Elevated above the Bronx River, the Burke Avenue Bridge stands as a vital link. This isn’t just a bridge. It’s a gateway to the past, connecting the vibrant neighborhoods of Allerton and Williamsbridge. Burke Avenue Bridge isn’t simply concrete and steel. It carries with it the echoes of the Bronx’s rich history. The bridge’s story intertwines with the IRT White Plains Road Line, a testament to New York City’s ambitious expansion of its subway system. Burke Avenue Bridge witnessed the line’s extension in 1917. Imagine those early days. A four-car shuttle ferrying passengers, bringing rapid transit to the eager communities of Williamsbridge and Wakefield for the very first time. Burke Avenue Bridge wasn’t just a static structure then. It was a part of this dynamic growth, a symbol of progress. Burke Avenue Bridge has seen renovations too. In the mid-2000s, it underwent a significant facelift. The work cost roughly $12.48 million, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to preserving this crucial artery. The bridge also carries a vibrant display of public art. Look closely at the stained glass panels. They depict scenes from literature written by authors connected to the Bronx. Authors like Sholom Aleichem, James Baldwin, Nicholasa Mohr, and Edgar Allan Poe. These literary giants, their words and worlds, add another layer of meaning to the Burke Avenue Bridge. The bridge isn’t just a transit point. It’s a cultural landmark, reflecting the literary spirit of the Bronx.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to