The Historic Mills district
For a while, in the late 1800s, hydroelectric plants could be seen right up near the edge of the Falls. The area became quite industrial, with plants supplying electricity to the surrounding homes, as well as further afield. The turbines could be seen turning all year round.
Following the deal with the tourism industry to limit the plants’ running during peak tourist season, the industrial nature of the surrounding area lessened, with economic activity focussed on providing an experience for the people who came to gaze at the power of nature, not man.