Across the bustling hum of the Hutchinson River Parkway, Split Rock rests silently. It has witnessed centuries of change. Split Rock is more than just a massive boulder cleaved in two. It’s a living testament to the dramatic events that shaped this land. Split Rock stands as a silent sentinel. It whispers tales of survival, conflict, and the enduring power of nature.
Split Rock is nestled within Pelham Bay Park. This massive glacial erratic has earned a prominent place in the history of the Bronx. The historical marker within the park tells Split Rock’s story. It begins with Anne Hutchinson. She and her daughter, Susannah, sought refuge in its crevice during a Siwanoy Native American attack in 1643. Tragically, Anne lost her life. Young Susannah survived, sheltered by the very rock we stand before.
Split Rock also witnessed the Battle of Pell’s Point in 1776. Colonel John Glover strategically positioned his troops behind stone walls near Split Rock. This clever tactic helped secure General George Washington’s retreat to White Plains. Remnants of these walls still exist near Split Rock, a tangible link to this pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War.
Split Rock stands near the Thomas Pell Wildlife Sanctuary. This 375-acre sanctuary protects the vital wetlands of Pelham Bay Park. The sanctuary, named after the first European to control the land, harbors a diverse ecosystem. It boasts raccoon, egrets, hawks, ibis, and even coyotes. It’s also a haven for rare plant species. You can find yellow thistle and holy grass thriving at the intersection of salt marsh and forest.
A dedicated Split Rock Trail meanders for 1.5 miles through the park. It winds from the Bartow traffic circle, through the Goose Creek Marsh, and the Thomas Pell Wildlife Sanctuary, finally arriving at Split Rock. The trail closely follows the path of the old Split Rock Road. This road, once a Siwanoy Trail between City Island and Pelham, now lies within the Split Rock Golf Course.
Split Rock holds a wealth of stories. It links us to Anne Hutchinson’s struggle for religious freedom. It reminds us of the conflicts between Native Americans and European settlers. It commemorates a key strategic maneuver during the Revolutionary War. As you gaze upon this split boulder, remember its layered history. It’s a story etched in stone, echoing through the centuries.