"Bicentennial Fire Hydrants"

Looking back, it seems like a rather goofy idea that seems right at home in the 1970's.  In an effort to educate citizens of the some of the heros of the Revolutionary war, fire hydrants were painted to resemble these brave fighters in time for the Bicentennial of the nation in 1976.  The hydrants offered a fresh and colorful change to the monochromatic reds and oranges ordinarily seen, and were witnessed with curiosity and interest among small children.

However interesting, these small monuments were not particualarly loved or regarded in the area, and most have long since either been replaced or repainted back into the standardized colors of their siblings.  However, two "bicentennials" have been located amidst these ghost searches so far, while it is assumed that a small handful of others may survive in the outskirts of the city.  Travel back with us to that Groovy year of 1976, and enjoy these (watery) blasts from the past:

FOOTNOTE: Following the attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001, there has been a resurgence in Patriotism in America.  Among the effects of this, at least in North Baltimore, from Loch Raven Boulevard across to Falls Road, is the attirement of Fire Hydrants in patriotic schemes, usually adaptations of the flag.  One can't help but finding this idea intriguing to say the least.


SURVIVORS:
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ETHAN ALLEN LIVES!!!  On Bellemore Road at the Eastern outlet of Winding Way, this hydrant remains in faded, but otherwise good shape.  Faint letters on the base identify Mr Allen. UPDATE: As nice as the current program of repainting hydrants is, unfortunately, it's promoters did not have the decency to leave this old Ethan Allen alone! :(


Tomb of the unknown soldier this is not, but an unknown soldier this indeed is.  Marked with an ignoble OUT OF SERVICE placard, and dripping water down its front, one wonders whether this soldier will again be able to serve when needed!  Soldier stands on the North side of Overhill Road East of Keswick. NOTE - THIS HYDRANT HAS BEEN REPLACED AS OF 3/2001



It's only after close observation does this old Soldier at Oakdale Road and Goodwood Gardens in Roland Park reveal himself.  Perhaps he is geared in camoflage for his battle.  In any event, the faded fatigues fail to identify this hero!



Another ignobly silenced soldier can be found by proceeding South on Laurelton Avenue in Hamilton from Northern Parkway until reaching a dead end.  While not dripping like the late Overhill hydrant, one has to wonder whether this soldier will survive.



Pilgrim Road in Hamilton is home to probably the best condition Bicentennial hydrant in the city, as this proud soldier attests.


NEW - A bit more utilitarian than his more colorful counterparts, Patrick Henry's likeness at the corner of Eastern Parkway and Westfeld Avenue still does lend a commanding presence to the intersection!
 

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