As we all strive to get back to a simpler time, learn some of the skills known by our forefathers, and learn to do many things differently....we are in a constant search for ways to conserve, to cut back, to do more while using less.
Those that came before us were doing a lot of these things, not out of choice but out of necessity. They made do with what they had and tried to improve the quality of their lives any way they could. Many of our modern conveniences were due in no small part to the small comforts of the times, primitive as they were.
Such was the case with the indoor bath room. Until indoor plumbing was fully accepted, the common outdoor toilet was the order of the day. Be it in rural areas or in most cities...it was often there to be seen. They were so common, no one even noticed them. Although the path to their door was often well worn, and found without much trouble...they were indeed not the most comfortable or pleasant place to spend any time
These necessary little houses where so many spent countless hours through the years, often with a Sears catalog or other appropriate reading material, went by many names...such as Moon House, privvy, library, two seater and the powerful moniker "Thunderbox", my personal favorite!
Recently in San Antonio, there was an art exhibit of decorated Thunderboxes, shown in a glory not known in the times of their common use. Here are just a few of the decorations and dressing up of these lowly "out houses".
I have a feeling that the artist did NOT intend for these little beauties to be used as intended! That's just a guess on my part, but I'm pretty sure that you would meet with some very strong objections if you were to approach them with a purposeful look in your eye!
Anyway, that's all I wanted to show you...and believe me...if you ever see one of these Thunderboxes in my back yard it will NOT be decorated to this extent and most importantly, it WILL be open for business!
Now, let's get a fresh cup of coffee, my friend!
