2-982-200 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Fire-Plug [fire hydrant], 1858. 'A cry of fire has been raised. The water bailiff has promptly turned on the water, and from one of the fireplugs gushes a mass of water, shaming those puny thin streaks in our public fountains dignified with the name of jets-d'eau. The fire-engine, with its band of helmeted firemen ready for instant action, is already on the spot; and soon another and another, from more distant parts, will be there. Persons are reaching far out of window, anxiously eager to gain some knowledge of the fire in the neighbouring street. In the group in the foreground the man is evidently the spokesman, and is no doubt detailing to the gossips his account of the origin of the fire, seasoned with innuendos and mysterious hints which hold them awestruck; whilst the boys, reckless urchins! are indulging their aquatic tastes with boisterous glee'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858.