owned the land. It eventually passed to the Setons through marriage.
William Seton played a key role in shaping this landscape. He dammed Rattlesnake Creek. This created two ponds and a waterfall. The estate was known as The Cedars. It was later called Cragdon. This was because of the many red cedar trees.
Did you know Seton sent food to Ireland during the Great Famine? He shipped meal, flour, potatoes and apples. They sailed from New York Harbor. What a generous act.
The city annexed the area in 1894. The Seton estate was divided into lots. The city acquired the land in 1914. It officially became a park in 1930.
For fifteen years, the city wanted to build a hospital here. Residents opposed the idea. Eventually, it became Seton Falls Park.
Rattlesnake Brook flows through the park. It’s the only above-ground section of the creek. The waterfall here is actually artificial.
Take a walk along the brook. You might spot frogs, turtles and waterfowl. Seton Falls Park Preserve is a habitat for over 30 bird species.
The park wasn’t always in great shape. By 1970, it was in disrepair. Garbage blocked Rattlesnake Creek. Vandalism was common.
One resident said the park suffered from criminal neglect. People dumped trash and didn’t care. Thankfully, restoration efforts began in 1978.
In 1981, Rattlesnake Creek was diverted into the sewer system during renovations. Later, the culvert was repaired. The park gained more land in 1983 and 1985.
In the mid-1990s, Charles Oakley wanted to convert Seton Falls Park into a recreational facility. Christine Foreman formed the Seton Falls Park Preservation Coalition. She wanted to clean up the park instead.
The park was restored between 2007 and 2008. The Croton Filtration Plant Mitigation Fund provided the money. This was in exchange for building the Croton Water Filtration Plant under Van Cortlandt Park.
Seton Falls Park has been used for various events in the 21st century. These include park ranger tours and movie screenings. There have also been volunteer clean-ups.
Due to its seclusion, Seton Falls Park has a dark side. Sadly, it has been used as a dumping ground for bodies. There have also been instances of other crimes.
Despite its challenges, Seton Falls Park offers a natural escape. It’s a place where you can connect with nature. Consider the history as you explore.