An extensive gathering of pleasing to the eye Black and White plus some color and hand-coloured images - A collection of superb Gallery Prints on archival quality Fine Art Paper or Artists Quality Matte Canvas - Creating a fabulous History, Nostalgia and Decorative Wall Art Centre of images dating back through the 1800s to early 1900 Niagara

Note: Each picture holds a story from long ago.
The facts about the event or location depicted in each of these pictures are noted in a related to the image document that is included with your artwork and is suitable for display with your picture. You’ll find these true stories fascinating and many are stranger than fiction

Decorate your home or place of business walls with some interesting conversation pieces from the past.

Niagara Writer Old Time Gallery Prints – Official Gallery Print Edition

Subject:
Niagara – The Region along the Niagara River Border in 1858
It’s a collection of scenes and stories that tourist from that time in long ago Niagara experienced…

The Falls of Niagara may justly be classed among the wonders of the world. They are the pride of America, unequalled in grandeur, magnitude, and magnificence, by any other known cataract; and have, since they were discovered, exerted an attractive influence over millions of the human race, who have flocked thither year after year to gaze upon the tumultuous crash of water with feelings of the deepest solemnity. The power and majesty of the almighty are, perhaps, more awfully exhibited and more fully realised in this stupendous waterfall than in any other scene on earth.

In the following pages we will attempt to guide the traveler to the various points whence the finest views of the Falls may be obtained, and thereafter, conduct him to the spots of peculiar interest in their neighbourhood.

The great lakes of North America – Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie – pour the flood of their accumulated waters into Lake Ontario through a channel of about 36 miles in length. This channel is named the Niagara River, and is part of the boundary between Canada and the state of New York. Twenty-two miles below its commencement at Lake Erie occur the famous Falls of Niagara. These Falls are divided into two by Iris or Goat Island. The American Falls are 900 feet wide, by 163 feet high. The horseshoe or Canadian Fall is 2,000 feet wide, and 154 feet high. The origin of the name is uncertain, but it is supposed to be of Iroquois extraction, and to signify the “Thunder of Waters.” The roar of the Falls is sometimes heard at a great distance, but of course it is constantly modified by the direction and strength of the wind. Over this magnificent precipice the irresistible tide rushes at the rate of 100 million tons of water every hour! It is computed that the precipice is worn away by the friction of the water at a rate of about one foot a year, and it is believed that the Falls have gradually receded from Queenston, seven miles below, to their present position. The river above the Falls is studded with islands of all sizes, amounting to 37 in number. The width of the stream varies from several hundred yards to three miles. At the Falls it is about three quarters of a mile wide. The total descent from Lake Erie to Ontario is 334 feet. So much for statistics.

The Falls of Niagara were first seen by a white man 180 years ago [that’s from 1858]. Father Hennepin, a French Jesuit missionary, first saw them when on an expedition of discovery in the year 1678.

The spots of interest to be visited, besides the great Fall itself, are: - the Ground where the memorable Battle of Lundy’s Lane was fought; the Whirlpool below the Falls; the Suspension Bridges; the Devil’s Hole and the Bloody Run; the Queenston Heights and General Brock’s Monument, &c.

We think it right to say that the Engravings with which our work is embellished may be depended on as being minutely correct, the most of them having been copied from photographs, and others taken from drawings made on the spot by Washington Friend, Esq., whose beautiful and cleverly executed panorama of American scenery is so well known to the public, and which is now exhibiting in England. Niagara #1858-15001
Terrapin Tower and Horseshoe Fall

The FALLS OF NIAGARA

Let us suppose, then, reader, that you reached the Falls on the American side; that you have just alighted from the train in the village of the Falls, and the thunder of Niagara is sounding in your ears. It were superfluous to give you minute directions how to proceed. Follow the crowd and you cannot go wrong; there are also numerous ready and efficient guides, and, were these lacking, the roar of the great cataract would of itself be sufficient.

1858 Niagara #1858-15001 is available in the following folio sizes

Map; Niagara River from Lake Erie to lake Ontario

The village of the Falls, through which you pass, lies on the east side of the river, in the immediate vicinity of the great cataract, 22 miles by rail from the town of Buffalo on Lake Erie, and 300 by rail from Albany. Being a fashionable place of resort during summer and autumn, - at which season there are crowds of visitors to the renowned Falls, - it possesses several excellent hotels, the chief of which are the Cataract House and International Hotel. Two miles farther down the river is the Monteagle Hotel, near the Suspension Bridge. But we are too near the Falls to linger here. Pushing forward down the street leading between the two hotels just mentioned, we come into full view of the river at the point where it is spanned by the

1858 Niagara #1858-15006 is available in the following folio sizes

Suspension Bridge Above The Rapids

Here the first perceptions of power and grandeur begin to awaken in our minds. The noble river is seen hurrying on towards its final leap; and as we stand upon the bridge looking down upon the gushing flood of water, that seems as if it would sweep away our frail standing ground and hurl us over the dread precipice whose rounded edge is but a few yards further down, we begin, though feebly as yet, to realise the immensity of this far famed cataract. This is the finest point of view from which to observe the rapids above the Falls. The fall of the river from the head of the rapids (a mile above the Falls) to the edge of the precipice is nearly 60 feet; and the tumultuous madness of the waters, hurling and foaming in wayward billows and breaks down this descent, as if fretting with impatience, is a fine contrast to the uniform magnificent sweep with which at length they gush into the thundering flood below.

