Get ready to embark on a journey honoring exceptional women who’ve left an indelible mark on the rich depth of Niagara Falls history. As we approach International Women’s Day on March 8th, 2025, it’s time to shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of these five inspiring figures. From social and economic achievements to cultural and political influence, these women have played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of Niagara Falls. Join us in celebrating their legacy and the countless ways they’ve shaped the community we know today.

Annie Edson Taylor

For her 63rd birthday on October 24th, 1901, Annie Taylor became the first woman and the first person ever to successfully conquer the Niagara Falls in a barrel. Taylor used a custom-made barrel for her trip, constructed of oak and iron and padded with a mattress.
She was hoping to achieve fame and riches. She did assume fame for sure, but unfortunately she died in poverty on April 29, 1921 at the age of 82.

After her 20 minute minute trip within the barrel, she told the press:

“If it was with my dying breath, I would caution anyone against attempting the feat… I would sooner walk up to the mouth of a cannon, knowing it was going to blow me to pieces than make another trip over the Falls.” – Annie Taylor

Laura Secord

Laura Secord was a Canadian heroine during the War of 1812. She is known for having walked 20 miles (32 km) out of American-occupied territory in 1813 to warn British forces of an impending American attack.

On June 21st, 1813, Laura Secord overheard of plans for a surprise American attack on British troops at Beaver Dams, which would have gained more American control in the Niagara region. As her husband was still recovering from his own war injuries, Secord set out herself early the next morning to warn the Lieutenant. She walked from present-day Queenston through St. Davids, Homer, Shipman’s Corners and Short Hills at the Niagara Escarpment before she arrived at the camp of allied Mohawk warriors who led her the rest of the way to the headquarters at the DeCew House. A small British force and a larger contingent of Mohawk warriors were then readied for the American attack.

The Real “Maid of the Mist”

Have you ever wondered how the “Maid of the Mist” got its name?

There’s a Native American Myth behind it.

There are a few different variations, but one is that a young and suicidal Seneca Native girl, named Lelawala, entered a canoe with every intention of going over the Falls after the loss of her husband. She was rescued by “Heno” the Thunder God, who invited her to live with him and his sons under the Falls. Under secrecy, the sons told her of a dangerous serpent that lived under the water. The serpent would poison the water in which her people drank from. Anxiously, she returned to tell her people that they were to drink only from the springs and when the night of the serpent’s visit arrived, they were to destroy the god snake with spears, tomahawks, bows and arrows. They successfully battled the snake and upon returning to his lair in the river, the snake got his head caught on one side of the river and its tail got caught on the other side. In its violent death throes, it formed a semi-circle in the shape of a horseshoe on the brink resulting in the Horseshoe Falls.

Lelawala returned to the cave of the God Heno, where she reigns to this day as the Maid of the Mist.

Maria Spelterini

Maria Spelterini was a 23-year-old Italian tightrope walker who was and still is the only woman to cross the Niagara Gorge on a tightrope, which she did on July 8, 1876 as part of a celebration of the U.S. Centennial.

She crossed by using a 5.7 cm wire located just north of the lower suspension bridge.

After the first success, Maria Spelterini began to up the ante. On July 12th 1876, Spelterini crossed wearing peach baskets strapped to her feet (see above photo). One week later, she crossed blind folded and only three days later, Spelterini crossed with her ankles and wrists handcuffed.

On July 26th 1876, Maria Spelterini made her farewell crossing in Niagara Falls.

Theodosia Burr Alston

*Portrait by John Vanderlyn*

Theodosia Burr Alston was born on June 21, 1783, and was the daughter of US Vice President Aaron Burr. In 1801, she married Joseph Alston, a wealthy landowner from South Carolina. 

Under her suggestion, they honeymooned at Niagara Falls, becoming the first recorded couple to do so. After this, they inspired Jerome Bonaparte, Napoleon’s younger brother, and his bride, Elizabeth Patterson, to honeymoon at the Falls 3 years later. This became the start of a trend — and Niagara Falls soon became known as the “Honeymoon Capital of the World.”

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Niagara Falls has captivated visitors for centuries, drawing travelers from around the globe to witness its breathtaking beauty. But the allure of the Falls extends beyond their powerful cascade—it’s also a story of transformation and timeless charm. A fascinating glimpse into Niagara’s rich past can be found in historical photographs that reveal a bygone era of exploration, innovation, and natural wonder. These images, meticulously curated, not only highlight the evolution of this iconic destination but also inspire a deeper appreciation for its enduring appeal.

If you’re planning a trip to Niagara Falls, diving into its history through these stunning photographs is a perfect way to enrich your experience. From the early days of daredevils braving the roaring waters to the development of Clifton Hill as the vibrant entertainment hub it is today, these snapshots from the past connect us to a legacy that makes every visit to Niagara unforgettable.

