Born: July 7, 1853 (Italy)
Biography:
Maria Spelterini (sometimes spelled Spelterina and occasionally referred to as Marie) was an Italian tightrope walker who achieved remarkable feats and left an indelible mark in the world of circus entertainment. Born on July 7, 1853, in Italy, Spelterini began her circus career at the young age of three, performing alongside her family members. Her early introduction to the circus world laid the foundation for an extraordinary life that would captivate audiences across the globe.
Spelterini’s talent and determination led her to embark on a series of daring tightrope walking challenges that brought her both fame and recognition. One of her most iconic achievements took place on July 8, 1876, during the celebration of the U.S. Centennial. She became the first and only woman to cross the treacherous Niagara Gorge on a tightrope. Utilizing a 57mm wire, she carefully traversed the gorge just north of the lower suspension bridge, leaving spectators in awe.
Not content with a single crossing, Spelterini defied expectations by accomplishing additional remarkable feats in subsequent crossings. On July 12, 1876, she astounded the audience by crossing the Niagara Gorge while wearing peach baskets strapped to her feet. This incredible display of balance and agility solidified her reputation as a fearless tightrope walker.
Spelterini’s audacity knew no bounds as she further pushed the limits of her skills. On July 19, she crossed the Niagara Gorge blindfolded, displaying exceptional focus and concentration. To add to her astounding achievements, on July 22, she crossed the gorge with her ankles and wrists manacled, showcasing both her physical strength and unwavering resolve.
Her final trip across the Niagara Gorge on a tightrope took place on July 27, 1876. With each crossing, Spelterini’s name became synonymous with courage and her performances drew crowds from across the country. Thousands flocked to witness her extraordinary displays of skill and bravery, leaving her with not only admiration but also numerous tokens of appreciation.
Prior to her adventures in Niagara, Spelterini had already made a significant impact on the European circus scene. She embarked on tours across the continent, captivating audiences across major cities. From crossing the Moskva River in Moscow to traversing the River Neva in St. Petersburg, her performances stunned spectators and solidified her reputation as an unparalleled tightrope walker.
In August 1872, Spelterini wowed crowds with her remarkable crossings in Saint Aubin on the Island of Jersey, and the following year, in Catalan. Her daring acts garnered attention from international media, with a feature in the French newspaper L’Univers illustré in October 1873 showcasing her crossing of the harbor at Saint Aubin, Jersey, along with her portrait.
In 1876, Spelterini set her sights on the United States, arriving in New York to perform at the Jones Wood Coliseum. Audiences eagerly paid twenty-five cents to witness her remarkable tricks on the wire, including running backward and sitting in a chair, all while wearing flamboyant costumes that added an element of theatricality to her performances.
Her unwavering ambition led her to seek permission to tightrope between the towers of the Brooklyn Bridge, then still under construction. However, her request was denied, compelling her to turn her attention back to Niagara Falls as the backdrop for her groundbreaking stunts. The allure of witnessing the only woman to conquer the majestic Niagara Falls drew massive crowds, eager to partake in the sensation Spelterini created.
After her time in the United States, Spelterini returned to Europe, and little is known of her later life. Despite the relative mystery surrounding her later years, Maria Spelterini’s legacy lives on as one of the most audacious and awe-inspiring female performers in history.