Outhouse

Before modern bathrooms existed, outhouses were used at homesteads and were usually located some distance from the house. Most were designed for one individual, although some could accommodate two. Toilet tissue was often a luxury, so substitutes such as catalog pages or newspapers were used. A moon on the door typically meant it should be used by males, while a star signified use by females. Hollyhocks were often planted near the ladies' structure.

Moravia, Iowa · United States