The concrete construction near the Yarkon Railway bridge is a historical guard post associated with the Petah Tikva to Rosh HaAyin railway, particularly significant during the Arab Revolt of 1936-1939. This period was marked by widespread unrest and conflict in the region.
Historically, after World War I, Rosh HaAyin emerged as a station on the Haifa-Quneitra railway line. This development spurred the desire to enhance the transportation of citrus goods directly to Egypt, leading to the construction of the railway line from Petah Tikva to Rosh HaAyin.
The pillbox near the Yarkon Railway bridge is a historical military guard post. This small, concrete fortification was part of a strategic effort to protect the railway line connecting Petah Tikva to Rosh HaAyin.
The name "pillbox," rather than relating to medicine, originated from a linguistic mix-up in Hebrew. The original English term "Field Box" was mispronounced as "Pil Box," with "pil" meaning "elephant" in Hebrew. This naming ironically reflected the structure's large and robust nature. Pillboxes like this one served as defensive positions for the railway guard against Arab rioters and were a part of the “Railway Notary Corps.” These structures, with their compact and sturdy design, were crucial in maintaining the safety and operational continuity of the railway during a period of significant upheaval and conflict in the region.
Hiking along the Yarkon River in central Israel, from Petah Tikva to the old railway station in Rosh HaAyin, offers a picturesque and historically rich experience. This trail winds through scenic fields and orange groves, unveiling unique moments of both history and nature. Key attractions along the route include old mills, the concrete house, Kfar Baptistim, and two national parks: the Yarkon River Sources and Tel Afek Antipatris. Along the trail, there are two rest areas for hikers to relax and enjoy the region's inspiring natural beauty and captivating stories.