The Great Blondin

Charles to his friends. Died 106 years ago today. Born 189 years ago on Sunday. This statue is on Ladywood Middleway in Birmingham and is to commemorate his tightrope walk across nearby Edgbaston Reservoir on 6th September 1873. So far I haven't been able to find out his 'route' across the reservoir. Of course, he's much more famous for crossing Niagara Falls. Surprisingly, he died of natural causes and is buried in Kensal Green Cemetery - his fan club will be meeting there at the weekend. It's difficult to do a little thin guy with lots of sky justice with a point and shoot but Ladywood is not a good place to draw attention to yourself with an expensive looking camera.