“Farmer’s crossing.” That’s essentially what Williams Bridge was all about. This neighborhood in the Bronx owes its name to John Williams. He was an 18th-century farmer. Williams built a bridge over the Bronx River. This made it easier for farmers to transport goods.
Williams Bridge is more than just a name. It’s a place with a rich history. The New York City Parks Department confirms the story of John Williams. He owned a farm east of the Bronx River near Gun Hill Road. His bridge was the first in the area.
Williams Bridge officially became a village on November 23, 1888. The area around Olinville Avenue was once known as Olinville. It was named after Methodist Episcopal minister Stephen Olin. The name “Olinville” still exists in telephone exchanges. You can find OLinville 2, 3, 4, and 5. These translate to 652, 653, 654, and 655.
Williams Bridge Road is a major street running north to south in the Bronx. It doesn’t cross the Bronx River today. The road starts at Adee Avenue near White Plains Road. It extends south for about 12 miles. It ends at Westchester Square by Owen F. Dolen Park.
The original Williams Bridge no longer stands. It was a toll bridge east of Eastchester. It likely stood south of Shoelace Park near Gun Hill Road. Williamsbridge Square is on the west side of the Bronx River. It has been a New York City Parks property since 1900.
Despite the lore, John Williams may not have built the first bridge. A 1776 map shows at least five bridges over the Bronx River. These include Delancy’s Mill Bridge, Hunts Bridge and Valentine’s Bridge. Winter Hill Bridge and Chatterton’s Bridge are also noted. Some believe the Williams Bridge existed before John Williams owned the land. It may have been built in the 1670s.
Williams Bridge has changed over time. It was once heavily Jewish and Italian-American. In the 1970s, it became predominantly African American. Since the 1980s, many Caribbean and West Indian immigrants have moved here.
Williams Bridge is part of Bronx Community Board 12. The ZIP Codes are 10466, 10467, and 10469. The 47th Precinct of the New York City Police Department patrols the area.
Williams Bridge offers a mix of housing. You will find multi-family homes and moderate-sized buildings. Most residences are private. They are owner-occupied two- and three-story homes. The area is generally flat and low-lying.
The Seventh Draft District World War I Monument is at East 219th Street and Bronx Blvd. Memorial Day services have been held here since 2009.
Williams Bridge is served by two fire stations. Engine Co. 62/Ladder Co. 32 is at 3431 White Plains Road. Engine Co. 63/Ladder Co. 39/Battalion 15 is at 755 East 233rd Street.
So, as you wander through Williams Bridge, remember John Williams. He built a bridge. It connected communities. It helped shape this vibrant Bronx neighborhood.