A correction (before others do it). Thomas Crapper, although Sanitary Engineer to a number of Royals, was never knighted. Therefore he does not seem to rate a "Sir". Except in my book.
Some clarifications:
Although Thomas did hold several patents in plumbing, the critical patent for the operation of the toilet was obtained by an associate. Crapper bought the rights and used the technique in his product.
For over 40 years (1861-1904), his firm did make and sell some of the most unbelievably ornate specimens of the porcelain device you might ever see, however. He died in 1910 and the firm that bore his name continued operations until 1966.
Whether "crap" is a -- er -- back formation on his name, or derived from the Dutch (yes, blame it on the Dutch, wouldya?) is a bone of contention. I think it may be something of both.
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Date: 2003-11-14 09:50 am (UTC)Some clarifications:
Although Thomas did hold several patents in plumbing, the critical patent for the operation of the toilet was obtained by an associate. Crapper bought the rights and used the technique in his product.
For over 40 years (1861-1904), his firm did make and sell some of the most unbelievably ornate specimens of the porcelain device you might ever see, however. He died in 1910 and the firm that bore his name continued operations until 1966.
Whether "crap" is a -- er -- back formation on his name, or derived from the Dutch (yes, blame it on the Dutch, wouldya?) is a bone of contention. I think it may be something of both.