The Tub King Blog - Tub Talk: Pedestal Tubs

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Traveling Tubs on the Wagon Trail

It was 1867 in a small mining town called Denver, Colorado. With signs of winter fast approaching, the sun set at 4:30 p.m.and didn’t rise again for nearly 15 hours. With the thought of the long, cold hours that lay ahead, there was only one thing on the miners' minds -- whiskey! The hard-drinking miners knew they didn’t have enough liquid gold to make it through the winter, and this made them grow restless.

Determined not to face the harsh mountain weather without it, they hired a group of Irish Teamsters to transport 40 wagon loads of whiskey through the Colorado plains. To ensure its safe arrival, the US Cavalry was commissioned to escort the load.

However, when a crusading group of women from the Temperance movement learned of the shipment, they were furious. They formulated a plan to intercept and destroy the "evil cargo" on its way to Denver. Dressed in their finest Victorian gowns, they packed up their wagons and headed west for the 185-mile journey, singing as they went.

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Knowing it would take at least a month of hard travel through dangerous territory, these ladies of refinement turned their wagons into little mobile homes. They packed every luxury their prairie schooners could hold. There were tables, chairs, linens and silverware, colorful rugs and lamps, even pianos and several bathtubs.

The Temperance ladies were committed to their cause. But they drew the line when it came to traveling without their washtubs. And these were no ordinary tubs. We aren’t just talking galvanized buckets. These traveling tubs were Victorian furniture, replete with intricately decorated modesty covers. All these ladies had to do was slip into the tub while another one poured hot water through an opening at their feet.

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Meanwhile, several other groups became aware of the shipment and decided they, too, wanted a bit of the joy juice. Local Native Americans who were interested in easing the pain of an approaching winter sought to intercept the shipment. To make matters worse, the Irish Teamsters began to grumble and soon decided to strike. Receiving word their precious cargo was in peril, the miners created a posse that headed eastward, ostensibly to recover their wayward shipment. With so many opposing parties looking to get their hands on the whiskey, the wagon train came to a halt … in the middle of nowhere. Inevitably, the women caught up with the whiskey wagon train as it made its way west, and demanded demolition of the alcoholic "mountain dew." (BTW: To learn the fate of the whiskey wagon train, you’ll need to rent the movie, "Hallelujah Trail," made in 1965 starring Burt Lancaster and Lee Remick.)

Early Bathtub History

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But in 1867, it wasn’t only women that enjoyed the luxury of bathing on the trail. It's reported that the Bathtubs that existed during the antebellum period before indoor plumbing came into vogue were large but relatively light containers. They were usually hidden away and only pulled out when needed, perfect for on-the-road washing. The typical mid-19th century bathtub was a product of the tinsmith's craft, commonly made from a shell of sheet copper, or zinc. The use of copper continued into the mid-1900s as a liner for wood-enclosed tubs. Commanders and officers of the US Cavalry also enjoyed some downtime relaxing in traveling tubs.

More commonly, tubs back then were steel-cased. By 1867, tub manufacturers started using cast iron, which had been used for several years for making sinks and toilets. The problem with metal was corrosion. Copper and zinc discolored readily around water and soap, and the seams of sheet metal were hard to keep clean. Iron and steel, of course, rusted eventually, even under the most meticulous coat of paint. Bathtubs made of lead were only found in more progressive homes equipped with early water-heating devices. As running water became more common in the latter 19th century, bathtubs became more prevalent and less portable.

Birth of the Modern Bathtub

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While some members of the US Calvary and the Temperance ladies were enjoying their high society tubs, the miners most often bathed in horse troughs, if at all. Bathing wasn’t considered a necessity by these hard-working men. In fact, personal hygiene was considered something of a nuisance. Over time, as bathing became more fashionable, more tub manufacturers entered the market and began improving designs. Out with the horse trough and in with cast iron bathtubs with porcelain interiors on "Clawfoot" pedestals. These tubs rose to popularity in the 19th century and remain so today.

