Pittsburgh toilet

Pittsburgh toilet

Pittsburgh toilet refers to a peculiar and distinctive feature found in older homes, particularly in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, but also in other parts of the United States where homes were built before the widespread adoption of modern plumbing standards. This type of toilet is characterized by its standalone placement in the basement of a house, without any surrounding walls, partitions, or privacy of any kind. Often, it is accompanied by a simple sink, but the lack of a full bathroom setup is what makes the Pittsburgh toilet unique.

History

The origin of the Pittsburgh toilet can be traced back to the early 20th century, a time when steel and coal mining were predominant in Pittsburgh. The design was initially intended for practical and hygienic purposes. Workers would return home covered in soot and grime from the mills and mines. Having a toilet in the basement allowed them to clean up before entering the main living areas of the house, helping to keep the rest of the home clean.

Design and Features

A typical Pittsburgh toilet consists of a white ceramic toilet bowl and sometimes a matching sink. These fixtures are usually located near the floor drain in the basement. The absence of walls or a privacy enclosure around the toilet is the most striking feature. In some houses, homeowners have added partitions or even fully enclosed the area to create a more traditional bathroom setup.

Cultural Significance

The Pittsburgh toilet is more than just a quirky architectural feature; it is a symbol of the city's industrial past and the hardworking nature of its residents. It serves as a reminder of the time when Pittsburgh was a booming industrial hub, and practicality often took precedence over aesthetics in home design.

Preservation and Modern Views

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in preserving these unique toilets as part of the region's cultural heritage. While some homeowners choose to remove or remodel their Pittsburgh toilets, others embrace them as a nostalgic nod to the city's history. Real estate listings in Pittsburgh sometimes even highlight the presence of a Pittsburgh toilet as a selling point, underscoring its iconic status.

See Also

• Plumbing
• Industrial history of the United States
• Architecture of Pittsburgh