Well, America’s Birthday must be getting close. It’s easy to tell at our house — several days before and several days after the 4th, we are treated to the sight of a Porta Potty when we step out our front door. There is always a big 4th of July party and of course a porta potty has to be placed prominently out front so all of us can enjoy the view… adds a bit of class to the neighborhood.
So since this is a July 4th tradition, I thought it’d be appropriate to focus on the porta potty rather than fireworks, patriotism, freedom, picnics or things like that.
You’d think there would be a ton of information available on a subject like this, but amazingly the facts are pretty muddled. It appears that the porta potty, or at least the concept of the porta potty started on the docks… workers had to make quite a trek to use the “facilities” and these trips impacted the work schedules. Some sort of a “portable” arrangement, usually made of wood was implemented. Eventually the concept was expanded and when fiber glass came along, the contraption became “truly portable.” None of this was patented until 1962 when a patent was issued to George Harding.
While we’re on the subject of toilets, I’ve always heard that Thomas Crapper invented the (flush) toilet. That’s not true, but it makes for a good story. Crapper did hold several patents related to plumbing products, but the one he’s most famous for wasn’t invented by him. The “Silent Valveless Water Waste Preventer” was issued British Patent 4990 in 1898 to — not Thomas Crapper — but a Mr. Albert Giblin.
So as the 4th approaches, think of us, or envy us, having a front row seat for that great American symbol — the Porta Potty.
Have a safe and fun 4th!!
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