To combat the corrosion problem, tub makers began successfully marketing porcelain-enameled, cast iron bathtubs, a process that remains broadly the same to this day. Some modern bathtubs are made of acrylic or fiberglass; occasionally, waterproof finished wood. In addition to the advanced materials used in making today’s modern bathtubs, many new and innovative bathtub designs have entered the market.

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One such design is the Walk-in tub that is perfect for seniors. These bathtubs provide a great safety advantage to handicapped persons or those with limited mobility. Not only are these tubs highly functional, there is also a range of hydrotherapeutic options available. Walk-in tubs are perfect for everyday bathing needs, but importantly, they also provide personal safety and independence wrapped in therapeutic luxury.

Tub King's cast iron/porcelain Clawfoot and Pedestal tubs as well as our therapeutic Walk-in Our tubs are made to fit in your bathroom. Or, if you want one for your covered wagon, we can hitch you up with that, too.

In this article, I first gave a brief historical account of the development bathtubs. I highlighted a story made famous by the motion picture, "Hallelujiah Trail," about a skirmish between whisky-thirsty miners and Temperance-minded women of the Old West. It then goes on to talk about elegant cast iron/porcelian Clawfoot and Pedestal tubs as well as safety-minded Walk-in tubs.

If you found this article useful, please share it with your family, friends and co-workers. If you have a comment related to this article, leave it in the Comment section of this blog. Thanks again for visiting with us.

Tub King Customer Walk-in Tub Testimonial

If you’d like to receive a FREE Clawfoot Tub Buyers’ Guide, fill out the form below.

If you’d like to receive a FREE Walk-in Tub Buyers’ Guide, fill out the form below.

Have a question? Feel free to contact me at the number or email listed at the end of this article and my brother, Alan, who heads up Tub King, will personally get back to you. It’s been my pleasure sharing this information with you.

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Alan Knight has many years of experience in the antique and senior bathtub industries. His companies not only provide superior products, they are also multi-award winners, receiving the “Best of Jacksonville Chamber Award” four years running. If you’d like to contact Tub King, call (800) 409-3375 or (800) 843-4231; or send an email to Alan@tubking.com.

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New Tips for Spring Remodeling

By Alan Knight

Photo Credit: woodstockhomes.com

Noted American author, Tad Williams, once said, “Never make your home in a place. Make a home for yourself inside your own head.”

So you have some ideas you’ve been thinking about, and you're finally getting around to doing that remodeling job on your house. Spring is that time of year when most of us, after spending much time during the winter staring at the walls, decide to put some long-thought-about ideas into motion. This means you can now take your renewed positive attitude, motivation and home remodeling skills to good use. However, before tackling a major project, let's look at some ideas you may have overlooked.

Shower Design Power

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We have many customers that come to our showroom looking for remodeling solutions, especially in their bathrooms. One family wanted a very nice bathtub, but also wanted to include a separate, freestanding shower unit. The problem was they couldn't afford both. In the end, they chose to spend a little extra on the tub, a beautiful, deep-soaking Clawfoot tub, and economized on a separate shower with sliding doors. The wife dressed up the drab shower by putting a handsome, fabric shower curtain to hide the sliding doors.

Room for Expansion

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I’ve purchased many houses over the years, and one thing I always do is to make sure the property is expandable. By that I mean are the property’s boundaries and set-backs such that I could add an extra room in the future if I so chose? If the house is on a foundation with “crawl space” it could be rather expensive to expand the floor system. A slab would be a little easier to work with, but don't forget the cost of drawing up plans, pouring more concrete, and more importantly, making sure the addition fits the current footprint design. Many people have created an oddity with their home by randomly adding rooms and extensions that don't follow the original footprint concept. A once-beautiful home can become an “albatross” if over-all design is not taken into consideration. A wise choice would be to hire a professional designer to help with this before you start.

