What is a fire hydrant?

Most people don’t notice them. They go about their day without a thought about how this valuable community asset came to be. Fire hydrants have evolved over the years. Here is their story:

• The “Fire Plug” Era (1600s–1800s): Before dedicated hydrants, cities used hollowed-out log pipes for water transport. When a fire occurred, firefighters (often “bucket brigades”) would locate these wooden mains, dig them up, and bore a hole to access water. After the fire, they plugged the hole with a wooden dowel—the “fire plug”.

• Early Innovations (17th Century): Following the 1666 London fire, cities began replacing wooden pipes and installed permanent, accessible plugs for water. London sill uses a modern version of this system.

• The First Modern Hydrant (1801): Frederick Graff, Sr., chief engineer of the Philadelphia Water Works, is credited with inventing the first pillar fire hydrant. His design was a metal standpipe with a valve.

• Patent Loss (1836): Although invented in the early 1800s, the original patent for the fire hydrant was destroyed in a fire at the U.S. Patent Office in 1836. Ironic!!
• “Wet Barrel” vs. “Dry Barrel” (Mid-1800s): In the mid-19th century, designs evolved.
  • Dry Barrel (Common in cold climates): The valve is underground, preventing the hydrant from freezing.
  • Wet Barrel (Common in warmer climates): The hydrant is always filled with water, allowing for easier, independent control of multiple outlets.

If you wonder why our dry-barrel hydrants in our district do not gush water when knocked off from a car collision, it’s because the valves are are 6 to 10 feet below the surface. (see pic below) There is a shear-collar at ground level. This protects motorists and the water main from severe damage.

If you pay a water bill, the water in the fire hydrant main is on the same system as your domestic water supply. If you are on a well, there is usually not a hydrant near your residence/business. In that case, we bring water tenders with us and invite our neighboring departments to join us.

Questions about your water service can be directed to your supplier. If you live on the north end of our district, contact BPW. If you live in our extreme southern portion of Laketown Township, contact Kalamazoo Lake Sewer & Water. Fillmore Township residents have their own system and can contact the township.