A Glimpse of Days Past: Exploring Historic Frozen Views

Prospect Point, 1860s

Early visitors to Prospect Point grace the foreground, with the iconic photostand of Platt D. Babbitt in the backdrop. Babbitt, an acclaimed American photographer born in 1822, carved his legacy with captivating daguerreotypes and ambrotypes of Niagara Falls. This frozen snapshot from the 1860s is a testament to Babbitt’s pioneering work, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s early photographic history. (Photo courtesy of the Niagara Falls Library)

Winter Wonderland Journey, 1885

Captured by Herman F. Nielson in 1885, this photograph showcases Niagara Falls in the midst of winter. Imagine a time when the falls would freeze sufficiently to create an ice bridge, spanning around 30 to 100 feet deep. Fearless individuals ventured onto the frozen expanse, traversing from one side to the other. The frozen beauty becomes a canvas for exploration and shared experiences. (Photo courtesy of Historic Niagara Falls)

Concession Stands on Ice, 1910

In the winter of 1910, the frozen landscape of Niagara Falls transformed into a bustling marketplace on ice. Concessionaires, braving the elements, set up huts and shanties made of wood on the frozen bridge. These makeshift stalls offered a variety of treats, from warm tea and coffee to souvenirs and even liquor. The photograph not only freezes a moment in time but captures the entrepreneurial spirit amidst the icy grandeur. (Photo courtesy of Niagara Falls Archives)

Frozen Wonderland Expedition, 1883

Adventurers stand beneath the icicled Niagara Falls, surrounded by an enchanting frozen wonderland. The photo, circa 1883, encapsulates the allure of exploring the icy domes beneath the falls, creating a magical tableau that echoes through the ages.

Icy Spectacle of 1885

A frozen panorama of Niagara Falls in 1885 transports us back to an era where nature’s grandeur embraced the wintry chill. The cascading waters suspended in icy stillness evoke a serene yet powerful spectacle that defines the essence of winter at the falls. (Photo courtesy of Vintage Niagara Collection

Step Into the Past: Reliving Niagara’s Winter Magic

Exploring the history of Niagara Falls through vintage photographs provides a meaningful connection to its legacy, enhancing any trip to this world-famous destination. The stories captured in these images remind us of the generations of visitors who have stood in awe of the Falls, making their own memories along its misty shores.

Whether you’re marveling at the natural power of the Falls, enjoying the attractions on Clifton Hill, or uncovering the region’s hidden historical gems, Niagara continues to be a destination that bridges the past and the present. Let these photographs inspire you to create your own timeless moments, ensuring your visit to Niagara Falls is as unforgettable as the images that celebrate its history.

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The Winter Festival of Lights has become a beloved tradition in Niagara Falls, attracting millions of visitors each year. But how much do you know about its origins?

Early Beginnings in Niagara Falls, New York

The story of the festival dates back to 1980, when it began as the “Festival of Lights” on the U.S. side of Niagara Falls. Lasting 44 days, it was a community-driven event supported by sponsorship from the local tourism industry and countless volunteers.

Highlights included a nine-story “OxyLights” display synchronized to Christmas music, the illumination of the Nabisco silos as the “Nabisco Fantasy of Lights,” and thousands of lights strung along Old Falls Street and Lackey Plaza. Indoor attractions featured animated displays covering 15,000 square feet in the Niagara Falls Convention Center and Carborundum Center.

Despite its charm, the U.S. Festival of Lights faced financial challenges and ended in 2004 due to insufficient sponsorship funding.

A New Beginning in Niagara Falls, Ontario

During its inaugural year, the Festival featured a modest collection of lighting displays near the Falls, drawing approximately 250,000 visitors. Encouraged by its success, the event expanded annually, becoming a cherished winter tradition for families and friends.

Recognizing the potential for a major tourist draw, Niagara Falls, Ontario, introduced its own version of the event in 1983, initially called the “Festival of Lights” before rebranding to the “Winter Festival of Lights” in 1985. This collaboration between the Niagara Falls Canada Visitor and Convention Bureau, the City of Niagara Falls, and the Niagara Parks Commission debuted with a modest $18,000 budget. In its first year, it welcomed 250,000 visitors and 35 motor coaches.

Today, the festival is in its 42nd year and draws over 1 million annual visitors, along with 750 motor coaches.

Memorable Milestones

• Disney Partnership (1992-2013): In 1992, the Festival introduced the “Enchantment of Disney,” a partnership with Disney that brought over 20 animated displays of classic Disney characters to Queen Victoria Park. These displays, along with opening ceremonies featuring Disney characters, delighted visitors for more than two decades before being discontinued in 2013 when Disney restricted character appearances to its theme parks.
• Night Parade of Lights (1998-2006): For nearly a decade, the festival featured a weekly parade with illuminated floats. In 2006, funds were reallocated to enhance park lighting and displays.
• Sponsor Contributions: Over the years, sponsors like CAA (2010-2012) and Ontario Power Generation (2013 to 2019) have helped elevate the festival.

Over the years, the Festival embraced new themes and experiences, including Korean lantern displays, artistic installations, and interactive light features. In 2020, the Festival doubled its inventory of displays, and in 2021, it extended its duration from 54 nights to 101, offering more opportunities for visitors to experience its magic.

Today’s Winter Festival of Lights

Today, the Winter Festival of Lights transforms Niagara Falls into a dazzling wonderland of color and light from mid-November through early January. Stretching along the Niagara Parkway from Dufferin Islands to tourist districts like Fallsview Boulevard and Lundy’s Lane, the Festival features millions of lights, larger-than-life displays, and interactive experiences for all ages.

Highlights include over 50 massive displays, such as Canadian wildlife scenes, the towering two-storey Zimmerman Fountain, a 40-foot light tunnel, and an illuminated castle. Many trees along the Niagara Parkway are wrapped in vibrant lights, creating a picturesque setting that enhances the festive atmosphere.

The Festival is organized by Niagara Falls Tourism in partnership with the Province of Ontario, Tourism Partnership of Niagara, the Niagara Parks Commission, and local Business Improvement Areas. Corporate sponsors, including Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation, the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission, Ontario Power Generation, and Cogeco, provide additional support to make the Festival a reality.

