Stairs to Nowhere

These stairs once led to a footbridge that straddled the river to two homes on the opposite side.  The mailboxes and area where they parked are on this side of the river.  I never understood how they carried groceries and large items across, let alone got any major repairs done.  Perhaps there's another way to reach them on the other side, but why then, have all this?

The houses are now for sale, so I thought I'd blip the stairs while I could. 

Nothing for Tiny Tuesday I'm afraid.