"Mercury Up To 94" : The Heat Wave Of 1918

Coney Island, 1910's

So you think it is hot? Well, in the summer of 1918 it was pretty hot as well. So hot in fact, that people sought refuge in parks and of course, Coney Island. New Yorkers actually spent the night outside. Hotel roof gardens were overflowing with people trying to "get the benefit of the rooftop wind."

The heat wave of 1918 claimed three victims and send many to the hospital. Sadly, 50 year old Carroll Gardener Annie Allan of 94 4th Place, Brooklyn, was one of the victims. She was found dead in her bed.

So you see, dear reader, it was hot back then, too. And just think, in the 1910's, they did not have air-conditioning.


Read More:
New York Times Article July 23, 1918
New York Times Article July 25, 1918