High Falls (Rochester, New York) Explained

High Falls
Location:Rochester
(New York, United States)
Watercourse:Genesee River
Type:Cataract
Height:96 ft (29 m)
Number Drops:1

The High Falls or Upper Falls are a waterfall on the Genesee River in the city of Rochester, New York. They are one of three waterfalls within the city; the Middle and Lower Falls are about downstream. The High Falls area was the site of much of Rochester's early industrial development, where industry was powered by falling water. Brown's Race diverts water from above the falls and was used to feed various flour mills and industries; today the water is used to produce hydroelectric power.[1]

The High Falls may be viewed from the Pont De Rennes bridge, a pedestrian bridge that spans the Genesee River a few hundred feet from the base of the falls.[2]

The High Falls were the site of the final jump of "The Yankee Leaper" Sam Patch who died after jumping off of the High Falls in 1829.[3]

An abstract representation of the High Falls is used on the logo of Rochester New York FC as a symbol of the city.[4]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: City of Rochester Walking Tour of High Falls Brown's-Race Historic District. www.cityofrochester.gov. May 31, 2018.
  2. Web site: High Falls of the Genesee in Rochester. gowaterfalling.com.
  3. Web site: Sam Patch biography. who2.com.
  4. Web site: Driffill . Matt . Rhinos no more: Rochester New York FC announces ‘new era’ of local professional soccer . rochesterfirst.com . Nexstar Media Inc . 10 September 2021 . 1 September 2021.