The Interesting History of Toilets

Creation

Although we use toilets on a regular basis, we often skim over the fine-details related to these sanitation devices. The history of the toilet started in the 2800 B.C. era when many civilizations were putting a focus on cleanliness. Funny enough, the millennium of its creation was called "The Age of Cleanliness."

The early toilet system was intended for outdoor design and use. Many early works showed that toilets were often built right into the outer wall of a building or home.

This outdoor-style of architecture lasted thousands of years and is still used in some rare instances today.

In the birthing years of toilets, the device was only used by affluent families and royalty within a city. The common folk were forced to use the rest room outside in the wilderness rather than being able to enjoy the luxuries that the wealthier families had.

Sophistication

The plumbing system that surrounded the early prototypes incorporated a trough style collection system. The inside of the toilet came equipped with piping that lead into a large collection pit also referred to as 'Cesspits.' In these times, slaves were responsible for emptying and cleaning these pits for reuse by their masters and leaders.

Many political figures and people of power prided themselves on the sanitation systems within their communities. Often, civilizations were judged on how well they could supply sanitation devices within their buildings and architecture.

Modern Implementation

Alexander Cummings is largely responsible for modern day flushing toilets with his work in the Industrial Revolution.

Cummings invented an S-trap(curved inner-piping) toilet that relied on a water flow to push the contents through the pipes and out into a sanitation bin.

Alexander also realized the foul-nature of sanitation and created a water based seal that would prevent the smell from escaping into the area. This style of toilet revolutionized how we would go on to "take care of our business!"

Although there are many advancements in toiletry (budet toilets, etc.) we still rely on good fashioned plumbing and water. The British Empire was one of the first to adopt the modern toilet, and we all followed suit.

The next time you visit the lavatory, you might find yourself surprised at how much history stands behind the device you use on a daily basis. The creation of this device has made our lives much more simple!

If you live in the St. Michael area, and are having toilet troubles, Call B & D Plumbing, Heating & A/C at (763) 497-2290 and find out how you can get your toilet back!