Creative Ways of Cooling OffWhen the Heat is On

By Paula Green

We are fortunate in Pittsburgh to enjoy the beauty of all four seasons, though our weather often feels like a rollercoaster. Remember how hot and sweltering it was growing up without air conditioning? We had to find creative ways to escape the heat, from retreating indoors to enjoying cool outdoor activities.

Many older houses were built with high ceilings, operable windows, and layouts that promote air movement. Front porches were commonplace, where folks could sit out in the early mornings and late evenings. On sweltering days, families would retreat to the cool concrete floors of their cellars or sleep in the downstairs living room. Pitching a tent in the yard and sleeping under the stars was another fun idea.

In addition to architectural features, comfort extended to clothing choices during the hottest days. People tended to choose loose, light cotton dresses, thin cotton undershirts, and barefoot children played in their shorts.

Beyond clothing, fans were a great option. A handheld one was a simple way to cool off. Over time, mechanical innovations changed. In 1904, the first mechanical oscillating fan was created. Ceiling fans were marketed for household use by 1910. Self-contained box and window fans became available in the 1930s.

As technology advanced, air conditioning became a reality. In 1902, Willis Carrier invented the first modern electrical air conditioner. Decades later, in 1929, household air conditioning was introduced when Frigidaire debuted a room-cooling system. However, these early units weighed several hundred pounds and were incredibly expensive. Compact, affordable window units appeared on the market in 1947, and central air conditioning eventually became mainstream during the 1960s and 1970s.

Staying cool wasn’t only about technology. For many, lemonade stands were always a special treat, whether you ran one or patronized it. There’s nothing quite like a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade or Kool-Aid on a hot, scorching day.

Alongside refreshing drinks, water activities became another great way to cool off. Folks used to enjoy taking a cool sip of water right from the garden hose. Water balloons also add to the summer excitement. Sprinklers weren’t just used to water the grass; kids spent hours running through them in the family yard.

Building on the popularity of simple backyard water fun, in 1961, Wham-O introduced the Slip N’ Slide. This long, thin plastic sheet is designed for children to slide on when wet, creating a fun, slippery outdoor activity.

Inspired by the success of the Slip N' Slide, Wham-O introduced another water toy in 1962: the Water Wiggle, which quickly became popular. This contraption had a seven-foot-long hose with a water-jet nozzle and a bell-shaped plastic cup with a silly face. When the water was turned on, it would move erratically, spraying water across the lawn. Two children tragically died in 1975 and 1978 when the bell cover came off, leading Wham-O to voluntarily recall the product.

Swimming was another staple of summer cooling. Plastic yard pools were popular. Today, with central air now common, many households have built-in pools, pool memberships, or visit community pools.

No matter how you decide to cool off, be sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and stay hydrated. However you choose, enjoy the beauty of summer!

Sources: www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/5-ways-people-cooled-off-in-the-summer-before-air-conditioning, writerofpop.com/2025/06/11/from-slingshots-to-slip-n-slide-the-legacy-of-wham-o/