Niagara #1858-15011
Suspension Bridge and Rapids

At the other end of the bridge, as seen in our Engraving, is Bath Island, on which is the Toll-house, where each visitor is charged 25 cents, and has his name entered in a book; after which he is entitled to cross as often as he pleases, free of charge, during the current year. Bath Island is connected with Iris or Goat Island by another bridge; and beyond goat island there are a few scattered rocks, which are connected with it by means of a third bridge. These rocks lie on the very brink of the precipice, between the American Falls and the Horseshoe Fall, and on them stands a tower named the Terrapin Tower, which commands a magnificent view of Niagara. But there are finer points of view than this. Moreover, we shall afterwards have to conduct our readers to various points of interest on and around these islands, which, however, no one will feel disposed to visit until he has given his undivided attention to the wonderful Falls from the most striking points of view. We therefore recommend him not to cross over to Goat Island in the first instance, but, after having stood upon the bridge over the rapids above described, retrace his steps and hasten down the bank of the river a few hundred yards, to a spot named Prospect Point.

1858 Niagara #1858-15011 is available in the following folio sizes

Before proceeding thither, however, we may say a word or two in reference to the bridge we are about to leave. The elegant and substantial structure that now spans the river at this point was erected by the Messrs Porter, the proprietors of Goat Island. It is made of iron, on the plan of Whipple’s iron arch bridge, and is 360 feet long, having 4 arches of 90 feet span each. The width is 27 feet, embracing a double carriage-way of 16½ feet, and two foot paths of 5¼ feet each, with iron railings. All the materials used in its construction are of the best quality, and the strength of all the parts is much beyond what is considered necessary.

Niagara #1858-15012
Niagara Falls

The first bridge that was thrown over the turbulent waters was constructed at the head of Goat Island in 1817. It was carried away by ice in the following spring, and was succeeded by another, which was built in 1818. The difficulties attending its construction were overcome in the following manner: a massive abutment of timber was built at the water’s edge, from which were projected enormously long and heavy beams of timber. These beams were secured on the land side by heavy loads of stone, and their outer ends were rendered steady by means of stilts or legs let down from them and thrust into the bottom of the river. A platform was thrown over this projection, along which heavy masses of stone were carried and dropped into the river. This operation was continued until the heap appeared above water, and then a strong framework of timber, filled solidly with stone, was built upon it. to this pier the first permanent portion of the bridge was fixed, and then, commencing from the extremity, beams were run out and a second pier similarly formed, and so on till the bridge was completed. It was built by the Messes Porter – extensive proprietors in this neighbourhood – and was repaired in 1839, and again in 1849.

In the former year one of the workmen, named Chapin, fell from the bridge into the river, fortunately the current carried him to the first of two small islets below. He was rescued from his perilous position by Mr J.R. Robinson, who has more than once bravely rescued fellow-creatures from this dangerous river; and the islet was named after him – Chapin Island.

In July 1853, another accident occurred near this point two Germans took a boat, and set out for a pleasure sail on the river above the Falls. Nothing more was heard of them until next morning, when one of them, named Joseph Avery, was observed clinging to a log sticking in the middle of the rapids, near the bridge between Bath Island and the mainland. Thousands of people assembled to render the poor man assistance, and during the day various attempts were made to rescue him from his perilous position, but without success. At length a boat was lowered down the rapids towards the log to which he clung. It neared him, and he attempted to spring towards it; but his strength was gone and he fell into the stream. In another moment he was swept over the Falls. His body was never found.

Niagara Falls From Prospect Point

This is a sight worth coming many hundred miles to see. Walking through the Grove, we emerge upon the Point in front of Prospect Point Cottage. Here, at one wide sweep, we behold Niagara stretching from the American side to the Canadian side in magnificent perspective. Just at our feet the smooth deep masses of the American Falls undulate convulsively as they hurl over the precipice and dash, in never ending succession of what we may term passionate bursts, upon the rugged rocks beneath. Beyond and a little to the left, is Goat Island, richly clothed with trees its drooping end seeming as if it, were plunging, like the mighty river, into the seething abyss. Just off the Point is seen the Terrapin Tower, and right in front of us is the great Horseshoe Fall, uttering its deep, deafening roar of endless melody, as it plunges into that curling sea, from which the white cloud of mist sprouts high in air and partially conceals the back ground of Canada from view. Far down from the river below, the ferryboats are seen dancing on the angry waters. it is a solemnizing prospect, and we should suppose that few could gaze upon it for the first time without feeling that they had attained to a higher conception of awful power and might of the Eternal. This point was the residence of Francis Abbot, the young Hermit of Niagara.

The American Fall, on the brink of which we stand, is 163 feet in perpendicular height, and 660 feet wide from the mainland to Luna Island. The smaller Fall, between Luna and Goat Island, is 240 feet wide. Within a short distance of the spot where we stand is the

Ferry House

HERE there is a curious inclined plane, down which we descend in cars, which are worked by means of a water wheel and rope; there is also a stair connected with this, at the foot of which the ferry-boat waits to convey us to the Canadian side, wither we intend to proceed, because one of the finest views of Niagara is had from Table Rock. Ten minutes will suffice to convey us over, and the passage is quite safe. the charge is 183/4 cents; but before going, let us hasten to the foot of the American Falls, and view them from below.

Mr Charles Dickens, writing of this scene says: “This bank is very steep, and was slippery with rain and half melted ice. I hardly know how I got down, but I was soon at the bottom, and climbing with two English officers, who were crossing and had joined me, over some broken rocks, deafened by the noise, half blinded by the spray, and wet to the skin, we were at the foot of the American Fall. I could see an immense torrent of water tearing headlong down from some great height, but had no idea of shape or situation, or anything but vague immensity.”

