Niagara Falls History

During the Industrial Revolution of the early 19th Century, the natural beauty of Niagara Falls began to suffer as eager industrialists built mills and factories along the river to harness its power. By the late 1860s, a small group concerned about the preservation of the falls founded the Free Niagara movement, which held that the natural beauty of the land surrounding the falls should be protected from exploitation and free to the public. Members urged New York State to reclaim the falls and the surrounding area.

After more than 15 years of pressure, the Free Niagara crusaders won their battle. The Niagara Appropriations Bill was signed into law in 1885, creating the Niagara Reservation and signifying possibly the most important event in Niagara Falls history. New York State Assemblyman Thomas Vincent Welch figured prominently in getting the bill signed and served as the first superintendent of the park from its inception until 1903.

The leader of the Free Niagara movement was America’s first landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, perhaps better known for designing New York City’s Central Park. Olmsted believed that parks should be places of natural beauty, where “the masses could be renewed.” This philosophy was applied throughout Niagara Falls State Park, with an entire network of footpaths through wooded areas and along the banks of the Niagara River. Today, the park retains Olmsted’s vision by staying committed to maintaining native vegetation, unparalleled vistas and access to the general public. It’s a fitting tribute to the man who believed that Niagara Falls belongs to all of us.

Today, visitors flock to the park to learn the fascinating Niagara Falls history and experience the beauty that is Niagara Falls.

For Further Park Information, Please Call (716) 278-1796.