1910 Gies Pictorial Bird's Eye View / Map of the Niagara Falls

This is an extremely attractive c. 1910 panorama of the Niagara Falls by the Gies Company. This bird’s-eye view map depicts the Niagara Gorge and the Great Gorge Route or the Niagara Belt Line. Important monuments are illustrated: Brock’s Monument, Whirlpool Rapids, Devil’s Hole, Niagara Falls, and Table Rock, among others. The route of the Niagara Belt Line is highlighted with orange trolley cars.

History of the Trolley Line

In 1895, the International Railway Company founded The Great Gorge Route scenic attraction, an electric trolley belt line that surrounded the Niagara Gorge. Both the Canadian and American routes are depicted here. In Canada, the route ran from Niagara Falls to Queenston, while the American route ran from Niagara Falls to Lewiston. Considered one of the most scenic routes in the world, visitors riding the belt line could witness exceptional views of the whirlpool rapids, Devil’s Hole, the Narrows, and the Giant Rock. The route was closed in 1935 following the Great Depression. Today, visitors can hike the Niagara Gorge Trail, which follows the abandoned track. The verso includes detailed information and photographs about the belt line and the falls.

Production History

This map was issued by The Gies Company, Buffalo, c. 1910.