1858 Niagara #1858-15012 is available in the following folio sizes

Seating ourselves in the Ferry boat, we are soon dancing on the agitated waters, and gazing in profound silence and admiration at the Falls, which from this point of view are seen to great advantage. A few minutes, and we are standing on the soil of Canada. Here carriages are ready to convey us to Table Rock, little more than a mile distance. Clifton House, not far from the landing, and several other objects of interest, claim our attention; but we are too full of the great Cataract just now to turn aside, and, as we shall pass this way again in descending the river, we will hasten on to behold the sublime view of Niagara from

Niagara #1858-15016
Table Rock

IN alluding to this view, the graphic writer above quoted says: “It was not till I came on Table Rock, and looked on the fall of bright green water, that it came upon me in its full might and majesty. The Niagara was for ever stamped upon my heart, an image of beauty, to remain there, changeless and indelible, until its pulses cease to bear for ever.

“Oh how the strife and trouble of daily life receded from my view and lessened in the distance, during the ten memorable days we passed on that enchanted ground! What voices spake from out the thundering water! What faces, faded from the earth, looked out upon me from its gleaming depths! What heavenly promise glistened in those angels’ tears, the drops of many hues, that showed around, and twined themselves about the gorgeous arches, which the changing rainbows made! …To wander to and fro all day, and see the cataract from all points of view; to stand upon the edge of the Great Horseshoe Fall, marking the hurried water gathering strength as it approached the verge, yet seeming, too, to pause before it shot into the gulf below; to gaze from the river’s level up at the torrent as it came streaming down; to climb the neighbouring heights and watch it through the trees, and see the wreathing water in the rapids hurrying on to take its fearful plunge; to linger in the shadow of the solemn rocks three miles below, watching the river as, stirred by no visible cause, it heaved, and eddied, and awoke the echoes, being troubled yet, far down beneath the surface, by its giant leap; to have Niagara before me, lighted by the sun and by the moon, red in day’s decline and gat as evening slowly fell upon it; to look upon it every day, and wake up in the night and hear its ceaseless voice: this was enough.

1858 Niagara #1858-15016 is available in the following folio sizes

“I think in every quiet season now, still do those waters roll and leap, and roar and tumble, all day long; still are the rainbows spanning them hundreds of feet below; still, when the sun is on them, do they shine like molten gold; still, when the day is gloomy, do they fall like snow, or seem to crumble away like the front of a great chalk cliff, or roll down the rock like dense white smoke. But always does the mighty stream appear to die as it comes down, and always from its unfathomable grave arises that tremendous ghost of spray and mist which is never laid: which has haunted this place with the same dread solemnity since darkness brood on the deep, and that first flood before the deluge – light – came rushing on creation at the word of God.”

But no words, however appropriate, no combination of ideas, however felicitous, can do justice to Niagara; and those who are wending their way thither will need no description: yet it is satisfactory to know the feelings and thoughts of those who have gone before us.

Table Rock is no longer the extensive platform that it once was, large portions of it having fallen from time to time. It overhangs the terrible caldron close to the Horseshoe Fall, and the view from it, as already described, is most sublime. In 1818 a mass of 160 feet long and 40 feed wide broke off and fell into the boiling flood; and in 1828 three immense masses fell with a shock like an earthquake. Again, in 1829, another fragment fell, and in 1850 a portion about 200 feet in length and 100 feet thick. On one of these occasions some forty or fifty persons had been standing on the rock a few minutes before it fell! The work of demolition still goes on, for another portion of Table Rock fell last year [1857].

1858 Niagara #1858-15017 is available in the following folio sizes

Standing on the verge of Table Rock, and looking down into the angry swirl of mist and heaving waters, we behold a steamboat battling with the flood. It is

Niagara #1858-15019
American Falls

THE little steamer starts from the landing, close to the Suspension Bridge, two miles below Niagara, and, ascending the river, passes the American Falls, and penetrates boldly into the dense cloud of mist close to the foot of the Horseshoe Fall. The two miles’ trip is of a most thrilling character. Passing between the steep cliffs on each side of the river, we obtain a magnificent view of the whole line of the Falls in all positions, until everything is shut out from our sight by the drenching spray, as we dash, to all appearances, into the very jaws of the roaring cataract. But the Maid of the Mist, wheels gracefully round in time, and emerges from the white curtain, glittering in the diamond drops which she has snatched from the rainbows of Niagara! Waterproof garments are provided, free of charge, for those who wish to remain on deck during the trip. There is no real danger attending this excursion. The steamer was built expressly for her present work, and she is an excellent boat of 170 tons burden, and propelled by an engine of above 100-horse power. The Maid of the Mist makes hourly trips every day except Sundays.

A short distance from Table Rock there is a stair by which we can descend under the overhanging cliff, and if we desire it, don the waterproof habiliments provided for us, and go under

1858 Niagara #1858-15019 is available in the following folio sizes

The Horseshoe [or Canadian] Fall

THE view here is awfully grand. As we gaze upwards at the frowning cliff that seem tottering to the fall, and pass under the thick curtain of water – so near that it seems as if we could touch it – and hear the hissing spray, and are stunned by the deafening roar that issues from the misty vortex at our feet, an indescribable feeling of awe steals over us, and we are more than ever impressed with the tremendous magnificence of Niagara.

Niagara #1858-15020
Horseshoe Fall

Behind our narrow foot-path the precipice of the Horseshoe Fall rises perpendicularly to a height of 90 feet; at our feet the cliff descends about 70 feet into a turmoil of bursting foam; in front is the liquid curtain which, though every passing onward, never unveils this wildest of Nature’s caverns.

