Incorporating historical lessons about outhouses into the K-12 curriculum may seem like a bizarre idea at first, but these structures offer more than just potty humor. Studying outhouses helps students delve into fascinating societal norms, health implications, and technological innovations that once shaped our country.
Begin by providing background information on outhouses, explaining their history and purpose. They were outdoor toilets, typically wooden and small, found in rural areas before indoor plumbing became widespread. Highlight those outhouses are still prevalent in some parts of the world today. This can help students appreciate modern sanitation developments while developing empathy for others who may not have the same access to basic necessities as they do.
Next, discuss the societal aspects of outhouse use, from the various terms coined to describe them (e.g., privy, backhouse) to the rules surrounding their construction, placement, and etiquette. Delve into how these rules changed depending on the time period and location. For example, during Colonial times in America, living close to an outhouse was considered prestigious since it indicated the family had wealthy connections.
Health practices concerning outhouses offer intriguing perspectives as well. Students can learn about historical sanitation methods such as lime spreading and pit management that aimed to reduce odor and disease potential. Furthermore, drawing connections between outhouse use and sanitation-related diseases of the past will foster a greater understanding of public health’s role in history.
Hands-on activities allow students an opportunity to immerse themselves in historical learning. Here are a few project ideas:
1. Create an art project where students sketch or model what they believe an ideal outhouse would look like based on their research.
2. Encourage students to pretend they are historical architects designing an outhouse for their local community with specific needs if indoor plumbing were not available.
3. Assign small group research projects with students exploring the history of local outhouses – this may involve contacting historical societies or visiting historical sites with preserved outhouses.
Integrating lessons on outhouses into the curriculum can create memorable and engaging learning experiences. These historical structures vividly capture the everyday lives of our ancestors and encourage students to ponder the impact of technology, public health, and societal norms on current practices. The Outhouse Classroom offers an unusual yet practical way to educate our K-12 learners about the past and inspire a broader curiosity for history.