Land Acknowledgement

Niagara Falls Tourism and the Winter Festival of Lights respectfully acknowledge that this event takes place on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples. These lands, covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement, are home to many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities today. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the region’s history and the ongoing relationship with Indigenous peoples whose resources and friendship contribute to our standard of living.

Awards and Recognition

The Winter Festival of Lights has received numerous accolades over the years, including:

• Event of the Year
• Top Festival/Event in Ontario
• Best Volunteer Program
• Most Innovative Partnership
• Events of Distinction Award from Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO)

The American Bus Association (ABA) has also recognized the Festival as one of its Top 100 Internationally Known Events. These awards reflect the Festival’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences and fostering community pride.

The Winter Festival of Lights continues to enchant visitors with its vibrant displays and festive spirit, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Niagara Falls’ winter tourism season.

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Niagara Falls remembers Russell Sanderson, a devoted local veteran and a hero who served in the Second World War. Known for his bravery and dedication, Russell was a sniper and scout in The Black Watch Royal Highland Regiment of Canada. He spent his life honoring the memory of his fallen comrades, making a point to visit the Clifton Hill Cenotaph every year.

Russell passed away in 2016 at the age of 90, but his legacy lives on. His wife, Marie, continues his tradition of paying respects each year at the Cenotaph at the base of Clifton Hill, near Queen Victoria Park. This Cenotaph, now a place of reflection for both visitors and locals, serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans like Russell.

One of the benches nearby, donated by community philanthropist Bob Gale, stands as a tribute to Russell and all those who have served. It’s a place where visitors can sit and remember the incredible courage it takes to serve, especially in moments like those Russell faced in the Netherlands. In 1945, he found himself alone and surrounded by German soldiers in Groningen. Quick thinking led him to make it seem as though a Canadian force was nearby, causing the enemy to retreat and ultimately saving his life.

Honoring Service and Sacrifice: The Clifton Hill Cenotaph

The Clifton Hill Cenotaph holds a central place in Niagara Falls’ Remembrance Day observances. On November 11th, locals gather here at 11:00 a.m. to honor all veterans, including Russell Sanderson, who embodied the courage and resilience that defines the Canadian spirit. This year, the service will once again bring the community together to pay tribute to those who served, including the 7,600 Canadians who lost their lives in the liberation of the Netherlands during WWII.

This Remembrance Day, consider stopping by Clifton Hill to visit the Cenotaph and reflect on the stories of veterans like Russell. It’s a meaningful way to connect with local history and honor those who served.

For those unable to make it to Clifton Hill, a service will also be held at 10:45 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery (4501 Stanley Avenue), opposite the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The ceremony will be live-streamed, allowing all to take part in the remembrance from wherever they are.

To watch the live stream, see below:

A Lasting Legacy

Russell Sanderson’s dedication to honoring his comrades continues to resonate in Niagara Falls. Though he is missed by family and friends both in Canada and in the Netherlands, his spirit remains a part of the community. His story stands as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of our veterans and the importance of remembering their sacrifices.

This November 11th, whether at Clifton Hill, Fairview Cemetery, or watching from home, let us take a moment to remember Russell Sanderson and all the veterans who have served. Lest we forget.

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Tourism and the Falls have a long and rich history in Niagara. The majority of people in the 19th century considered a journey to Niagara Falls to be an unforgettable adventure. Throughout the years local businesses have kept this up by continually providing a fun and memorable experience for all visitors. Some of these memories include extreme events like daredevils crossing the Falls on a tightrope to the formation of the Niagara River ice bridge during the coldest winter months.

How much do you about know these major Niagara Falls events of the past? Take the quiz and find out! 

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The ice boom on the Niagara River began its retreat recently which means that the opening of Niagara City Cruises (Hornbower on the Canadian side), and the Maid of the Mist (US side) is here!

Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) opens March 28th, 2024 for the season and the Maid of the Mist is tentatively opening April 4th, 2024 with bookable dates starting now.

Both of these Niagara Falls Boat Tours are tremendously popular tourist attractions and are not to be missed this Spring!

Continue reading to review the timeline of the original Maid of the Mist boat tour (North America’s oldest tourist attraction), progressing to our current date which includes the addition of the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) boat tours.

1846 – The Maid of the Mist Ferry Service Launched

Crossing the Niagara River in order to transport people was unheard of until the introduction of small boats in 1834. On May 27th, 1846, the very first Maid of the Mist boat was first introduced, but not as a tourist attraction. It ferried people, cargo, and mail across the river for a small fee. However, making money in this regard was short-lived after the first Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge was completed.

1848 saw a temporary bridge introduced, and in 1854 a lower deck was opened for pedestrian and carriage purposes. Taking money away from the ferry, it was decided to turn the Maid of the Mist into a tourist attraction, allowing people to get as close to the Falls as possible.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour – 1st Generation (1854-1860)

On July 14th, 1854, a new Maid of the Mist was launched. This one was 72 feet long and featured a paddle boat engine rather than a sidewheel steam engine.

With business dwindling mainly as the result of the onslaught of the American Civil War (1861-1865), the boat was sold at a public auction to a Montreal firm in 1861.

However, the boat had to be successfully delivered to Lake Ontario, which meant it had to be navigated through the Great Gorge Rapids, the Whirlpool, and the Lower Rapids.

Captain Robinson undertook the frightening task on June 6th, 1861, and successfully made it through the rapids (although lost the smoke stack in the process).

