Few people think twice when they use the restroom, flushing all debris and waste down into who knows where, but where did these systems originate? Who do we have to thank for our streamlined system? The answers can be found in the pages of history, and can be quite interesting, despite the subject.
When most people think of modern sewer systems they immediately think of the Romans, however the famed Roman society did not invent them. Surprisingly, many experts claim that the first signs of modern water systems can be found as far back as 7-8000 B.C. in Scotland. Remains of troughs and makeshift pipes used to carry water and waste out to nearby water sources have been found in many ancient cities. Furthermore, these initial systems were not even underground, many of the troughs (even in Roman cities) were simply open trenches that were primarily used for storm water runoffs, and were later converted to their later and messier uses. Before these inventions, waste was simply thrown into the street and later cleaned up by street cleaning crews that pushed the debris into the storm drains. It was practices like this that caused the tradition that a man was to walk on the outside of a woman, not to protect her from carriage splashes but from this disgusting habit.
After the invention and use of pipes (or troughs) came the invention we most recognize today: the flushing toilet. Around 3000 B.C. overhead containers were built to hold water that was used to flush wastes into underground cisterns and pipes, a work that was often reserved for servants or slaves. Little do we know how lucky we have it with our automated systems!
Compared to the first inventions, our plumbing and sanitary systems are quite advanced. In addition to toilets and waste water removal, we are also fortunate enough to have waste water treatment. While we take for granted the locations and availability of water fountains, many did not even have access to clean water until the early 1900s when the first faucet designed for drinking water was invented. Until then, people used the same cup to drink from unclean water, causing terrible disease outbreaks and countless other health issues.
Whether or not you realize how far we have come and the luxuries we have access to, we all use the same systems that continue to be improved upon year after year. A quick call to your local plumbing company can solve all your smelly woes and you won't have to think twice about where it goes or how it works, but next time you flush just remember how lucky you have it!
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