We do not run much danger in going under the Falls if we are moderately careful, and hundreds of ladies do so every year. But accidents have happened more than once to reckless travelers. To the nervous and the timid we would say, go under the Falls by all means, and fear not; to the daring and the bold we would say go, but beware. At the same time it is right to mention that portions of Table Rock are still expected to fall every year, so that those who go under the Falls must run the risk of this.

The volume of water that gushes over the Horseshoe Fall is enormous. It is estimated that the sheet is fully 20 feet thick in the centre, an estimate which was corroborated in a singular manner in 1829. a ship named the Detroit, having been condemned, was bought and sent over the Falls. On board were put a live bear, a deer, a buffalo, and several smaller animals. The vessel was almost knocked to pieces in the rapids, but a large portion of her hull went over entire. She drew 18 feet water, but did not strike the cliff as she took the awful plunge.

1858 Niagara #1858-15020 is available in the following folio sizes

Prospect House

STANDS in the rear of Table Rock. The view from the summit of this building is magnificent.

A few hundred yards above Prospect House there is a point from which we obtain a fine view of the rapids and the islands named

The Three Sisters

THEY are seen in the distance lying close together at the head of Goat Island.

From one of these sisters a gentleman named Allan was rescued by the gallant Mr. J.R. Robinson in the summer of 1841, Mr Allan had started alone in his boat for the village of Chippewa, and in the middle of the rive broke one of his oars. Being unable to gain the shore, he endeavored with the remaining oar to steer for the head of Goat Island, but the rapid current swept him past this point. As he approached the outer island of the Three Sisters, he steered with the cool energy of despair towards it and leaped ashore, while his boat sprang like a lightning flash down the rapid and over the Horseshoe Fall. For two days Mr. Allan remained on the island, and then, fortunately, succeeded to make s fire with some matches he happened to have in his pocket. Crowds of people assembled to assist in and witness the rescue, which was accomplished by Robinson, who, having managed to pass a rope from island to island, reached him with a skiff.

Another narrow escape was made here by a father and son in the year 1850. The son, a boy of ten years of age, was paddling his father – who was drunk at the time – over to their home on Grand Island. The father was unable to guide the frail canoe, which was carried into the rapids, and descended with fearful rapidly towards the Falls. The wretched father could do nothing to save himself; but the gallant boy struggled with the energy of a hero, and succeeded in forcing the canoe between Goat Island and the Three Sisters. Here they were in imminent danger of passing over the little cascade between these islands, but, providentially, as they neared it a wave upset the canoe and left them struggling in the water. The place was shallow, - the boy gained his footing, and, seizing his father by the collar, dragged him to the shore, where hundreds of anxious spectators received them with shouts of joy.

Gull Island is a small island just above the Horseshoe Fall. It has never been trodden by man.

About two miles higher up the river is

The Burning Spring

THIS curious spring is very interesting. The water, being charged with sulphureted hydrogen gas, takes fire when a light is applied to it, and burns with a pale, blue flame.

The Battle of Chippewa was fought in this neighbourhood on the 5th of July, 1814.

In order to gratify the visitor’s natural desire to see Niagara from the most striking points of view, we have hurried him somewhat abruptly to the Canada side. We will now retrace our steps to the ferry, and crossing over, visit Goat Island and its neighbourhood.

The first object that claims our attention as we return down the left bank of the river is

The Museum

Which stands at the top of the bank near to Table Rock, and is well worth visiting. It is arranged so as to represent a forest scene, and contains a fine collection of birds, beasts, and fishes, besides a camera-obscura. Charge for admission 25 cents.

A short distance below this house a terrible accident occurred in 1844. A lady named Miss Martha K. Rugg fell over the bank, and, descending a depth of 115 feet, was dashed on the sharp rocks below. She was still alive when picked up, but expired a few hours afterwards.

1858 Niagara #1858-15021 is available in the following folio sizes

Our engraving of the American Falls

EXHIBITS the view as seen from the Canadian side directly opposite. Behind the Falls are seen the splendid American Hotels, the Cataract House, the International, &c., with the woods extending towards Prospect Point. On the right are the Centre Fall and the wooden stairs leading to the Cave of the Winds.

From this position we have also a fine prospect of Niagara River Below The Falls

OUR engraving, taken from a photograph, gives an excellent and correct representation of this view. The swollen and agitated stream hurries onward, after its mighty leap, between steep cliffs, clothed on the summit with wood. On the left of the Picture we see the road winding along the top of the bank towards the splendid hotel named Clifton House; groups of pilgrims to the shrine of the mighty cataract of the West enliven the scene, and, perchance, the Ferry boat shoots out from its mooring as we pass, and dances like a cork upon the troubled waters.

A walk of about half an hour along the bank of the river, brings us to

Clifton House

A magnificent hotel, in the immediate vicinity of which is the ground where the Battle of Lundy’s Lane was fought. It occupies a commanding position on the top of the bank, at a short distance from the Ferry Landing Place. The view of the American and the Horseshoe Falls from the hotel is exceedingly fine, and the accommodation is most excellent. The gardens around it are a great improvement, and it has concert rooms, large public saloon, and is lighted with gas. Omnibuses and conveyances from and to all points of interest centre at Clifton House, and the depot of the Erie and Ontario Railroad is about 200 yards from the door. The railroad referred to connects at Chippewa, a village about three miles up the river, with the steamer to buffalo, and runs down the river to the City of Niagara [NOW it’s the town of Niagara-on-the-lake], at its mouth, whence the Lake Ontario steamers convey passengers to the River St Lawrence.

