kids encyclopedia robot

High Falls (Rochester, New York) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
High Falls
HighFallsRochesterNY July 2010.JPG
View from Pont De Rennes bridge, Rochester, New York.
Lua error in Module:Infobox_mapframe at line 185: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value).
Location Rochester
(New York, United States)
Coordinates 43°09′41″N 77°36′49″W / 43.1615°N 77.6135°W / 43.1615; -77.6135 (High Falls)
Type Cataract
Total height 96 ft (29 m)
Number of drops 1
Watercourse Genesee River

The High Falls are a really cool waterfall located in the city of Rochester, New York. These falls are on the Genesee River. Rochester actually has three waterfalls within its city limits, and High Falls is the biggest one! The other two, called the Middle and Lower Falls, are about two miles downstream.

Long ago, the High Falls area was super important for Rochester's early growth. Many factories and businesses were built here because they could use the power of the falling water. For example, a special channel called Brown's Race was built to take water from above the falls. This water then powered many flour mills and other industries. Today, this water is still used to create clean energy through hydroelectric power!

Where to See the Falls

You can get an amazing view of the High Falls from the Pont De Rennes bridge. This bridge is just for people walking and biking. It stretches across the Genesee River, only a short distance from the bottom of the falls. It's a perfect spot for taking pictures!

A Famous Jumper: Sam Patch

The High Falls were once the site of a famous event involving a daredevil named Sam Patch. He was known as "The Yankee Leaper" because he loved to jump from high places into water. In 1829, Sam Patch attempted a jump from the High Falls. Sadly, this was his last jump.

High Falls in the City's Symbol

The High Falls are so important to Rochester that an abstract picture of them is used on the logo of Rochester New York FC. This soccer team uses the falls as a symbol of their city.

kids search engine
High Falls (Rochester, New York) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.