Originally printed by Examiner.com
On this day in NY history: Daredevil crossed Niagara Falls by tightrope, considered a trailblazer
June 30, 1859
One hundred and fifty years ago today, Niagara Falls was jammed with people. The excited crowd of 5,000 waited to see an astonishing feat. A French acrobat, “The Great Blondin,” was about to attempt to be the first man to cross the Falls by tightrope. Blondin, a slightly built man, appeared. He wore a bright purple velvet tunic, white silk pantaloons and white shoes. He carried a long, narrow pole. The crowd held its breath as he stepped out onto the rope (more…)