The History of Portable Toilets -

The History of Portable Toilets

Portable toilets allow people to gather and work towards a common goal. Whether that goal is community growth and expansion or relationship development, portable toilets are generally nearby. Despite their humble beginning, modern portable restrooms range from trailers to basic construction units and can even include ceramic countertops and flooring. Throughout history, portable restroom solutions have contributed to the rise and fall of civilizations, including contributions to the pyramids and World War II.

Ancient Egyptian Civilization

2,000 – 500 BC

In 1906, architects discovered a tomb that dates back to the 14^th century BC. This was the tomb of Kha and Merit. Kha was an architect and throughout the building of many pyramids, the need for restrooms did not diminish. In his tomb, a wooden stool with a hole cut in the middle of it was discovered. It is thought that a vase was placed underneath, and the person could relieve themselves no matter their surroundings. This allowed the growth of the pyramids to continue unhindered.

Greek Civilization & The Roman Empire

800 BC – 330 AD

Hinderance was strongly disliked by both the Greek and the Roman people, especially when it came to their relaxation. Analysis of ceramic pots dating back to the 6^th century BC, has found remnants of parasites from human waste. These vases were located at the public baths and are presumed to have been moved to different locations for the use of the citizens. This allowed the people to rest in the knowledge that their restroom needs were cared for in a convenient way.

The Middle Ages

476 – 1500 AD

Chamber pots also demonstrated humanity’s preferences for convenience. Made from multiple different materials, these pots were often kept near the bedroom. Despite their practicality, these pots were not always the most sanitary solution to convenient restrooms since they were generally emptied onto the streets and into open sewers.

During the Britain Tudor Era (1485-1603), the high-ranking office of ‘the groom of the stool’ was installed. This official tended to all the king’s restroom needs, especially the stool. The stool was a portable toilet with a lid, seat, and an earthenware basin. The intimate nature of this job was such that only the most trustworthy of officials could be placed in charge of the ‘royal portable toilet’.

The Industrial Revolution

1760 – 1840 AD

It was during this period that stationary outhouses became more popular. They were often built near or attached to residences and were made of wood and metal. Although this may have seemed more sanitary than the chamber pots, the waste pits for the outhouses were not contained. The waste often seeped through the ground and contaminated the water. This issue was not recognized and fixed until the early 20^th century.

Fun Fact: A family in Maine built a three-story outhouse. It was so well built and convenient that the owner didn’t replace it with a modern toilet until the year 2000 and it was built in the mid-19th century.

World War II

1939 – 1945 AD

The idea of a self-contained portable outhouse was born due to the war effort. The men working to build additional ships for the navy were losing precious time disembarking from the ship they were working on and going to the land for restroom breaks. To avoid this issue and speed production they built enclosed wooden/metal portable units to have on site. These toilets were heavy and large, but they did provide a convenient solution to the issue at hand.

Modern Portable Toilets

After the war, people began to see many opportunities for improvement in the sanitation industry. The portable toilet as we know it originated from George Harding. He invented a fiberglass unit in the 1960s. This rapidly grew and evolved into the modern-day plastic restroom. Harding went on to become the co-founder of the PolyJohn industries and also initiated the rise of luxury restroom trailers.

Conclusion

Modern portable toilet companies have a variety of restrooms rental options that range from basic to luxurious. These different models are united in their purpose of serving as a convenient restroom to all people. Their contributions to history can be greatly appreciated as portable toilets continue to be a staple in all communities in both social and work aspects.

Check out our website or other blog posts for more information on our multiple portable toilet models available for rent.

Call of the Wild Sanitation

September 11, 2024

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