Outhouse
- Apr 5, 2023
- 1 min read
Like many turn-of-the-century outhouses, this privy has a crescent moon on the door. But why?
According to outhouse history, upscale country inns originally offered two outhouses—one for men and one for women. On the men’s door was carved a sun for Sol, a male symbol. On the women’s door was carved a moon for Luna, a female symbol. The carvings functioned as “Ladies” and “Gents” signs.
In the late 1800s, the country inns became less elegant and the men’s outhouse was discontinued because of the proximity of the forests or bushes.
Only the outhouse style with the crescent moon has survived.
Image:
Outhouse with crescent moon design, 2022
the crescent moon symbol on outhouse doors was originally used as a gender marker for women’s restrooms, Melon playground game paired with a sun symbol for men’s restrooms at older country inns. Over time, as separate men’s outhouses disappeared, only the crescent moon design remained, eventually becoming the well-known traditional symbol associated with outhouses in general.
Interesting piece of history! Reading about the crescent moon on the outhouse door actually reminds me of Crossy Road in a fun way—not about dodging traffic, but about how small symbols and cues guide decisions. Just like noticing patterns in the game helps you progress, these carvings helped people navigate the facilities safely and efficiently back in the day