[dropcap]M[/dropcap]y third great grandfather was Carl “Charles” Christian “C.C.” Bier. He was a German immigrant to America. C.C. was an inventor, a dreamer. I have a few stories about him. I am going to share one thing that I have been intrigued by for a very long time. He had a patent for more than one thing but my favorite is the Portable Water-Closet!
First thing first it is not a porta potty. It is not portable in its entirety. The portable part is the basin. It can be removed from the water-closet for easier cleaning. It would be dry when you removed it and was designed allowing you to reach those tough spots when you took out. Disgusting and extremely practical.
It was a way to prevent using more water than needed. Pipes freezing and busting would be less of an issue. Water conservation and pipe protection while also eliminating the need to manually flush in the manner of other toilets of the time. I am in awe and want to share his work.
Here is a copy of his patent
When looking at the diagrams he made and reading the patent I am amazed at how forward-thinking he was. My husband Tom and I agree it may have been slightly overcomplicated. At the same time, I think it makes perfect sense and I am very proud of him.
Here is a copy of the diagram
Nothing came of his inventions. I admire that he was willing to follow his ideas and dreams, no matter where they would or would not take him. It took him on the trip of a lifetime, it brought him to Ameria and that was enough.