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