Kitchen Tops Our Discussion

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Let's talk about the kitchen for a moment. As you know, counter tops are a real focal point in any kitchen. The old style of laminate counter tops are being replaced with abandon by most homeowners. That style has never had a reputation for holding up very well over time. A “laminate” is just that, a shallow surface of vinyl or plastic that is laminated over pressed board. The corners are notorious for being easily damaged. The surface will start to lift over time, regardless of the care.

Thank goodness for innovation. Today, granite countertops are the craze. However, even newer are the engineered quartz counter tops. Two words about counter tops: remember resale. Spend a little and it usually pays off in the long run. In one of the houses we built some years ago, we decided on laminate counter tops to make sure we stayed within our budget. We took good care of them over the years and they still looked good after ten years of living there. But, when we decided to sell, and before we put the house on the market, we spent a little money and replaced them with granite. It was a wise decision. The house sold quickly and the new homeowners could only rave about how beautiful the new counter tops were.

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Another thing about kitchen remodeling, unless you’re a professional cook or money is no object, don't buy an expensive commercial-style range and fridge. There are many mid-priced, great looking appliances out there. Appliances can be plenty big for your needs, so start with what you can afford. When I was growing up in the 1960s, we always had the same Frigidaire refrigerator. It was more like an old-time icebox. The inside was about half the size of modern, regular size refrigerators, with a place for two ice trays in the top. There was no freezer portion to speak of and it was about two feet shorter than today's versions. So today, be practical. You can always move up to something larger and nicer later. Save your money for custom cabinets and countertops.

There is a trend now to make the kitchen and bathroom huge, but they needn't be — after all, they're also the most expensive rooms to build. Opt for functionality over size. A nice touch in a shared bathroom is a separate room for the toilet. It can be relatively small, but include a window to provide light and a feeling of connecting with the outdoors.

Curtains Up

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Choose shower curtains over custom shower doors. Glass doors cost about $1,500, and they require a good deal of maintenance. Soap film build-up is one problem, requiring the need to squeegee them every time you take a shower. On the positive side, great-looking fabric shower curtains are very affordable, plus they add color and design to the shower area. And, if you get tired of the curtain color or design, you can always change it for little money.

Here is another tip for the bathroom: Buy a good toilet ― the new ones are quiet and use less water. Most showrooms don't have working models, so be sure to check the reviews. Dual-flush models are a good option.

WW2: Walls 'n' Windows

Photo Credit: capitalcityexteriors.net

Throughout the house, keep the windows the same size, if possible. That said, you can also make a spectacular change with really big windows or French doors. Increasing natural light is always a good investment. If you have single glass windows ― even if they're in decent shape ― it may be worth replacing them with insulated windows, which will save money on heating and cooling and also help reduce noise. Also, insulate all exterior walls and ceilings. If you open any internal walls, put in insulation, particularly around bedrooms and bathrooms. It's cheap and it helps reduce sound.

Nuances Make a Difference

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Small areas to consider are door hardware and light fixtures. Many homes have the typical cream-colored light and receptacle plates. By simply upgrading to something as simple as pewter light fixtures will speak volumes about quality and elegance. Light fixtures in old houses are normally ugly, discolored and out of date.

Bedrooms nowadays are fitted with ceiling fans, which come with their own light package. It’s easy to catch a sale on ceiling fans. They sometimes run as low as $59or $69. If you’re ever considering a future resale, this is invaluable. And don't forget the porch, especially a screened-in porch. A ceiling fan that is rated for outdoor use can turn the porch into a key gathering spot.

Never underestimate the transforming power of color. Paint offers immediate gratification. Even the good stuff is relatively inexpensive, and a careful amateur can do a good job. Hate the look of your house? Try a fresh coat of new paint first.

These are just a few suggestions for keeping your home beautiful and functional. “There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort,” wrote English novelist, Jane Austen, in the 18th century. Her wise words ring true even today. Make your home a place of leisure that you can be proud to show off.

