http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a2_382.html

Apparently the crescent moon designated the ladies privy.

-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Hoover [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Thursday, September 29, 2005 12:26 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Crescent moon on privies


I know that several of you have dealt with this question before and have the

answer already.   I was asked what was the significance of the crescent moon

design on privies.   I was given a number of options:

1. It was a symbol denoting Islamic origins

2. It originated in the Civil War in Louisiana

3. The structure doubled as an astronomical observatory
 
4. None of the above

I suspect that the answer is #4.   Can anyone give me an accurate reply?

RLH