Daredevils
Although Edson Taylor was the first person to survive a descent in a barrel, she wasn’t the first to try out a plunge. Through the 1800s, the pull of the Falls proved too strong for many, keen to pit themselves against the rushing waters. Not everyone was as lucky as her, however.
People have pushed off in metal barrels or large steel balls, like Bobby Leach, pictured here, or accidentally in boats. Since 1951, following the death of William Hill Jr., stunting has been banned at the Falls and daredevils will be fined $25,000. Unfortunately, this hasn’t stopped people from trying.