In this article, I discussed some useful ideas for spring remodeling such as adding a cast iron/porcelain Clawfoot tub, upgrading kitchen countertops, adding new ceiling fans, replacing electric plates with pewter, repainting rooms, and myriad other suggestions.

If you’d like some suggestions and professional advice about what type of bathing solution would work for your bathroom remodeling project, whether it’s a Clawfoot or Pedestal tub, a Walk-in tub or a Safety Suite Shower, Tub King’s experts are here to help.

If you found this article useful, please share it with your family, friends and co-workers. If you have a comment related to this article, leave it in the Comment section of this blog.

Thanks again for visiting with us.

Testimonial for Tub King's Pedestal Tub

Have a question? Feel free to contact me at the number or email listed at the end of this article and I’ll personally get back to you.

If you’d like to receive a FREE Walk-In Tub Buyers’ Guide, click here.

If you’d like to receive a FREE Clawfoot Tub Buyers’ Guide, click here.

It's Remodeling Season. Click Here for Lowest Prices Ever & Free Shipping on Cast Iron Tubs.

Alan Knight is the owner of Tub King, Inc., and SeniorBathtub.com in Jacksonville, Florida. He has many years of experience in the antique and senior bathtub industries. His companies not only provide superior products, they are also award winners, receiving the “Best of Jacksonville Chamber Award” four years running. To contact Tub King directly, call (800)843-4231 or email alan@tubking.com.

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Decorating the Bathroom in Your Log Cabin Home

By Alan Knight

Photo Credit: pinterest.com

Today there are tens of thousands of log cabins and log homes in the United States alone. Additionally, here are many more log home lovers who are considering building their dream home based on this revered material and design structure. There are about 400 companies in the U.S. and Canada vying for your business, ranging from small mom-and-pop shops to large-scale, multi-state operations

History of Log Cabins

For those who’ve never researched or have been introduced to it before, the history of log home building is fascinating.

In some of the earliest writings, construction of abodes and structures using logs was described by Roman architect Vitruvius Pollio as laying logs horizontally over top of each other and filling in the gaps with “chips and mud.” Earlier precursors to the log cabin of olden time construction has its roots in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. Although their exact origin is uncertain, the first log structures were probably built in Northern Europe in the Bronze Age (about 3500 BC). Even before Europeans began to settle in North America, they had a long tradition of using logs for houses, barns, and other outbuildings in the Scandinavian countries as well as Germany, Northern Russia, and Ukraine.

According to noted historian C. Weslager, the Finns had a “close attunement” with forests. He states: "By stacking tree trunks on top of one another and overlapping the logs at the corners, people made the ‘log cabin.’ They developed interlocking corners by notching the logs at the ends, resulting in strong structures that were easier to make weather-tight by inserting moss or other soft material into the joints. As the original coniferous forest extended over the coldest parts of the world, there was a prime need to keep these houses warm. The insulating properties of the solid wood were a great advantage over a timber frame construction covered with animal skins, felt, boards or shingles. Over the decades, increasingly complex joints were developed to ensure more weather tight joints between the logs, but the profiles were still largely based on the round log.”

Back to the Present

Though log home construction features some classic, “Daniel Boone” and “Davey Crockett-type” models as often seen on TV and in motion pictures, the log homes of today can be quite different than their earlier American counterparts. Today's log homes often feature innovative designs that, unlike their smaller predecessors, feel modern, open, and upscale. Many contemporary builders include large windows with outstanding views of the outdoor landscape, cathedral ceilings for a light and airy feel, and modern kitchens that are perfect for entertaining the scores of guests who always flock to any cozy log home.

