The Old Bynum Bridge
The most popular place to visit in Bynum is the bridge. It’s covered with graffiti, with art in memorial of Northwood student Carver Meyer; “RIP CEM” or “Class of 2016” designs. As people come and go, memories remain with art on the bridge. The view over the river is blissful, and when the sun is setting while on top of the bridge, a picture-perfect memory is formed.“The Haw River is very peaceful. It’s my favorite place in Chatham County,” senior Savannah Jenkins said.
The Haw River
The Haw River is located inside the beautiful neighborhood of Bynum. The area began as a cotton mill town with nothing but the original mill built beside the river in 1872. Through this, Bynum was one of the first places in Chatham County to have electric lights. The turbines were built for the mill to have extra power. This former mill is now apart of the Lower Haw River State Area. It’s a popular place to visit, with a canoe pull-in and several hiking trails around the area.
Bynum bridge is typically filled with pot lucks, gatherings and fun activities throughout the year. During Halloween, Bynum features carved pumpkins all across the bridge. “Pittsboro artists bring carved pumpkins on Halloween night with bright lights in them; it’s great to see,” senior Valentina Moreno said. “I like how it’s so dark that you can only see the pumpkins at night.”
Friday Night Live
During the warmer months, from May to September, Bynum hosts the Friday Night Music Series under the Front Porch. This yearly event began through the support from the Chatham Arts Council. It’s a great place to bring the family under an open sky to enjoy local vendors, beautiful music and the people around you. Anyone is invited to listen to the music from 7 to 9 p.m. and there is no entry fee. The music ranges from gospel and folk to blues, rockabilly and bluegrass.
Community Garden and Beyond
There are other places to roam around in this neighborhood besides the bridge. The Community Garden is a developed area used by the residents of Bynum. There is always fresh produce being grown year around, and wildflowers are common. Beside the garden, a baseball field and playground are often used by local kids. This sense of community gives Bynum it’s lively appeal. These are fun places to adventure with friends, take a walk or just explore.
– By Lara Summers