In Front of Rockefeller Center
Gail Edwin Aguiar
Birdsill Holly. One hundred and thirty-six years ago, this improbably-named gentleman was issued patent #94749 for a device he called a “hydrant,” a name coined from an irregular form of the Greek word for water. Whether it’s called a fire hydrant, a firecock, or a fireplug, Birdsill Holly’s utilitarian invention has become ubiquitous.
The lowly hydrant should be a source of wonder. It is, after all, an amazing manifestation of civic duty. Your town is effectively telling you “We have created an extensive subterranean system of pipes and valves in which we maintain a large volume of water under constant pressure on the off-chance that your house might someday catch fire.” It is an astonishing act of generosity.
So when next you come across a hydrant, lay your hand on the dome, give it a pat of appreciation and whisper your thanks to Birdsill Holly.
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