A piece of written history nearly as old as European knowledge of the falls themselves is coming to the Niagara Falls History Museum.
The City of Niagara Falls museum will receive a rare 1698 edition of A New Discovery of a Vast Country in America, donated by Bob and Vera Gale, according to a City of Niagara Falls media release. The volume includes the first known written description and illustration of Niagara Falls recorded by a European.
The book, written by French missionary and explorer Father Louis Hennepin and published in London in 1698, will be formally presented to the museum on Thursday, November 12 at 2 p.m.
A first-hand account of the Great Lakes
Hennepin's account describes his travels through the Great Lakes region alongside French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle. Their journey began in 1678 and eventually carried them to the Mississippi River.
The book became widely read across Europe and is credited with inspiring generations of travellers and explorers to make their way to Niagara Falls. Hennepin's early illustration of the falls circulated widely, introducing the natural wonder to audiences around the world long before the invention of photography.
A significant addition to the city's collection
The donated volume is believed to be a rare first issue of the 1698 English edition, giving it both historical and monetary value. The city says it represents a valuable addition to the museum's collection.
The City of Niagara Falls has thanked the Gales for their generosity, saying their gift helps preserve an important part of the city's history for future generations.
The Niagara Falls History Museum is part of the City of Niagara Falls' museums and heritage division, led by manager Suzanne Moase. Further information about the donation can be obtained by contacting the museum at smoase@niagarafalls.ca or 905-356-7521.
