This iconic natural wonder had always been in my admiration, but now I was about to experience it firsthand. As I moved on my journey, the sound of rushing water grew louder, signaling that I was nearing my destination. Finally, I caught my first glimpse of the 2200 ft falls; a towering flow of water crashing down into the river below. It was a sight to behold, and I couldn’t wait to get closer.
Standing at the edge of the falls, I couldn’t help but think about the indigenous peoples who have revered this site for centuries. The Seneca and Haudenosaunee nations have long held the falls sacred, and their stories are an essential part of its history.
As I stood before Niagara Falls, I recalled the past that took place here. Just as the rushing waters of Niagara Falls flow from order to chaos, so too did the turbulent times in which Ann, the first person to cross it in the barrel, lived. Her journey to secure her future financially, penned with honesty and vulnerability, reflects the wild currents of fear and uncertainty that swept through Europe during World War II.
One of the best parts of my visit was the Maid of the Mist boat tour, which took me right up to the base of the falls. Feeling the thunderous roar of the water and seeing it up close was an unforgettable experience that left me in awe of the sheer force of nature.
As I gazed out at America’s Greatest Waterfall, I couldn’t help but awe at the sight. The whole atmosphere was incredible. Niagara Falls is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a living testament to the struggles of the people who crossed it and shaped American history. As I walked away, I carried with me a newfound appreciation for the natural world and the stories it has to tell.
