A natural limestone bridge spanning Arch Creek served as a crossing place for prehistoric Tequesta Indians, Seminole War soldiers, and early pioneers. It was a natural wonder of great beauty and a scenic gathering place from which one of Dade County's first towns eventually sprang. In 1858, early pioneers excavated a mill sluice there to divert water to grind coontie for starch production. The South Florida Water Management District later constructed a dam to alter the present water intrusion into the fresh water supply.