BOBBY LEACH
1910, 1911
(Survived)
In 1908, English stuntman Bobby Leach jumped off the Upper Steel Arch Bridge across Niagara River using a parachute, becoming the fourth person to do so.
In the summer of 1910, Leach failed in his first attempt to ride a barrel through the Great Gorge Rapids to the Whirlpool. The barrel got stuck in an eddy in the Whirlpool and Leach was rescued by William “Red” Hill, Sr. Risking his life, Hill swam out to where Leach’s barrel was and dragged it ashore. Leach was removed from the barrel unconscious.
During that summer, Leach made three other successful barrel trips through the famous Whirlpool Rapids.
On July 25, 1911, Bobby Leach climbed into an 8-foot long steel drum at Navy Island where it was released. It took 18 minutes to reach the brink of the Horseshoe Falls before plunging down. The barrel became stuck in the river at the base of the falls, from where it was hauled to the Canadian shore. Leach suffered multiple fractures from this stunt with two broken kneecaps and a broken jaw.
He died in April of 1926 at the age of 70 in Christchurch, New Zealand. He is said to have slipped on an orange peel, fracturing his leg. He died due to complications from infection and amputation of the foot.
Mississauga To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Mississauga To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Niagara Falls Canada Helicopter Tour
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Toronto To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
Oakville To Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour (Small Group. Includes Boat Cruise & Wine Tasting)
