The history of plumbing needs to start with where the word plumbing originated from. The word plumbing came from the Latin word plumbum which means lead. The word plumbing refers to the pipes and fixtures for the distribution of water and gas, and the disposal of sewage. 

The first sewers were built in Rome between 800 B.C. and 735 B.C., before the first aqueduct was built approximately 500 years earlier. The Cloaca Maxima is one of the largest of the ancient sewers and is still being used. It was designed and constructed to carry off the surface water, and to provide drainage for the entire city. Disposing of sewage has been an issue even since the earliest of times. Disease was being transmitted through water and waste because of ignorance. Science then would play a large part in finding ways to dispose of sewage and waste that would not make people ill. The history of plumbing in America began when New World settlers would copy the Indians methods of discharging  waste and refuse in running water, open fields, shrubs or forests.

They also tossed the garbage and waste out their front doors and windows onto the street where the hogs and scavengers would dispose of the garbage. It was not very sanitary. Thankfully, the United States would set standards in health and safety.  The lead craftsman, blacksmith, tool maker, tin and sheet-iron worker were the first “plumbers”.  In current times a plumber is necessary to unclog drains that are backed up, to repair leaks in pipes, and to construct the pipes for buildings.

They are also skilled to construct different styles of showers, replacement of garbage disposals, etc. A primitive bathroom would be,  a chamber pot placed by the early colonist in with other crockery items and tinware. The term commode was used to disguise its use. The term commode is still used as another name for the bathroom, or toilet.  Latrines, out houses, etc. would eventually evolve to what our bathrooms are today. 

Plumbers need education, training and need to need to gain experience as an apprentice for at least four or five years, before they can be qualified as a “plumber”.  A qualified plumber may be a contractor for a company or he can own his own company. 

by Dave Gorski

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