Service was not restored until 1885 under a new partnership: The Maid of the Mist Steamboat Company.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 2nd Generation: 1885 – 1955

The second generation Maid of the Mist was launched in June of 1885 which reached closer to the Horseshoe Falls than its previous counterparts.

Then, an additional boat was unveiled in 1892 on the American side. These boats sailed until April 22, 1955, when they burned in an accident on the Canadian side.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 3rd Generation (1955 – 1990)

On July 28th, 1955, a third generation Maid of the Mist I (1955–1990) was introduced to replace the destroyed vessels — this time, it was made of steel and powered by diesel engines.

In June 1956, an additional Maid of the Mist steel boat was added to the fleet and was christened the Maid of the Mist II (1956 – 1983)

On July 9th, 1960 the Maid of the Mist II contributed to the heroic saving of 7 year old Roger Woodward, the boy who became the first person to survive a plunge over the Horseshoe Falls wearing only a life jacket. The Maid of the Mist II was just making its turn below the Falls when a crew member spotted the boy.

Captain Clifford Keech maneuvered the boat so the crew could successfully save Roger, who luckily only sustained a minor concession, and was in hospital for only 3 days. In 1983, the Maid of the Mist II was sold and it served as a Missionary ship on the Amazon River.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 4th Generation (1972 – Now)

Maid of the Mist III:
1972–1997

Maid of the Mist III takes to the water, carrying 210 passengers. This boat is a 65-foot-long, 65-ton vessel powered by two 250-horsepower diesel engines.

Maid of the Mist IV:
1976-2013

Maid of the Mist IV, a 300-passenger boat, is introduced. The new boat is 72 feet long, 24 feet wide, weighs 74 tons and is powered by two 250-horsepower diesel engines.

Maid of the Mist V:
1983-2013

Maid of the Mist V gives passengers the thrill of their lives. It’s all steel, 72 feet long, weighs 74 tons and powered by two 335-horsepower diesel engines to safely carry 300 passengers.

Maid of the Mist VI:
1990 – Present

In 1990, the Maid of the Mist VI was launched into service. The 145 tonne, 80 foot all steel double deck boat is capable of carrying 600 passengers at a time!

This made it the 10th Maid of the Mist boat to contribute to the Niagara Falls Boat Tours — and the largest, which is still running today. Accompanying boat VI was the addition of the Maid of the Mist VII on July 11th, 1997 (also still running today) at 80 feet and with the capacity to carry 600 passengers as well.

New York State Governor Saves the Maid in Late 2012

On December 4th, 2012, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo visited Niagara Falls, New York to make a major announcement: An agreement between Cuomo’s administration and the Maid of the Mist calls for the company to pay for $32 million in upgrades near the site of the former Schoellkopf power plant to turn the area into a winter storage dock for its two-boat American fleet.

On Thursday, October 26th, 2013, the Maid of the Mist did its final boat tour on the Canadian side. The business continues to operate from the US side of the gorge and departs from its dock just beyond the Rainbow Bridge. The Canadian side was replaced by Hornblower Niagara Cruises, a California-based company at the start of Spring of 2014.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour 5th Generation (Launched 2019)

New-build emission-free vessels was launched during 2019 season

In 2019, the Maid of the Mist launched the first two new all-electric, zero-emission passenger vessels constructed in the United States. The new catamaran-style vessels will provide more than 1.6 million guests from around the world with an up-close, iconic view of Niagara Falls. The vessels feature a wide stance, resulting in a smooth, quiet ride, allowing them to better enjoy the roar and majesty of Niagara Falls.

ABB, a pioneering technology leader in digital industries, will supply a comprehensive integrated power and propulsion solution for the newbuild vessels, including lithium-ion battery packs and an onshore charging system, enabling sustainable operation with maximum reliability.

Powered by ABB’s zero-emission technology, the two fully-electric vessels will take tourists to the heart of the Niagara Falls, undisturbed by engine noise or exhaust fumes. Batteries will be recharged for seven minutes after each trip to 80 percent capacity, allowing for maximum efficiency and battery life.

Maid of the Mist VI (1990) and Maid of the Mist VII (1997), were removed from service when the new vessels began operating.

Niagara City Cruises (Formery Hornblower): Launched in 2014

Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) offers two catamarans that carry approximately 700 people, and a third charter boat reserved specifically for private functions that carries approximately 150 passengers.

The Niagara City Cruises official ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Wednesday, May 14th, 2014 which showcased speeches by the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) CEO, Terry MacRae, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, Mory DiMaurizo, General Manager of Niagara Cruises and the Niagara Parks Commission chair, Janice Thomson. It officially opened the following day to excited crowds.

Wearing their red ponchos, locals and tourists alike flocked the Niagara City Cruise Plaza to become a part of history on its grand opening day. The distinct differentiation between the Niagara City Cruises and the Maid of the Mist docked on the US side, is the swarm of customers wearing red (Niagara City Cruises) and blue (Maid of the Mist) ponchos. Both these Niagara Falls boat tours are anticipating another exciting season. This past Winter season saw far less ice form on Lake Erie, which flows into the Niagara River. With the Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower) running and Maid of the Mist soon to launch in April.

This is the 9th season for Niagara City Cruises (Hornblower), and — wait for it — the 177th year for Maid of the Mist.

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Niagara Falls History: 5 Famous Structures Surrounding The Niagara Falls

Next time you are taking in the beauty of the Niagara Falls from the Parkway, take a look around you at some other pieces of Niagara Falls History. More than the magnificent falls, here are 5 famous structures to check out while you are there.