Photo Credit: pinterest.com

Many residents or landlords of these homey dwellings today decorate their homes with stylish, contemporary furnishings and accents. Although the outside looks rustic, the inside looks much like any other home in the 21st century. However, there are still various elements that are commonly maintained in many of the current log homes, such as solid wood construction, not just in the logs, but even the furniture. Exposed solid wood beams that stretch across the expanse of the vaulted ceiling are common. Bedrooms enjoy exposed wood, or box-and-tray ceilings, giving each bedroom a more spacious feeling. Many tables are made of solid oak, hickory or cedar. Even chairs have the touch of the outdoors, with impressive carvings. Wall hangings of antlers and animal skins are not uncommon.

The Rub on Bathtubs

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In the younger years of our own country, if a log cabin had an indoor bathroom (most didn't), it would be very small. Inside the small bathroom, there would be a basin for washing, possibly a hand-pump, and a bathtub. Water would be heated on a wood stove and brought in for the tub. The bathtub would be made of wood or metal (zinc was popular), or later, porcelain and cast iron. The tub would typically be about 54 inches long, which is small by today’s standards.

Today's log homes’ bathrooms are usually enormous by comparison. An abundance of ceramic tile and stone tile line the floors and walls. The indoor toilet is oftentimes hidden in its own private room, allowing the separate area containing the sink and bathtub to make a statement of classic elegance. Today, there are many refinished (restored) antique Clawfoot tubs in log cabins, but something has changed in the market. No longer do you have to go out in search of an old porcelain tub that has been discarded, with all the problems of chips, broken porcelain, scratches, and fading porcelain. Over the last several years, many American companies (such as Tub King, Inc. of Jacksonville, Florida) have begun to import impressive, newly cast porcelain tubs from foundries all over the world. In addition to being built using time-honored materials with the latest technologies and equipment, they come in many sizes, designs and colors. The old Roll Top rim traditional tubs have given way to many handsome, and popular styles:

Photo Credit: homeaway.com

The Slipper Tub with its high, arch back has become the most popular choice for log home lovers. Shaped similar to Cinderella’s slipper from the Disney movie, it offers a sexy look with fine lines and smooth edges. The legs come in various finishes such as chrome, brushed nickel, white, and oil-rubbed bronze.

The Dual-ended Tub has a gentle slope on each end of the tub for perfect balance and symmetry. The faucet and drain are located in the center of the tub, which allows for two bathers at once in the larger 68- or 75-inch versions.

The Double Slipper has the high back on both ends of the tub and is designed for the home that is looking for the very best in glamour and elegance. Since the modern log homes have opted for larger bathroom space, this tub will fit in almost any bathroom.

And for someone who really wants to display their bathtub, the Pedestal Tub is the ultimate. The tub, regardless of size, sits on a cast iron/porecelain skirt or base, instead of clawfoot-sculpted legs that actually place it on a pedestal. It is ideal for the homeowner that wants to feature their tub as a highlight of their home.

Victorian Pedestal sinks are also popular with the more modern log home designs, taking advantage of the precious space in even the smallest bathrooms.

Photo Credit: pinterest.com

Log homes may have changed in some aspects over the years, and the new improvements are certainly welcome. Designing your log home’s bathroom(s) to show off your beautiful, porcelain and cast iron bathtub makes for great décor as well as ensuring many wonderfully relaxing moments in your own, private provincial palace.

In this article, I shared information about the historic and contemporary build/design features of log homes, and also highlighted the various types of porcelain/cast iron tubs that have frequently complement their bathrooms. I pointed out that various types of porcelain/cast iron tubs are available today, and that will add a rustic, and memorable bathing experience.

Customer Testimonial for Double Slipper Pedestal Tub

If you have a comment, please type it in the Comments section below. Of course, I encourage you to share this article with your family, friends, and colleagues.

If you'd like to receive a FREE Clawfoot Tub Buyers' Guide, simply fill out the form below.

Have a question? Feel free to contact me at the number or email listed below and I’ll personally get back to you. Thanks for reading; it’s been my pleasure to share this information with you.

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