On May 12, U.S. Postal Service honored Niagara Falls, one of the greatest natural wonders of the world, on a new international rate postage stamp. Starting when new international postage rates go into effect at 12:01 a.m., May 30, 1999, the 48-cent Niagara Falls stamp became good for postage on letters or letter packages weighing not more than one-half ounce being mailed to Canada. The stamp is available at all post offices starting May 13, 1999.

Niagara Falls is composed of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Canadian/Horseshoe Falls, and is the largest producer of electric power in the free world. Twenty percent of the world’s freshwater supply flows over Niagara Falls. The American Falls, over which 10 percent of the water flows, are 180 feet high and 1,000 feet long.

Designed by Ethel Kessler of Bethesda, Md., the stamp features a photograph of Niagara Falls by Kurt Ross of North Tonawanda, N.Y. The American Falls appear in the foreground, with the Canadian/Horseshoe Falls appearing in the background.