Signorina Maria Spelterini became the first woman to ever cross the Niagara River gorge on a tight rope.
Spelterini was a beautiful 23 year old woman of Italian descent. She made her debut on July 8th 1876 performing a successful crossing using a 5.7 cm wire located just north of the lower suspension bridge.
After the first success Maria Spelterini proved herself equal to those tight rope walkers that preceded her by performing miraculous feats. On July 12th 1876, Spelterini crossed wearing peach baskets strapped to her feet. One week later, she crossed blind folded and only three days later, Spelterini crossed with her ankles and wrists handcuffed.
On July 26th 1876, Maria Spelterini made her farewell crossing in Niagara Falls.