Upon the northeast side of the town is a singular chain of ponds, the largest of which is called Cross pond ; it is supplied by several springs, and has its outlet in Cross river. The other ponds in succession, are the Round pond, the Middle J) ond and the Loicer pond, all communicating with one another. From the Lower pond^ is an outlet into Tatomuck river, which empties into the sound at Stamford in Connecticut. The south western part of the town is richly interspersed with hills and valleys, and much running water.

16 HISTORY OF THE

This township is situated directly in the south east angle of Westchester county, bordering the soui'.d, boiuided on the east by the state of Connecticut and the Byrani river, on the south by the sound, and on the west and north by the townships of Harrison and Norihcastle.

In the year IGljO, the lands of Rye were in the possession of Shanasock well or Shanorocke (as he subsequently signed his name) an independent chinfiain of the Siwanoys, whose clan formed a portion, if not oneof the Mohegan tribes itself, of the "sea coast." This chief with his followers, was residing on the banks of the Hudson River, in 1661.

Poningoe, the Indian name of Rye, is apparently derived from Ponus, the title of the aboriginal proprietor of this territory, A. D. 1640. Tile final termination oe or oug, denoting locality.

Thus the whole word may emphatically express the place or locality of that Sachem's residence. Nothing however remains at this late period, to establish the connection with any degree of certainty. Ponus himself, was one of the ruling Sagamores of Rippowams, (Stamford) in 1640. This individual left issue, three sous, Owenoke, Taphance and Onox ; the latter had one son, Powhag.