It doesn't look operational but who knows. I have a full view of the park on the PLG side and about once a year I see a "forest fire" and call it in. The fire department shows up dutifully and puts it out.
I never did think about where they get the water from!
I've always wondered that myself, the trees don't look too old, maybe there used to be buildings nearby?
Did you happen upon the creepy cemetery nearby there too?
The hyrant may have actually once serviced a structure. The intitial Viele plan of 1861 did not include this part of what is now the Park. Consequently, this part of the park was originally platted and some structures were erected. The Civil War brought a temporary halt to development of the Park and, when planning resumed in 1866, it was decided to engage Olmstead & Vaux and enlarge the Park by including all of the land up to 9th Ave (PPW) and 15th Street.
How bizarre! It would be interesting if this predates the current park, but surely this hydrant isn't THAT old? I suspect it's for fighting brush fires. Just a guess.
Or crack pipe and condom fires? Prospect park has by far the best trash around - always a combo of condoms (most not used), little baggies, vials, silverware, and clothing.
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