At first, I thought this reproduction outhouse was an interesting curiosity.
Outhouses were, after all, one of two bathroom alternatives in pre-plumbing days. (The other option was a chamber pot.)
But when I read the warning at the bottom of the historical notes, I had to laugh!
Where else but Tennessee?
I’m allowed to poke fun because I’m a native!
The outhouse is as much a cultural symbol as the Grand Ole Opry or the tune of Rocky Top.
A 3-Seat Tennessee Outhouse
I saw this outhouse at the historic Grassmere farm inside the Nashville Zoo.
The historic notes on the Croft House outhouse door describe this model as a fancy 3-seater, “useful when several people needed to use the facilities at the same time.”
Really?
I can’t imagine sitting so close to someone else, no matter how badly I needed to use the facilities!
Here’s the part that tickled my funny bone:
“PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A REPRODUCTION OF AN OUTHOUSE. THERE IS A PUBLIC RESTROOM ON THE BACK PORCH OF THE CROFT HOUSE.“
What do you think?
Did they add that last bit out of foresight, or did a curious visitor actually take the “fancy 3-seater” for a test drive?
More Like This…
- Here’s a walking tour of the historic Croft House and Grassmere Farm at the Nashville Zoo.
- Even hillbilly bunnies have to go. Check out this miniature hillbilly shack and outhouse built for rabbits!
- Here’s another classic outhouse in Sutherland, Tennessee.
- A must read: The Official Outhouses Of America FAQ.
- Here are some fun facts and photos of outhouses of the American west.
- Check out this Tennessee Outhouse Trivia, along with hilarious outhouse poems!
I’m a wife, mom of 4, and resident of Brentwood, Tennessee. I love finding fun new things for my family to see and do in Brentwood and the Nashville area!