Having thus cast a rapid glance at the salient points on the Canada side, we may either continue our walk for a mile further, to the Suspension Bridge, or recross the Ferry to inspect the Falls more narrowly. Choosing the latter course, we cross in the boat, re-ascend the inclined-plane railway, hurry through the grove, and cross the bridge to

Bath Island

HERE is a bathing establishment, having warm and plunge baths open at all hours of the day; and here also may be purchased any amount of Indian curiosities. The largest paper mill in the United States is also on this island. It belongs to Bradley and Co. of Buffalo. A little higher up are two smaller islets named Ship and Brig Islands. The former is also named Lovers’ Retreat, and is connected with Bath Island by a slender but safe bridge. Looking down the river we see several small islets, most of which are more or less connected with thrilling incidents of danger, escape, or death, for graphic details of which we refer the traveler to the guides, who are learned in local tradition.

Crossing the bridge at the other end of Bath Island, we reach

Niagara #1858-15028
Niagara in Winter

Goat, or Iris Island

THIS island is half a mile long by a quarter broad, and contains about 70 acres. It divides the Falls, is 330 yards wide, and heavily wooded. In 1770 a man of the name of Stedman placed some goats here to pasture; hence the name. Its other name, Iris, is derived from the number of beautiful rainbows that are so frequently seen near it. it is the property of the Porter family, and to them the public are indebted for the facilities which are afforded them in visiting the Falls. Goat island was visited long before the bridges were constructed; but the visitors were not numerous, the risk being very great. The dates 1771, 1772, and 1779, under the name of several strangers, were found cut in a beech tree near the Horseshoe Fall.

Three paths diverge from the house on your left, in which Indian curiosities are sold; the one on the left leads to the head of the island; the centre road cuts right across it; and that on the right conducts to the Falls. Let us follow the latter through the trees that line the margin of the rapids. In a few minutes we reach a spot named Hog’s Back, from which we have a good view of the Central and American Falls and the river below, rushing on as if in exultation after its terrific leap. Dr Hungerford of West Troy was killed just under this point in 1839, by the falling of a portion of the cliff.

Three Profiles, formed by the Falls in this neighbourhood, are pointed out, but they exist chiefly in the imagination!

That small island to our right, on the verge of the Falls, is

Luna Island

So called because it is the best point from which to view the beautiful Lunar Bow. A narrow bridge connects this island with Goat Island.

The Lunar Bow is only seen once a-month, when the moon is full and sufficiently high in the heavens.

The Solar Bow is always visible when the sun shines on the Falls.

It is said by some that Luna Island trembles; which is not impossible.

A very melancholy accident occurred at the northern extremity of the island in the year 1849. the family of Mr Deforest of Buffalo visited the Falls on the 21st June of that year, along with a young man named Charles Addington. They were about to leave this island when Mr Addington playfully seized Annette, the little daughter of Mr Deforest, in his arms, and held her over the edge of the bank, exclaiming, “I am going to throw you in.” a sudden impulse of fear caused the child to bound from his grasp and fall into the rushing stream; with a loud cry of horror the young man sprang in to save her, and, ere the stricken parents could utter a cry, they both went over the Falls! In the afternoon the mangled remains of the child were discovered in the Cave of the Winds, but Addington’s body was not found for several days afterwards.

1858 Niagara #1858-15028 is available in the following folio sizes

The Centre Fall

OVER which we pass in our return to Goat Island, although a mere ribbon of white water when seen from a short distance in contrast with the Great Falls, is by no means unworthy of notice. It is 240 feet wide, and is a very graceful sheet of water. Proceeding along the road a short distance, we come to

Biddle’s Stairs

THESE were erected in 1829 by Mr Biddle, President of the United States’ Bank, for the purpose of enabling visitors to descend the perpendicular precipice. The stairs are firmly secured to the cliff, and are said to be quire safe. They are 80 feet high. The total descent from the top of the bank to the bottom is 185 feet.

Between this point and the Centre Fall is the spot where the celebrated Sam Patch made his famous leaps. Sam made two leaps in 1829. a long ladder was placed at the foot of the rock and fastened with ropes in such a manner that the top projected over the water. A platform was then laid from the top of the ladder to the edge of the bank above. Hundreds of thousands of spectators crowded every point within sight of the place on both shores, eager to behold the extraordinary spectacle of a man jumping “over the Falls.” Sam walked along the giddy platform, made his bow, and went down, feet first, 97 feet into the river.

Not content with this achievement, Sam Patch afterwards, made a higher leap at the Genesee Falls. Again, at the same place, he made another jump, from the height of 125 feet! This was his last. The poor fellow never rose again, and his body has never been found.

Before descending Biddle’s Stairs, let us pass on until we reach the extremity of the island, and cross the bridge to

Terrapin Tower

THIS tower occupies a singular and awful position. A few scattered masses of rock lie on the very brink of the Great Fall, seeming as if unable to maintain their position against the tremendous rush of water. Upon these rocks the tower is built, it was erected in 1833, by Judge Porter; and from the summit we obtain the most magnificent view that can be conceived, - the rapids above rolling tumultuously towards you, - the green water of the mighty Fall at your feet, - below you the hissing caldron of spray, and the river with its steep banks beyond, - in fact the whole range of the Falls themselves, and the world of raging waters around them, are seen from this commanding point of view. The tower is 45 feet high.

The bridge leading to this tower is usually wet with spray, so that we must be careful in crossing. In 1852 a gentleman fell from this bridge, and was carried to the edge of the Fall; fortunately he stuck between two rocks, and was rescued by two Americans, who threw lines towards him, which he fastened around his body, and was thus drawn ashore.

A timber which projects over the dread abyss was the usual evening promenade of the eccentric Francis Abbot. In 1852 two enormous pieces of the precipice here, reaching from the top to the bottom, broke off and fell with a crash like thunder.

