A Victorian Daredevil Whose Daring Stunt Will Leave You Speechless

You think jumping off a plane is the epitome of a bold and gutsy move? We’re here to dispel any of those notions by introducing you to someone who was truly a rare breed of daredevil. Annie Edson Taylor is someone who got into the game not for the thrills, but because she was trying to secure a future for herself in the uncertain world of Industrial Revolution America.

1. Taylor never had it easy. As a child, she was one of eight siblings. Her father passed away when she was young. Undeterred by his loss, Taylor began studying to become a teacher as soon as she was old enough.

Taylor met her future husband during her studies, and the two were happy for some time. Sadly, the couple’s only child died in infancy, and Taylor’s husband passed away soon after. With a broken heart and few financial options, Taylor crossed the country. She took various jobs to support herself and secure her future.