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Farina, with a man on his back, crossing the Niagara on a tightrope... August 29, 1860. Creator: Unknown
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Farina, with a man on his back, crossing the Niagara on a tightrope... August 29, 1860. Creator: Unknown
Farina [sic], with a man on his back, crossing the Niagara on a tightrope - from a sketch taken by the late master H. Ingram, from Clifton House balcony, August 29, 1860....Mr. Mullin having been strapped on his back, [Farini] took his balancing-pole and started; but only went a few feet, for the tackling of the rider was out of order, and they had to return. Things were soon put to rights, and off they went, cautiously, and apparently unsteady; but they reached the first parallel guy, where the rider dismounted. Both sat down on the rope, a slight cheer was given, and Mullin taking off his cap waved it in the air. Another start was made, and they went on, until, reaching near the centre of the rope, they sat down again. Mullin calmly surveyed the scene, took off his cap again, and, taking a steady view of the Falls, appeared to be quite unconcerned. Farini, meantime, motioned for the little steamer Maid of the Mist to come nearer the rope, when he suspended himself by his arms and turned a somersault. They sat together after this for some time, chatting away, and pointing first at one object and then another. The rider mounting again, they turned back to the American shore, and, after a tedious journey, reached it in safety'. From "Illustrated London News", 1860
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Media ID 36349062
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Cataract Circus Circus Act Danger Dangerous Niagara Falls Niagara Falls North America Niagara New York State United States Paddle Steamer Paddle Steamers Peril Rope Steam Boat Steamboat Steamer Boat Tightrope Walker Waterfall
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photograph, taken on August 29, 1860, the legendary tightrope walker, Farini, is seen crossing the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls with a man, identified as Mullin, on his back. The image is derived from a sketch taken by the late master H. Ingram, captured from the Clifton House balcony. The scene portrays an exhilarating moment in the history of tightrope walking, as Farini, with unwavering determination, takes the first steps onto the thin, taut rope suspended high above the thundering waters. Mullin, securely strapped on his back, adds an extraordinary layer of complexity to the already daring act. However, their initial attempt was cut short as Mullin's tackling was found to be out of order. Quick adjustments were made, and the duo resumed their perilous journey. With each cautious step, they inched closer to the first parallel guy, where Mullin dismounted, giving a slight cheer to the onlookers below. The pair continued, reaching near the center of the rope, where they took a moment to rest and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Niagara Falls. Farini, ever the showman, suspended himself by his arms and performed a somersault, eliciting cheers from the crowd. They spent some time chatting and pointing out various landmarks before Mullin remounted, and they turned back to the American shore. After an arduous journey, they finally reached safety, leaving the onlookers in awe of their incredible feat. This photograph, taken from the pages of the "Illustrated London News," offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the daring spirit and unyielding courage of Farini and Mullin as they conquered the Niagara Falls on a tightrope.
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