While gazing at the sublime sight here, and taking in at a single sweep the whole scene of the glorious Falls of Niagara, let us pause a while and reflect upon the fate of

Francis Abbot, The Hermit of the Falls

IN the month of June 1829, a tall, gentlemanly, but haggard-looking young man, made his appearance at the village of the Falls. He brought with him a large portfolio and several books and musical instruments. For a few weeks he paid daily and nightly visits to the most interesting points of Niagara, and at length became so fascinated with the beauty and sublimity of the scene, that he resolved to take up his abode there altogether! No one knew whence the young stranger came. Those who conversed with him asserted that he was talented and engaging in his manners and address; but he was not communicative, and shunned the company of man. At the end of a few weeks he applied for permission to build himself a cottage on one of the Three Sisters; but circumstances preventing this, he took up his residence in an old cottage on Goat Island. Here the young hermit spent his days and nights in solitary contemplation of the great cataract; and when winter came, the dwellers on the mainland saw the twinkle of his wood-fire, and listened wonderingly to the sweet tones of music that floated over the troubled waters and mingled with the thunder of the Falls.

This wonderful recluse seemed never to rest. At all hours of the day and night he might be seen wandering around the object of his adoration. Not content with gazing at the rapids, he regularly bathed in the turbulent waters, and the bathing-place of Francis Abbot is still pointed out to visitors. At the Terrapin Bridge there is a single beam of timber which projects its tremulous end about ten feet over the roaring flood. Along this the hermit was in the habit of walking. He did so without the smallest sign of fear, - with a firm, bold step proceeding to the very end, turning on his heel and walking back again. One day in June 1831 he went to bathe in the river below the Falls. Not long afterwards his clothes were found still lying on the bank, but Francis Abbot was gone. The waters which he had so recklessly dared had claimed him as their own at last. His body was found ten days afterwards at the mouth of the river, whence it was conveyed to Niagara and buried close to the thundering Fall he loved so well.

Returning to Biddle’s Stairs, let us descend, and, taking the road to the left, go view the

Horseshoe Fall From Below Goat Island

THE sight is terrific. The frowning cliff seems about to fall on us, and we are stunned by the roar of the water as it falls headlong on the broken rocks, bursts into white foam, and re-ascends in clouds of spray. Terrapin Bridge and Tower, now diminished by distance, seem about to be swept over the Fall, above the edge of which we see the trees of Canada. Portions of the rock fall here occasionally, so that the passage is not altogether unattended with danger.

Returning to the foot of the stairs, we follow the road to the right until we reach the famous

Cave of the Winds

IT is situated at the foot of the rock between Goat and Luna Islands, and is considered by some to be one of the finest and most wonderful sights on the American side. Here it is necessary to put on waterproof dresses and obtain a guide – both of which are at all times at our command. The cave has been formed by the action of the water on the soft substratum of the precipice, which has been washed away and the limestone rock left arching overhead 30 feet beyond the base. In front the transparent Falls form a beautiful curtain. In consequence of the tremendous pressure on the atmosphere, this cave is filled with perpetual storms, and the war of conflicting elements is quite chaotic. A beautiful rainbow, quite circular in form, quivers amid the driving spray when the sun shines. The cave is 100 feet wide, 130 feet high, and upwards of 30 feet deep. Along thefloor of this remarkable cavern the spray is hurled with considerable violence, so that it strikes the walls and curls upwards along the ceiling, thus the rough turmoil which has procured for this place its title of the Cave of the Winds. It is much visited by ladies as well as gentlemen, and a good railing has been put up, as well as one or two seats, by the proprietor.

Re-ascending Biddle’s Stairs we will now proceed to the Head of Goat Island

The road runs quite round it. Turning to the right, in the direction of Terrapin Bridge, we observe that the rock is wearing away fast here. In 1843 an enormous mass fell from the precipice with a tremendous crash, and the rock lies near the foot of the stairs.

Passing along the edge of the rapids, we come to the Three Sisters, (already described); and here, between Moss Island and the shore, is a small but beautiful fall, named the Hermit’s Cascade. Hither the unfortunate Abbot was want to repair daily to enjoy a shower bath of nature’s own constructing. Proceeding onwards, we reach the head of Iris Island and the cottage in which Abbot lived before removing to his last residence, at Prospect Point.

In June of 1854 Mr. Robinson performed a daring feat here. a sand scow, or a flat bottom barge, having broken loose of its mooring, lodged on the rocks near the head of the island. There was property on board which Mr Robinson offered to save. Embarking with his son in a skiff, he shot out into the rapids, and was carried with terrible swiftness down towards the scow, upon which the son sprang as they flew past, and very cleverly fastened the skiff to it. having obtained the goods for which they ran so great risk, the fearless pair pushed of once more, and flew like an arrow on the surging billows towards the Three Sisters. Every one thought their doom was sealed, for they were flying towards the small cascade, to go over which would have been certain death. But, on its very verge they swept adroitly into an eddy, and succeeded in gaining the second Sister. Here they carried their skiff to the foot of the island, where they launched it, and, plying their oars with vigour, made a bold sweep down the rapids, and gained the shore of Goat Island in safety.

The view from the head of Goat Island is very fine, the wild river and its environs being seen for a considerable distance. Navy Island, celebrated in history of boarder warfare; the site of old Fort Schlosser on the American side; the town of Chippewa on the Canada shore; Grand Island, &c., are all visible from this point. As we gaze at the wild rapids, we wonder at the hardihood of those who ventured to descend to the spot on which we now stand before the bridge was built. Yet this was occasionally done, at much risk, in Indian canoes. It is said that any one falls into the rapids a mile above the Falls is hurried to almost certain destruction; and there are many melancholy instances of the kind.

