Interesting Facts About the History of the Niagara Falls

Whether you’re an amateur historian or a professional historian, learning about the history of the Niagara Falls can be a rewarding experience. Here are some interesting facts about the Falls, from its origin to the modern day.

Historic buildings

Throughout the history of the Niagara Falls region, many significant industries have shaped the local landscape. They have also contributed to the American imagination. Some of the most significant historic buildings in the Niagara Falls area are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The industrial landscape of Niagara Falls was dramatically changed when the Niagara Reservation was established in 1885. Previously, the area was untouched wilderness. It had been an important stop on the Underground Railroad. It was also part of the Iroquois Confederacy. It was later restored to a natural state.

After the railroad arrived in 1840, industries began to take hold. Some early industrial structures were built on land leased by the Niagara Falls Power Company. Others were built on land owned by the Niagara Reservation.

Power station

During the 19th century, Niagara Falls became the center of a power station history that was both dramatic and complex. It was a time of heightened technological optimism. The Niagara Falls Commission recruited experts from around the world to prepare proposals for the power project. Then, Premier James Whitney banned private hydro-electric power franchises at Niagara Falls.

In 1892, the Canadian Niagara Power Company was formed. It was initially affiliated with the Niagara Falls Power Company. In 2000, the company was purchased by Fortis Incorporated Power Group.

Initially, the Canadian Niagara Power Company operated a small power station above the Horseshoe Falls. This station was the first in the United States to use alternating current, or AC, to power a plant. Originally, the system was built by George Westinghouse.

Carborundum company

Founded in 1891, the Carborundum Company was a manufacturer of silicone carbide. Its headquarters were located in Niagara Falls, New York. The company was founded by Edward Goodrich Acheson. Acheson was a pioneer in a new industry.

In 1890, Acheson was trying to duplicate diamonds by electrically fusing a mixture of carbon and clay. He also sought to find a less expensive source of electric power. Acheson had found a new electric production plant on the Niagara Falls, and was soon able to supply his new industry.

Acheson dubbed the crystals he made from the mixture Carborundum. The company was founded in 1891, and by 1895, Carborundum had built a factory in Monongahela, Pennsylvania. In 1924, the company built its world headquarters at 1625 Buffalo Avenue in Niagara Falls.

Niacet Chemicals Corporation

Located in Niagara Falls, New York, Niacet is a global company that manufactures a wide range of acetates, propionates, and acid salts. These products serve the food, pharmaceutical, and technical industries. These products are produced in two fully automated production plants.

Niacet has a long history of making products with World-Class quality. It manufactures similar acetates, as well as organic acid salts. Niacet’s products fill vital needs in everyday life. In addition, the company also serves as a supplier of acid salts for energy production.

Niacet is a leading producer of organic acid salts and propionates in North America. These salts are used in a variety of applications, including dialysis treatment and food preservation. In addition, the company produces sodium phenoxy acetate, a major ingredient in the fermentation of penicillin.

Night time illumination

During the night, Niagara Falls sparkles with colors. The awe-inspiring illumination of the falls has been a part of the attraction since 1860. The lights were first used to light the way for the arrival of the Prince of Wales.

The display was so impressive that it was repeated three times a half-hour. The light show is produced by the Niagara Falls Illumination Board. The show is comprised of subtle movements, inspired by winter in the north.

The board has recently announced a bold new initiative to introduce LED technology to the lights. This will help the display shine even brighter and consume up to 82% less power.

The new $4-million lighting grid will deliver twice the brightness and a wider range of colors. It also utilizes a quarter the energy of the previous system.