Niagara Scow (AKA “The Old Scow”)

On August 6, 1918, Gustave Lofberg and Frank Harris were aboard the sand scow dredging up sand banks from the Niagara River upstream of the waterfall. The scow was being towed by the tug boat “Hassayampa”, which was operated by Captain John Wallace. When Captain John Wallace brought the “Hassayampa” over to bring the scow back to shore, it broke loose and began floating downriver rapidly towards the Horseshoe Falls.

With Lofberg and Harris aboard, the boat got caught on a rock shoal half a mile from the edge of the falls after the scow swung sideways in the turbulent water. It grounded and became lodged on a rock shoal not too far from the brink of the Horseshoe Falls. The Niagara Falls (Ontario) Fire Department tried used a grappling gun to shoot a life line out towards the barge while waiting for the US Coast Guard to arrive. The US Coast Guard was able to send a lifeline over to the barge, and the breeches buoy ended up getting tangled.

William Red Hill Sr. volunteered to try to reach the men. Using the rope, Red Hill Sr. set out at 3 a.m. with spotlights to try to save the two men. He struggled and was unable to untangle the ropes. He set out again by daylight at 8 a.m., and was successful this time. By 9:30 a.m. the two men were being safely returned to the shore. The whole ordeal lasted 17 hours.

Old Scow Moved 100 Feet (October 2019)

On Thursday, October 31st 2019, a major wind storm caused gusts that peaked near 60 mph (100 kms/hr). The scow became dislodged and was overturned and driven by wind and water approximately 100 feet (30 meters) down river before being grounded again.

Old Scow Fractured (April 2022)

Due to recent weather conditions, the Iron Scow, a century-old shipwreck, moved further down river towards the Horseshoe Falls over the weekend of April 1st, 2022. It was obvious that at least two big portions of the main hull had split and were lying in the swirling water.

According to Jim Hill, senior manager of heritage for Niagara Parks, the ice boom was discharged the week before and may have caused the scow to fracture.  That presumably drove enough water and ice down the river from Lake Erie to “hammer into what was left of the scow,” he explained.

Toronto Power Generating Station

Ceasing operation in 1974, the Toronto Power Generating Station was built in 1906 and was one of the first Canadian-owned hydro-electric facilities. You can find this beautiful building alongside the Niagara River, just above the Niagara Falls. The station was built by the Electrical Development Company of Ontario under supervision of Hugh L. Cooper to supply hydro-electric power to nearby Toronto.

The water from the turbines ran out through a brick lined water wheel, which eventually came out at the base of the falls. The tunnel dimensions were 10 metres in diameter and 610 metres long. It was the largest of its kind in the world during that time period. The station operated 11 turbines which produced 11,000 horsepower each. Total power output was equal to 131,420 horsepower. Upgrades after being purchased by Ontario Hydro in 1922 improved the horsepower of each generator to 12,500 with a total output of 137,000 horsepower.

Eventually, Ontario Hydro looked to make better use downriver at the Sir Adam Beck Hydroelectric Power Stations in Queenston, Ontario, and in 1983 the vacant Toronto Power Generating Station was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1983 due to its importance in the development of business, industry and technology in Ontario.

Tesla Monument

Born in Croatia in 1856, Nikola Tesla was regarded as one of the most influential inventors of all times. He was a pioneer in the discovery of radar technology, X-ray technology, remote control and in 1895, Tesla designed what was among the first AC hydroelectric power plants in the United States, at Niagara Falls.

The Tesla monument has been erected on both sides of the Niagara Falls. The sculpture that was inaugurated in the New York was presented by Yugoslavia in 1976, and on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, the Tesla monument can be found in Queen Victoria Park. The sculpture was unveiled in 2006 on the 150th birthday of Tesla.

Rambler’s Rest

Built in 1907, this is a stone heritage pavilion that overlooks the Niagara River, between the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the American Bridal Veil Falls. It was built as resting place for pedestrians, with protection in case of any storms. Alternatively, it was also the spot that spectators gathered to witness stunts being performed in the Niagara Gorge.

Zimmerman Fountain

Clifton Hill’s location essentially started out because of a man named Samuel Zimmerman. Samuel Zimmerman was an American who came to Niagara in 1842 and was a very gifted contractor, and quite possibly one of the best of his time. He made a fortune on projects such as the Second Welland Canal, and was the man behind the building of the Great Western Railroad from Hamilton to Niagara Falls. He was also a primary supporter of the first railway suspension bridge to be built across the Niagara River Gorge.

The “Village of Clifton” was initially a piece of property owned by a man named Captain Ogden Creighton, and the village started laying out buildings and streets in approximately 1832. It was Creighton who gave this future settlement the name “Clifton”, derived from the town of the same name in England. Upon his death in 1837, his wife sold the property to Samuel Zimmerman. He later had the Erie and Niagara Railway routed through this town.

In 1848, Zimmerman purchased land in the “Village of Elgin” (which he named after Lord Elgin, the Governor General of Canada) after the first suspension bridge was built and houses started to span out with its first settlers in the area. This was the area of Niagara Falls that contained Queen Street, Park Street, Huron Street and Morrison Street. In 1856, the boundaries of the Village of Elgin were expanded to include the area of the Table Rock.

In view of this expansion and its subsequent increase in population, the Village of Elgin now had enough citizens to become a town rather than a village. Because the name Elgin had been previously used, the name of the newly formed town was changed to the Town of Clifton in 1856 (it amalgamated with the Village of Clifton).

In October of 1881, at the request of its residents, the former Town of Clifton received permission from government to change it’s name to the Town of Niagara Falls. By 1881, the population of the Town of Niagara Falls was 2,623 citizens — a far cry from its population today at approximately 83,000 inhabitants.