A few years ago an Indian attempted, while in a state of partial intoxication, to cross the river in his canoe. He was drawn into the rapids, and, despite his utmost efforts, failed to reach the shore. Knowing that his doom was fixed, he took a draught of spirits, and then, lying down at full length in the canoe, was hurled over the Falls into eternity.

In proceeding down the island we pass a spot where there are several graves, out of which human remains have been dug. They were found in a sitting position, and it is supposed they were those of ancient Indian warriors who first owned the land around the Falls.

Niagara in Winter

IN all its phases this wondrous cataract is sublime, but in winter, when its dark green waters contrast with pure white snow, and its frosty vapour spouts up into the chill atmosphere from a perfect chaos of ice and foam, there is a perfection of savage grandeur about it which cannot be realized in the green months of summer.

At this season ice is the ruling genius of the spot,. The spray which bursts from the thundering cataract encrusts every object with a coat of purest dazzling white. The trees bend gracefully under its weight, as if in silent homage to the spirit of the Falls. Every twig is covered, every bough is laden; and those parts of the socks and trees on which the delicate frost-work will not lie, stand out in bold contrast. At the foot of the Falls block rises on block in wild confusion, and the cold, dismal-looking water, hurries its green floods over the brink, and roars hoarsely as it rushes into the vortex of dazzling white below. The trees of Goat Island seem partially buried; the bushes around have almost disappeared; the houses seem to sink under their ponderous coverings of white; every rail is edged with it; and the dark form of the Terrapin Tower stands like a lone sentinel guarding the scene of magnificent desolation.

When the sun shines, all becomes radiant with glittering gems; and the mind is almost overwhelmed with the combined effect of excessive brilliancy and excessive grandeur. But since a scene cannot be described.

Our view is taken from the Canadian side, a short distance above Prospect House.

Niagara by moonlight

IT were vain to attempt a description of this magical scene. Every one knows the peculiar softness and the sweet influence of moonlight shed over a lovely scene. Let not the traveler fail to visit Goat Island when the moon shines high and clear, and view Niagara by her pale, mysterious light.

Legend of the White Canoe

IN days of old, long before the deep solitudes of the West were disturbed by white men, it was the custom of the Indian warriors of the forest to assemble at the Great Cataract and offer a human sacrifice to the Spirit of the Falls. The offering consisted of a white canoe full of ripe fruits and blooming flowers, which was paddled over the terrible cliff by the fairest girl of the tribe who had just arrived at the age of womanhood. It was counted an honour by the tribe to whose lot it fell to make the costly sacrifice; and even the doomed maiden deemed it a high compliment to be selected to guide the white canoe over the Falls. But in the Stoical heart of the red man there are tender feelings, which cannot be subdued, and cords, which snap if strained too roughly.

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The Whirlpool

The only daughter of a chief of the Seneca Indians who was chosen as a sacrificial offering to the Spirit of Niagara. Her mother had been slain by a hostile tribe. Her father was the bravest among the warriors, and his stern brow seldom relaxed save to his blooming child, who was now the only joy, which he clung on earth. When the lot fell on his fair child no symptoms of feeling crossed his countenance. In the pride of Indian endurance he crushed down the feeling that tore his bosom, and no tear trembled in his dark eye as the preparations for the sacrifice went forward. At length the day arrived; it faded into night as the savage festivities and rejoicing proceeded; then the moon arose and silvered the cloud of mist that rose from out the turmoil of Niagara; and now the white canoe, laden with its precious freight, glided from the bank and swept out into the dread rapid from which escape is hopeless. The young girl calmly steered her tiny bark towards the centre of the stream, while frantic yells and shouts arose from the forest. Suddenly another white canoe shot forth upon the stream, and, under the powerful impulse of the Seneca Chief, flew like an arrow to destruction. It overtook the first; the eyes of father and child met in one last gaze of love, and, then, they plunged together over the thundering cataract into eternity!

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THE Falls of Niagara will doubtless occupy nearly all the time and engross all the interest of visitors; nevertheless there are several objects in the vicinity which are worthy of special attention. In enumerating these, we will adopt the plan of beginning at the cataract and descend to Lake Ontario; afterwards we will describe the river from Lake Erie to the Falls. The first object of interest below the cataract is

The Niagara Suspension Bridge

WHICH spans the river about two miles below the Falls. We may mention in passing, that there are two caves – Catlin’s Cave and the Giant’s Cave – between the Bridge and the Falls, on the American side; and Bender’s Cave on the Canada side. They are, however, hardly worthy of notice.

The Suspension Bridge is a noble and stupendous structure. It is the work of Mr John A. Roebling of Trenton, New Jersey, and was begun in 1852. Formerly the bridge here was of much smaller dimensions. It was begun in 1849 by Mr Charles Elliot, who first crossed it in an iron basket, slung under a single cable of iron wire. Afterwards many people crossed in this way, being let down the incline and drawn up on the opposite side by a windlass. While six men were employed on the foot-path of this bridge, a terrific gale burst upon them, tore the planks away, and left four of their number clinging to two thin wires, whish swung fearfully to and fro, while the whirling rapids raged beneath them. The other two escaped on fragments of board to the shore. A brave comrade descended in the basket, during a lull in the gale, and by means of a ladder rescued his companions from their awful position. The basket is still to be seen on the Canada side.

The present bridge is of enormous strength, and forms a communication between Canada and the States, over which the carriages of the Great West and New York Central Railroads, and cars of every description, run without causing the slightest vibration. The cost of its construction was 500,000 dollars (more than £100,000 sterling); and steam carriages first crossed it on the 8th March 1855. The road for carriages is suspended 28 feet below the railway line.

