High Pressure Fire Service exhibition test at Pier 50, on West Street and Bethune Street. Throughout 1908 the Department of Water Supply, Gas and Electricity ran a series of tests of its new High Pressure Fire Service system in conjunction with the NYC Fire Department. Between 1904 and 1908 the Department designed and built the NYC High Pressure Fire Service system. Comprised of pumping stations, distribution pipes and high pressure hydrants, the system operated independently of the regular water distribution system and delivered water at pressures up to 300 pounds per inch. ca. 1908.

High Pressure Fire Service test at Pier 50 on West Street and West 12th Street by the Hudson River, looking south. October 22, 1908.