What was the typical length of fire hose sections in the 17th century?

The typical length of fire hose sections in the 17th century was indeed 50 feet. This standard length allowed firefighters to effectively manage and maneuver hoses while ensuring a balance between reach and manageability during fire emergencies. A 50-foot section facilitated easier deployment and handling, especially given the equipment and techniques available at that time. This length became widely accepted as it provided sufficient coverage for most urban firefighting scenarios without being overly cumbersome.

Fire hoses longer than this length would have been more difficult to transport, connect, and maneuver in tight urban spaces, which often posed challenges due to buildings and other obstacles. As firefighting techniques and technologies evolved, the lengths of hoses continued to change, but the 50-foot section remained a practical choice for many years.