Sonora Webster Carver was born on February 2, 1904, in Georgia. From a young age, she had a passion for horses and decided to pursue a career as a circus performer. Little did she know that this decision would lead her to become one of the most renowned horse divers of her time.
In 1923, at the age of 19, Sonora came across a circus performer job advertisement that would change the course of her life. She answered the ad and soon found herself diving from a 40-foot platform into a pool of water while riding a horse. This daring act was the beginning of Sonora's journey into the world of horse diving.
Sonora quickly gained fame for her fearless horse diving stunts. Crowds were amazed by her courage and skill as she dived from increasingly higher platforms with her trusty horse by her side. Her talent and showmanship made her a beloved figure in the circus world, and she soon became known as one of the first women to pursue a career as a circus horse diver.
Despite her success, tragedy struck when Sonora was 27 years old. While diving with her eyes open on her horse Red Lips, she lost her vision. Despite this devastating blow, Sonora refused to give up her passion for horse diving. She continued to perform for over a decade, relying on her other senses and her deep connection with her horses to guide her through each performance.
Sonora's husband, Al Floyd Carter, was the son of the famous horse diving event creator, William "Doc" Carver. Their shared love for the circus world and horses brought them together, and they formed a strong partnership both in and out of the arena. Sonora's sister, Arnette Webster French, also followed in her footsteps and became a well-known horse diver, showcasing the family's deep connection to the world of equestrian entertainment.
Sonora's story has been immortalized in the 1991 biopic "Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken," where she is portrayed by actress Gabrielle Anwar. Her legacy as a pioneer in the world of circus entertainment and as a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity continues to inspire audiences around the world. Sonora Webster Carver will always be remembered as a true trailblazer in the realm of horse diving.