After two hundred years, the City of Hamilton has become known as one of the largest industrial centres in Canada. At its root are 156 waterfalls, both beautiful and rich with history, which jump-started these industries, providing power to several mills throughout the 1800’s. 

Today, Hamilton’s thriving industries and its waterfalls are entirely separate elements. Many of the waterfalls can be visited as recreational attractions. However, many people are unaware of their hidden histories. Through this project I have brought the two elements back together, revealing the detailed histories behind the falls. 

Through my own photographs, I have documented five individual waterfalls and their surrounding areas as they are today. Furthermore, archival photos paired with each fall reveal the development or lack thereof, of the land now compared to what it was two centuries ago, while also revealing hidden stories through smaller details.

In addition to the historical representation, pieces of lightweight flowing fabric hang throughout the exhibition, providing an immersive experience for the viewer. While walking through these images, the viewer quite literally has to see past them, to reveal additional layers of history being conveyed. It is these layers of history which are not normally recognized, being obstructed by what is right in front of you.