A traditional way to cool off from the New York City summer heat without leaving the neighborhood is to open the nearest fire hydrant and frolic in the spray. This practice, which goes back to the late 1800s, was usually initiated by residents, often children. It has perils: lowered water pressure makes it difficult to fight fires, and the runoff can flood basements. Helen Levitt here captured the bond between a young girl, overwhelmed by the excitement and cold water, and her mother, to whom she comes for comfort.
- By Helen Levitt (American, 1913–2009)
- Dated c. 1942
- Rights: Copyrighted
Terms
Culture
America
Medium
gelatin silver print
Genre
Photograph
Department
Photography
Relations
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