What is now as simple as pulling a lever was once a very involved process. Taking out a full pot of waste or using communal city privies was the reality for many people for hundreds of years.
Even the invention of the first flushing toilet did very little to change how people did their business.
It is believed that the original flushing toilet was designed by Sir John Harrington in England in 1592. He was the godson of Queen Elizabeth I and known for having quite the attitude and a somewhat unpopular sense of humor.
Harrington’s early toilet flushed using over 7 gallons of water, according to History.com. The toilet washed any waste into a holding area below that was described as smelling horribly.
This glorified chamber pot known as the “Ajax” never became popular. For hundreds more years no one had access to a flushing toilet.
Toilets Become Popular Across the Pond
In the 18th century, society got closer to having access to flushing toilets. Alexander Cummning created a towl bowl with an s-shaped pipe that could drain waste without letting sewer gas into homes.
Finally, in the 19th century modern-style toilets came into popularity. London, England installed a major sewer system in 1865 and just a few years before the British Royal Family had started having a man named Thomas Crapper install toilets in palaces.
Later, he went on to be the namesake for one of the toilet’s most commonly known nicknames.
Toilets and Sewer Systems in the United States
According to the Smithsonian, flushing toilets became popular in the United States in the 1890s.
Right here in Richmond, there were early strides towards better water and sewer systems. Did you know that Richmond made the first attempt to filter drinking water in the U.S.? The attempt happened in 1832, but unfortunately failed.
According to the City of Richmond, when toilets became popular in the city the wastewater drains were connected to existing storm sewers. There are many parts of the city where stormwater and wastewater still share the same sewers. This combined system will overflow into the James River after big storms. It’s the reason why you won’t find many locals swimming in the river after it rains.
Your Modern Toilet
Not unlike your local sewers, toilet designs remain relatively unchanged. The one in your home does not function very differently from one you’d find a hundred years ago.
With the exception of aesthetics changes and efficiency improvements, toilets work relatively the same.
But despite this tried and true design, issues will still arise. No toilet is immune from breaking or clogging. Whether you have a toilet that’s overflowing or one that won’t flow at all, Mike Wilson Plumbing can help.
Our team of plumbers serves Richmond and Chesterfield, Virginia. We handle residential emergency services any time of the day.
If you’re ready for a totally new toilet, our team also handles partial renovations. Learn more about our residential plumbing services and find what you need.