THE NORTH RIVER BRIDGE Co. GROUND BROKEN JUNE 8th 1895 FIRST FOUNDATION MASONRY LAID JUNE 18th 1895

This plaque commemorates key early milestones in the development of the North River Bridge. It notes the ground breaking on June 8th, 1895, and the laying of the first foundation masonry on June 18th, 1895. These dates mark the initial physical work on what was intended to be a significant infrastructure project. The plaque serves as a permanent record of the foundational steps taken by The North River Bridge Co. more than a century ago, highlighting the ambition and commencement of this notable endeavor in New York's history. It quietly testifies to the early stages of a project that aimed to connect the city.

The late 19th century in New York City was a period of rapid expansion and ambitious urban planning, with numerous large-scale infrastructure projects being conceived and undertaken to facilitate growth and connectivity. Bridge construction, in particular, was a prominent feature of this era, reflecting a drive to overcome geographical barriers and integrate the burgeoning metropolis. The North River, synonymous with the lower Hudson River, was a crucial waterway whose crossing presented both engineering challenges and opportunities for urban development. Memorials like this plaque, recording the genesis of such projects, were typical of the era, marking moments of civic pride and technological achievement as New York asserted its status as a global city.

This commemorative plaque is situated within New York City. Visitors can locate it at the specified address, offering an opportunity to view a piece of the city's infrastructural history. When visiting, one can observe the plaque and reflect on the early stages of a significant engineering project. The setting allows for respectful viewing of the inscription that details the initial work carried out by The North River Bridge Co. It is accessible for those wishing to explore historical markers related to New York's development.