— Compiled by Betty Jane Wilson, Valley Falls Historical Society president
Men and boys and their balloon escapades, regardless of century or outcome, tragic, adventurous, utilitarian, or comedic, have proved newsworthy.
“Eighty Days Around the World,” the incredible tragic dirigible, the priceless weather balloon, and even the account of the hapless youngster exploited by an allegedly publicity seeking father claiming his son was aboard an unmanned balloon, won their share of headlines.
Not all balloon events gained notoriety. The Valley Falls New Era, Aug. 31, 1905, carried a rave review of a recent “Glorious Carnival — The Best Ever — The Attractions of a Higher Order”— then added matter of factly that just as the balloon man was about to make his ascension, a boy about 14 years of age tried to jump across the attached balloon ropes. The boy’s feet became entangled in the ropes, already loosened for ascension and he was dragged into the air. The alert balloonist quickly cut the ropes freeing the boy and the balloons averting a tragic balloon accident.
Devoid of publicity and fanfare, an heroic, nameless carnival performer and a lucky, nameless teenager, and the incident are imbedded in the annals of Valley Falls balloon history.
The Valley Falls Historical Society museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 20, Admission is free.
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