Zimmerman created an estate property along the south side of Ferry Hill (now Clifton Hill) that he called “Clifton Place”. On his estate, Zimmerman undertook to create many gardens and several large fountains. He planned to build a mansion that he hoped to live in once it was completed. His estate was bounded by Clifton Hill, the Niagara River, Robinson Street and Ferry Road (now known as Victoria Avenue). Today this property is owned by HOCO (Sir Harry Oakes Company). Unfortunately, Samuel Zimmerman saw only the foundations of his mansion built before he was killed on March 12th 1857 in the Desjardins Canal Railway accident. The train derailed and plunged into the canal killing 59 persons including Samuel Zimmerman.

Upon Zimmerman’s death in 1857, his estate was then taken over by U.S. Senator John T. Bush (the estate included the ownership of the first Clifton Hotel). It was Bush that completed the restoration of the mansion, and even though the Zimmerman/Bush mansion no longer stands, the “Zimmerman Fountain”, a large stone fountain built by Samuel Zimmerman below the moraine (now Queen Victoria Park), remains today.

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Pictured Above: Two unidentified black women with Niagara Falls in the background. Courtesy of Brock University Special Collections & Archives

February is Black History Month, a date recognized as an annual month of remembrance of important people and events in African-American history. Canadians and Americans celebrate it this month, and the United Kingdom also recognizes Black History Month in October.

Niagara Falls is more than just the city to go to in order to witness the majestic Falls, it also played an active role for African-Americans throughout history.

The Underground Railroad

Between 1840 and 1860, enslaved Africans followed the “Underground Railroad” to find freedom in Canada. It was not an actual railroad, but rather a secret network of routes and safe houses that helped people escape slavery and reach Canada, especially after the US passed the “Fugitive Slave Act” in 1850. This allowed slave hunters to pursue and capture enslaved people in places where they would legally be free. Approximately 30,000 slaves were able to escape along the Underground Railroad, and Niagara Falls was well-recognized as being a settling point for many people who escaped slavery in the United States.

Harriet Tubman

One of the most influential and empowering people to celebrate during Black History Month in Niagara Falls, is also the woman who played a huge hand in the Underground Railroad and became a heroine to many black people.

Harriet Tubman was born into a plantation in Maryland right into slavery. She was tormented with much cruelty as a field-hand. At age 13 she was struck in the head by a weight hurled by an overseer that would cause seizures for the rest of her life. After the death of her master in 1849, she was petrified of being sold to the Deep South and escaped without her husband to Philadelphia in the north. She began work as a cook in hotels and clubs to finance excursions to liberate other slaves into the Underground Railroad.

She returned in 1850 to rescue her sister Mary Ann and her two children. The Fugitive Slave Act came into effect in 1850, so now Harriet could no longer find complete refuge in the northern states, so that is when she began to bring them across the border into Niagara Falls, Canada. From there, they traveled to nearby St. Catharines, where they were aided by the Reverend Hiram Wilson, an abolitionist and the leader of the local refugee community.

In 1851 Tubman moved to St. Catharines, which would be the centre of her anti-slavery activities for the next seven years.

Due to Harriet Tubman’s courageous actions, St. Catharines quickly grew to 123 black families listed on the assessment rolls in 1855. Between 1852 and 1857, Tubman made 11 trips into the United States to rescue fugitives. What made her actions even more heroic was the $40,000 reward posted by a group of slave-owners for her capture — dead or alive. No one rivaled Tubman in the number of trips and the number of slaves liberated into the Underground Railroad.

Nathaniel Dett Memorial Chapel, 5674 Peer St., Niagara Falls 

The church was built in 1836 and in 1856, it was moved to Peer Street. The move was funded by a gentleman named Burr Plato, a fugitive from the US who prevailed over racist attitudes and became the first elected Black man in local government from 1886 to 1905. The Peer Street property was donated by Oliver Parnell, who had escaped slavery from Berlin, Maryland by swimming the Niagara River to freedom. Once in Canada, Pernell made his way to the village of Drummondville, part of present-day Niagara Falls, and settled there. During this period, there were many refugee slaves living in Drummondville along Peer, Stanley, Ross, Grey and Robinson Streets.

The building was renamed in 1983 after Nathaniel Dett, who was born in Niagara Falls in 1882. Dett was a world-renowned musician and composer. This building is the third oldest church in Niagara Falls.

One of Nathaniel Dett’s most played pieces is called “In the Bottoms”. He wrote this piano piece for the students he taught musically in 1913. It is being performed by Leon Bates. This is a portion of the second movement called “His Song”.

Niagara Black History Venues & Events

Niagara’s collection of displays and monuments honouring Black Canadian heritage allows visitors to learn about Canada’s stories of independence and bravery. Learn about Niagara’s part in the renowned Underground Railroad as you travel along the magnificent Niagara River Parkway from Fort Erie to Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake. See the printing press that printed Canada’s 1793 Act Against Slavery and stand where Harriet Tubman first entered into Canada in 1851.

