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In my meanderings across New England to look at old barns, I often come across unexpected treasures. Antique outhouses fit that category. While there isn’t much market for a renovated timber frame outhouse or modernized backyard latrine, these outhouses were a basic necessity for everyone in the past!
Once while looking at an historic barn in Wells, VT, I came across this grand specimen; perfect for the whole family to enjoy together.
Baby bear, Mama bear, Papa bear
Since I couldn’t very well take the commodes back home with me, I couldn’t resist taking a snap shot. This particular backyard bathroom stood approximately 100 feet from the house. Can you imagine how many clothes you’d have to put on in the winter to head out to the throne room?
Below is an outhouse that came from Pawlet, Vermont and was built around 1900. It stood out back behind another old timber frame barn I came to evaluate. This was one well-appointed little stall. It even came with corn cobs to use in a pinch. And do they ever pinch!
Exterior view of a fine looking Vermont wooden outhouse
Interior view of Pawlet outhouse
Below is a backyard beauty inspired by some of the “one holers” I’ve happened upon in my barn hunting. One of our daughters built it to accompany a timber frame cabin she constructed in our back field, with just a bit of help from ol’ Dad.
I like how she added a special feminine touch.
And now, while we’re on the topic, here’s a poem to ponder – “Passing of the Back-House,” by James Whitcomb Riley:
(You can click on the picture to enlarge the text, or go to the link).
If you are looking for a fine wooden outhouse (or regular timber frame house) made from the finest of Vermont restored wood, we can be your crew! Give me a call at 802.774.8972 or email Luke@greenmountaintimberframes.com.
A Blog about Old Barns ~ from Green Mountain Timber Frames 
Thanks! That was great! There is a 1790’s farmhouse down the road from me here in Middlebury that had an outhouse with a ‘tray’ (? don’t really know what to call it). My husband said they would hitch that tray up to a horse and pull it out in the fields!! Have you ever heard of that?
Janice,
Sounds like we have more research to do concerning where the “contents” of the outhouse got dealt with. Seems the tray is one solution. I’m sure all in the household were relieved when indoor plumbing was created………………
Thanks for commenting.
Dan
The three seater , What a way to bring a family together, I think if we all did this, the divorce rate would go down.