The following statistics of this enormous bridge will be interesting: the height of the towers on the American side is 88 feet; those on the Canada side are 78 feet high. Length of bridge is 800 feet; width, 24 feet; height above the river, 250 feet. There are four enormous wire cables of about 10 inches diameter, which contains about 400 miles of wire; and the ultimate capacity of the four cables is about 12, 400 tons. The total weight of the bridge is 800 tons; and it combines, in an eminent degree, strength with elegance of structure. Our Engraving is from a photograph.

Lundy’s Lane Battle Ground

IS about a mile and a half from the Falls, near to Clifton House. This great battle between the Americans and the British was fought on the 25th July 1814. the number of killed and wounded on both sides was about equal, and both parties, as a matter of course, claim victory! Drummondville in the immediate vicinity is named after General Drummond, then commander of the British forces.

Niagara City stands on either side of the Suspension Bridge, but it is not yet deserving of the title of a city.

The Whirlpool

ABOUT three miles below the Falls the river takes an abrupt turn, and shoots with great violence against the cliff on the Canada side, forming what is called the Whirlpool. Our Engraving is from a drawing by the graphic pencil of Mr Field. The scenery around this caldron is exceedingly wild.

A short distance farther on are the Mineral Springs, sometimes called Belle Vue Fountain.

The Rapids, just below the Whirlpool, are very fine.

Less than half a mile farther down the river, on the American side, is

The Devil’s Hole

A terribly gloomy and savage chasm in the bank of the river, between one and two hundred feet deep. Overhanging this dark cavern is a perpendicular precipice, from thye top of which falls a small stream named the Bloody Run. The stream obtained its name from the following tragic incident: -

During the French war in 1763, a detachment of British soldiers (consisting of, some say 100, some 50 men,) was forwarded with a large supply of provisions from Fort Niagara to Fort Schlosser. The Seneca Indians, then in the pay of the French, resolved to lay an ambuscade for them, and chose this dark spot for their enterprise. The savages, who were numerous, scattered themselves along the hillsides, and lay concealed among the bushes until the British came up end had passed the precipice; then, uttering a terrific yell, they descended like a whirlwind, and, before the soldiers had time to form, pored into their confused ranks a withering volley of bullets. The little stream ran red with blood, and the whole party – soldiers, wagons, horses, and drivers – were hurled over the cliff into the yawning gulf below, and dashed to pieces on the rocks. Only two escaped to tell the tale; the one a soldier, who returned during the night to Fort Niagara; the other a Mr Stedman, who dashed his horse through the ranks of the enemies, and escaped amid a shower of bullets.

The Ice Cave is also an object of attraction in this locality.

Chasm Tower is a short distance below. It is 75 feet high, and affords a fine view of the river and surrounding scenery.

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Brock’s Monument

STANDS on the Queenston Heights, Canada side, just above the village of that name. This monument was raised in commemoration of the British General, Sir Isaac Brock, who fell in the sanguinary action fought on this spot on the 13th October 1812. His remains, and those of his aid-de-camp, Colonel John M’Donald, who died of wounds received in the same battle, are buried here.

The first monument was completed in 1826, and was blown up in 1840 by a person named Lett, who was afterwards imprisoned for this dastardly act. The present handsome shaft was erected in 1853. its height is 185 feet; the base is of freestone, fluted, 75 feet high and 30 feet in circumference, surmounted by a Corinthian capital, on which stands a statue of the gallant General.

The view from this monument is most gorgeous. The eye wanders with untiring delight over the richest imaginable scene of woodland and water. Just below is the village of Queenston, and on the opposite shore is Lewiston. In the midst flows the now tranquil River Niagara – calm and majestic in its recovered serenity. In far distance, on either side, stretches the richly wooded landscape, speckled with villas and cottages. At the mouth of the river are the town of Niagara on the Canadian side, and Youngstown on the American. Its entrance is guarded on the latter side by Fort Niagara, and on the former by Fort Massasauga. The whole view is terminated by the magnificent sheet of Lake Ontario, which stretches away like a flood of light to the horizon.

Queenston

IS a small picturesque town, and is worthy of notice chiefly on account of the memorable battle that took place on the neighbouring heights.

Lewiston

JUST opposite Queenston, is a beautifully situated town, about seven miles from the Falls. It is a place of some importance, and stands at the head of navigation on the river; contains several excellent hotels and public buildings. The Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Lewiston Railroad terminus is here. There is a village of Tuscarora Indians three miles from this. Lewiston was destroyed by the British in 1813, and rebuilt at the termination of the war.

Just above those two towns is the

Lewiston Suspension Bridge

THIS is the finest bridge of its kind in America. It was erected in 1850 by E.W. Serrell, Esq., of Canada, and belongs to a joint company of Americans and Canadians. Its length is 1045 feet; and it is suspended by ten massive cables, which pass over stone towers, and are attached to anchors embedded deep in the solid rock.

Niagara Town

STANDS on the Canada shore, opposite Youngstown, on the site of Newark, which was burnt in 1813 by General M’Lure. Its prosperity has been injured somewhat by the Welland Canal. A short distance above the town are the remains of Fort George, which was taken by the Americans in 1813, afterwards destroyed by the British, and left in ruins.

Fort Niagara, on the American side, has many historical associations, which we have not space to touch upon. The English General Prideaux fell here in the battle of 24th July 1759, and the French garrison afterwards surrendered to Sir William Johnson.

Fort Massasauga, at the mouth of the river, opposite Fort Niagara, is a little below the town of Niagara, and is garrisoned by British soldiers.

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