Nathanial Dett Memorial Chapel of the British Methodist Episcopal Church
In 1836, the “British Methodist Episcopal Church” was built. The Nathaniel Dett Memorial Chapel is a National Historic Site that is part of the Freedom Trail’s Underground Railroad heritage places of interest.

https://www.heritagetrust.on.ca/en/pages/our-stories/slavery-to-freedom/partners/nathaniel-dett-memorial-chapel-british-methodist-episcopal-church

Harriet Tubman Tribute
Harriet Tubman’s initial crossing into Canada in 1856 was commemorated by an explanatory plaque placed by the Niagara Parks Commission in June 2017. She crossed the Niagara Parkway, north of the falls, on a suspension bridge near the current Whirlpool Bridge Plaza. At the White Water Walk and Whirlpool Bridge’s entry, look for a sequence of plaques.

https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/niagara-parks/white-water-walk

Niagara Falls History Museum
Throughout the year, the Niagara Falls History Museum hosts black history exhibits.

https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/niagara-falls-history-museum

The Louis Roy Press and the 1793 Act Against Slavery (Queenston)
Canada’s oldest wooden printing press, which printed the 1793 Act Against Slavery. Mackenzie Printery & Museum of Newspapers (Queenston)

https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/niagara-parks/mackenzie-printery

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center (Niagara Falls, New York)
825 Depot Ave W, Niagara Falls, NY 14305, United States

The Heritage Center’s aim is to tell the true story of Niagara Falls’ Underground Railroad freedom seekers and abolitionists, inspiring visitors to realize modern-day injustices stemming from slavery and take steps toward a more fair society.

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Tuesday – Sunday. 

Events: https://www.niagarafallsundergroundrailroad.org/black-history-month/

Tours: https://www.niagarafallsundergroundrailroad.org/tours-2/

Speaker Series on Black History by the Niagara Parks Commission

With this multi-part online speaker series, learn about different viewpoints on Black history and culture in Canada.

The speaker series has an exceptional lineup of speakers, beginning on January 29 with Lezlie Harper, an established Black history educational group tours professional located in Niagara, and concluding on February 26 with Saladin Allah, a recognized award-winning multi-media activist. Kevin Cottrell, the originator of the current National Network to Freedom Initiative, will conclude the series on March 26.

Tickets grant access to the speaker series, along with coffee and tea at the event.

Tickets are $15 per event, or gain access to the entire series for $35. All sessions begin at 2:00 p.m.

• January 29: Lezlie Harper, Celebrating Black History in Niagara
  • Lezlie Harper, a Black history educational group tour specialist, will begin off the series on January 29 with an examination of Black History in Niagara.
• February 26: Saladin Allah, Present-Day Freedom Seekers and The Power of our Stories
  • Saladin Allah, a multi-media activist, will lecture about current day freedom seekers and the impact of their tales on February 26.
• March 26: Kevin Cottrell, Interpreting The Underground Railroad in the age of Heritage Tourism and the built environment in the Niagara Region
  • The series finishes on March 26 with Kevin Cottrell, the current National Network of Freedom Initiative’s founder. He’ll speak on the Niagara Region’s heritage tourism and the Underground Railroad.

More information and tickets are available at niagaraparks.com/black-history. Tickets are $15 per event, with a $35 package that includes admission to all three events. All sessions will begin at 2 p.m. at the Laura Secord Homestead, 29 Queenston Street, Queenston, Ontario.

Lezlie Harper: Celebrating Black History in Niagara
January 29, 2023

This session will look at the experiences of Black families who come to Canada, as well as the experiences of families who come to the Niagara Region and Canada.

Saladin Allah: Present-Day Freedom Seekers and The Power of our Stories
February 26, 2023

This workshop will investigate Present Day Freedom Seekers and the Power of Our Stories in an illuminating presentation about the significance of our local legacy and the need of preserving the stories of ordinary people doing amazing things. Saladin discusses the importance of everyday people finding a sense of agency in their legacy as modern-day freedom seekers by highlighting the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center and sharing his personal story as a descendant of famed underground railroad freedom seeker Josiah Henson.

Kevin Cottrell: Interpreting The Underground Railroad in the age of Heritage Tourism and the built environment in the Niagara Region
March 26, 2023

Cottrell walks participants through the history of Black history stories along the Niagara River in this session.

The post Niagara Events To Commemorate Black History Month appeared first on Niagara Falls Blog.

Clifton Hill is known as the “Street of Fun by the Falls”; a street jammed with tourists in the Summer and marked by attractions, restaurants, hotels and motels. Before all this, Clifton Hill held an important historic significance to Niagara Falls.

Clifton Hill’s location essentially started out because of a man named Samuel Zimmerman. Samuel Zimmerman was an American who came to Niagara in 1842 and was a very gifted contractor, and quite possibly one of the best of his time. He made a fortune on projects such as the Second Welland Canal, and was the man behind the building of the Great Western Railroad from Hamilton to Niagara Falls. He was also a primary supporter of the first railway suspension bridge to be built across the Niagara River Gorge.

The “Village of Clifton” was initially a piece of property owned by a man named Captain Ogden Creighton, and the village started laying out buildings and streets in approximately 1832. It was Creighton who gave this future settlement the name “Clifton”, derived from the town of the same name in England. Upon his death in 1837, his wife sold the property to Samuel Zimmerman. He later had the Erie and Niagara Railway routed through this town.

In 1848, Zimmerman purchased land in the “Village of Elgin” (which he named after Lord Elgin, the Governor General of Canada) after the first suspension bridge was built and houses started to span out with its first settlers in the area. This was the area of Niagara Falls that contained Queen Street, Park Street, Huron Street and Morrison Street. In 1856, the boundaries of the Village of Elgin were expanded to include the area of the Table Rock.

In view of this expansion and its subsequent increase in population, the Village of Elgin now had enough citizens to become a town rather than a village. Because the name Elgin had been previously used, the name of the newly formed town was changed to the Town of Clifton in 1856 (it amalgamated with the Village of Clifton).

