The island that divides the Canadian and American Niagara Falls

While 90 per cent of the water coming down the Niagara River goes over the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, only 10 per cent flows over the American Bridal Veil Falls.

The reason is Goat Island. If it did not exist, both sides would merge and become one massive waterfall separating Ontario from New York State.

However, since it does exist, the channel between the western end of Goat Island and New York only allows that small fraction of the river’s flow over the American Falls.

The island is on the American side of the river and as such is part of the oldest state park in the U.S., the Niagara Reservation State Park created in 1885.

Back in the 1700s, the island was a very different place. While now jammed with tourists, who can access it from two separate bridges, back then it was called Iris Island.

It was claimed by early settler and miller John Stedman, who used it to keep his livestock animals safe since there weren’t any predators on the island. In addition, the river acted as a natural barrier so the animals would not escape.

Unfortunately, the winter of 1778 proved to be very brutal, as all of Stedman’s livestock animals had perished, with the exception of one resilient goat that survived. Thus, it was given a new name – Goat Island.

To the top and right, the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. To the lower left, the American side.

The island was formed during the recent retreat of the falls as it cut inward (upstream) through the Niagara Escarpment.

In 1959–60, the island’s eastern side was extended about 8.5 acres (34,000 m²) for additional parking and a helicopter pad In 1955, the area between the Terrapin Rocks and Goat Island (see above photo) was filled in, creating Terrappin Point.