But these fixtures had another important function—one rooted in the challenges of early urban plumbing.
Before modern sewer infrastructure was fully developed, many cities dealt with frequent drainage issues and occasional backups. When these occurred, water and waste could reenter homes through the plumbing system. Because the basement toilet was often the lowest point in the house’s plumbing, it acted as a kind of relief outlet. If there was a sewer backup, the water would typically exit through this basement fixture rather than causing damage in the more lived-in spaces upstairs.
According to the Calgary Real Estate Board, these toilets were usually installed directly above the main sewer line entering the home. That placement wasn’t a coincidence—it helped reduce the impact of plumbing issues, offering a simple, cost-effective solution for a real problem of the time. Cleanup in an unfinished basement was far easier than repairing damage to finished bathrooms.
So while it may look odd to modern eyes, the basement toilet served a thoughtful dual purpose: it was a practical amenity for laborers returning from work and a functional safeguard against plumbing failures.
Today, most of these so-called “Pittsburgh potties” are no longer in use. Some have been removed, while others remain as quirky reminders of a home’s history. A few have even been incorporated into full bathroom renovations.
If you ever find yourself in the basement of an older home and spot a lone toilet in an unexpected place, now you’ll know—it’s not just a relic. It’s a small piece of architectural history, one that reflects both the hardworking spirit of past generations and the resourcefulness of early urban living.