In October of 1881, at the request of its residents, the former Town of Clifton received permission from government to change it’s name to the Town of Niagara Falls. By 1881, the population of the Town of Niagara Falls was 2,623 citizens — a far cry from its population today at approximately 88,000 inhabitants.

Zimmerman created an estate property along the south side of Ferry Hill (now Clifton Hill) that he called “Clifton Place”. On his estate, Zimmerman undertook to create many gardens and several large fountains. He planned to build a mansion that he hoped to live in once it was completed. His estate was bounded by Clifton Hill, the Niagara River, Robinson Street and Ferry Road (now known as Victoria Avenue). Today this property is owned by HOCO (Sir Harry Oakes Company). Unfortunately, Samuel Zimmerman saw only the foundations of his mansion built before he was killed on March 12th 1857 in the Desjardins Canal Railway accident. The train derailed and plunged into the canal killing 59 persons including Samuel Zimmerman.

“Clifton Place”. The grassy area in the foreground now stands all the attractions on the south side of Clifton Hill (HOCO property)

The south side Clifton Hill’s current attractions that now reside on what was once was Zimmerman’s property

The first buildings that Zimmerman built on his estate were four gatehouses. Each gatehouse was large enough to be a home in itself. A gatehouse was located at each of the four entrances to his 52 acre estate.

Zimmerman also built a large stable for his horses and carriages of imported English yellow brick. The stables continued to exist until the mid 1950’s when the new Park Motor Hotel (eventually to be the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill) was built. The Comfort Inn Clifton Hill was eventually demolished in 2015 to make way for added new attractions such as the Niagara Speedway (coming Spring 2018). However, prior to this, Niagara Falls Historian Sherman Zavitz pointed out a section of the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill that still had a portion of the foundation of the Clifton Place stables still standing, which visibly showed the same circular small stable windows.

The Bush Estate Clifton Place stables in 1946 (built in 1856 by Samuel Zimmerman)

Sherman Zavitz pointing out the circular stable windows on the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill that still remain (one visible here)

Upon Zimmerman’s death in 1857, his estate was then taken over by U.S. Senator John T. Bush (the estate included the ownership of the first Clifton Hotel). It was Bush that completed the restoration of the mansion, and even though the Zimmerman/Bush mansion no longer stands, the “Zimmerman Fountain”, a large stone fountain built by Samuel Zimmerman below the moraine (now Queen Victoria Park), remains today.

Senator Bush and his family lived in the mansion for the next 50 years. The view of Niagara Falls was available from the many windows on the upper floors, the balconies and from a little stone turret built into one wing of the mansion.
Following the death of Senator Bush, his daughter Miss Josephine Bush continued to live in the mansion until 1927. In 1928, Miss Bush sold the Bush Estate to Sir Harry Oakes, and the mansion was later torn down by June 1, 1937.

By the time that Sir Harry Oakes purchased this land, tourism was beginning to boom in Niagara Falls and Oakes knew to capitalize on that. Oakes was a Parks Commissioner who donated the piece of land in which the Oakes Garden Theatre currently resides to the Niagara Parks Commission, in exchange for another plot of land located just above the park, which is today the south side of Clifton Hill, with the current large chain of attractions, restaurants and retail outlets still owned and operated by the Oakes family.

Before he made the exchange though, Oakes wanted to create something beautiful. He began to hire individuals such as architect Dunington-Grubb, Stensson, and William Lyon Somerville to create an intricate design of gardens and stone sculptures in 1937. The garden was officially open to the public in 1937 and in memory and in honor of Harry Oakes the garden was named Oakes Garden Theatre to pay tribute to all the hard work and dedication he put into the creation of this new beautiful spot in Niagara to visit. It officially opened on September 18, 1937. Oakes Garden Theatre is fan-shaped, with the stage placed with the Niagara Falls as a natural backdrop.

The Oakes Garden Theatre is located at the foot of Clifton Hill and the Niagara Parkway. The two open pavilions were deliberately designed so that one was perfectly aligned on the axis of the Horseshoe Falls, and the other with the American Falls.

Across from the Oakes Garden (on the south side of Clifton Hill between Falls Avenue and River Road), you can’t help but notice the large beautiful monument that pays tribute to all the veterans from Niagara Falls that lost their lives during WWI, WWII, and the Korean War. This national monument was originally unveiled in 1927 to honour those that died fighting in the First World War, and then was updated in 1982 to include the Second World War and Korea. There are 136 names inscribed on this monument. It is important to note that while that number doesn’t seem large, during the time of the First World War, Niagara Falls had approximately 1100 people serve in the war — thus telling us literally on such a large-scale how many men sacrificed their lives that came from Niagara Falls.
 

Clifton Hill Great War Memorial in 1927 (year of its unveiling)

If you wish to learn a little bit more about Clifton Hill and the Niagara Falls, click here for some other interesting historical facts about Niagara Falls.

The post The History of Clifton Hill appeared first on Niagara Falls Blog.

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The old Park Motor Hotel which came into operation in the 1950’s on Clifton Hill (later becoming the Comfort Inn Clifton Hill), is long gone, however, here are some photos and text from the Park Motor Hotel in the 1960’s. 

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Current Niagara Falls Hotels

via cliftonhill.com

For a full list of hotels in and around the Clifton Hill area, please refer to our Niagara Falls Hotels list. 

The post 1960’s Imagery of the Park Motor Hotel, Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls appeared first on Niagara Falls Blog.