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Washington, D.C., circa 1922. "NO CAPTION (Children, police motorcycles with sidecars, and streetcar in street)." From a series of photos whose subject seems to be traffic safety. Harris & Ewing Collection glass negative. View full size.
This year's Running of the Urchins did not attract the tourist crowds of former times.
The slot between the streetcar rails is for an underground electrical conduit. Like Manhattan NYC, Washington electric streetcars did not use trolley poles and overhead wires. Rather, they picked up current from a bus bar in the underground conduit using a "shoe" that extended down through the slot.
If the street flooded even by a small amount, the conduit would flood also.
On the plus side, vehicles with over-height loads did not have to fear contact with a trolley wire
It looks like those older gentlemen have placed bets on which urchin will survive crossing the street.
Looking at the photo a little closer reveals a baton being exchanged by the 2 boys. The 2 men on the left are cheering them on. The police are providing escort for the boys in much the same way escort is provided runners in the Olympics today. That's my take on it. Great pic!
What a great image! It puts you right there with the action and sense of depth.
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