High Bridge, which was part of the original Croton Aqueduct system, carried fresh water across the Harlem River from the Bronx to Manhattan. Finished six years after the completion of the aqueduct itself (a temporary siphon carried the water across the river while the bridge was being built), its design was influenced by the typical ancient Roman aqueduct. The engineering of the bridge was monumental because, at the time of its construction, the length and height of a grade-level crossing demanded an enormous structure, the size of which had not been built in the United States. Upon its completion in
1848, the bridge and surrounding areas of the future High Bridge Park quickly became a recreation destination for people from throughout the region. Its pedestrian walkway, scenic views and monumental profile were repeated prolifically in paintings, drawings and etchings. Since the 1960s the bridge has been closed to the public because of structural and safety issues.
