Niagara Falls turned off in the summer of 1969.
In the summer of 1969 the water flowing over the Niagara Falls was re-routed via a cofferdam so that engineers could clear debris and do geological work. The idea was to determine the feasibility of removing the large amount of loose rock from the base of the falls to enhance its appearance. In the end the decision was made that the expense would be too great.
Niagara Falls frozen in 1933
During an extended winter the Niagara Falls can freeze over. When the blanket of ice spans the entire Niagara River this is known as the 'ice bridge'. Since 1912, when 3 tourists lost their lives, it is illegal to walk across the ice bridge.
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I was there in 1969. It was quite a disappointment. It was the first time I was there and the American falls were turned off! Some 35 years later I paid another visit to the Falls and only then did I see it in full swing (including the Maiden of the Mist). Never saw it frozen so I guess I have to go back one time...
ReplyDeleteHi sir, you are lucky. You dont have to go back in time. It froze again.
DeleteIt doesn't look like it would be so difficult to remove the loose rock from the base, in fact it seems easy compared to turning of the water flow! The picture with ice like that is amazing.
ReplyDeleteI thought this was a spoof at first Rob. I'd never heard of the Falls being 'turned off' before . In a way it sems less likely than the natural phenomenon of it freezing.
ReplyDeleteOh, my! What a scene that must have first hand.
ReplyDeleteInteresting to see what the area looks like behind the Falls. The winter picture is fascinating - I'd love to see it frozen. Wonder how many times in the past 100 years the Falls have frozen? I can never look at a picture of Niagara Falls without thinking of all the people who have gone over the Falls in barrels or other contraptions. You couldn't pay me to do that. :)
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