AN ANYALITICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE HISTORICAL VALUE OF THE OUTHOUSE

An outhouse, also commonly known as a privy or earth closet, is a small structure, separate from a main building.  After six months of looking at 200 or so outhouse 5 days a week I have come to some interesting observations regarding the typical  Outhouse where I serve.

 

Architectural Design

There appears to be no common design for the outhouse.  It is left to the imagination to create structures that are intriguing and interesting.  Frank Lloyd Wright would not be able to match to any degree the sophistication in the actual interestingness of these structures.  


Building materials vary and are dependent on the look the builder desires.

Corrugated Steel 

Corrugated steel or tin is popular for those seeking a more modern, industrial look.  The structure can be done in 4 large pieces. Some can have 10 or more pieces put together.  Many times the pieces are picked up on the street and have rust and have other debris to give that aged look.
This particular one is very fancy.  It has all brand new corrugated siding.



 

Wood, Cardboard, Plastic Sheeting

Wood structures are also found.  This building material is preferable for the person that wants a rustic, outdoor look.  The wood is reclaimed wood and is pricey (not).  Often builders will combine it with plastic sheeting and or cardboard to achieve that layered look.

This wooden outhouse is particularly interesting.  The architect designed an slanting rectangle.  It assures that the user keeps  his mind on his business as to not fall off the seat.  There are many reasons for this design, all are not known yet.

Cement Blocks

Cement blocks or bricks are the most preferable building product for the outhouse.  Although not nearly as creative and stylish, they have enhanced durability.
There are many brick and block making yards in the area, so block and brick are readily accessible and reasonable priced, (I guess because people buy them and leave them laying around all over.)

Some people have a hankering for artistic style and will add their own little touches. The tires on the top of this outhouse are a recycled product that is durable and has a look of its own.  In a wind storm they could provide beneficial support to the structure.

 

 Ventilation

Appropriate ventilation is always a concern in this type of structure.  For pleasantness of use, there needs to be a particularly innovative ventilation system.  Below are some personally designed systems to improve the comfort of the user. 



This style was built with big gaps at the roof line for ventilation.
The gaps will allow for unpleasant odors to escape.  (But, I doubt it)






Many outhouses have big plastic pipes for ventilation.  I have not tried one yet, so I am unsure if they are adequate or not.  But, most structures have some type of pipe, therefore we will assume it will works






If these solutions fail to work, then just plain take the door off and cut off the top.  I suspect that this methods works best. I have seen a number of "odious outies" built only half way up.

It is all about Location 

As with all real-estate  location is everything.  The placement for the "outies" is most unusual and adds to their charm.



For the exercise minded person, putting the structure on a hillside makes perfect sense.  It allows to improve fitness in more ways than one.


The two below are on a steeper hillside.  This make for great exercise, especially for night jaunts with little lighting.  Falling all over the uneven terrain and rocky pathways proves challenging, event for the most proficient exercise buff.




Interestingly, this house allows full neighbor view from above. It has increased the property value of the higher "outie" estate.

The preferred location of the "outie" seems to be in the front yard right next to the road.

It is a logical placement 
because when you come out of it in the mornings your neighbors will be there and you all can catch up on the local news.  

However, there are those that value more privacy and select a more secluded location.  High on a hill......Or, hidden back in the bushes

                
                          

 

 

The Social Contributions of the Outhouse

Society has been long indebted to the outhouse.  For centuries it has been the place of profound meditation or sparks of creativity. The number of inventions created in the mind of someone visiting the outhouse cannot be numbered.

Outhouses are so significant to social interaction that it would be bad without them.  Notice these four neighbors have placed these outhouse in a corner of their property so they can be near each other.  Imagine the interesting conversations.

Below they share the property line.

Some individuals have simplified the need for social interaction.  Instead of individual "outies", they have 3 or 4 seaters.

All in all, the outhouse is and has been a unique and interesting contribution to society.  To all my friends, may I suggest that when you flush today you have a little prayer of gratitude!

 

Thoughts from beautiful South Africa