History of Plumbing

The history of plumbing dates back to ancient times when the Romans built a comprehensive sewer system, public latrines, and baths
They used lead pipes with inscriptions to transport water from the Tiber River to their homes for running water, sinks, lavatories and flushing toilets. Aqueducts were also used to transport water from long distances. However, the use of lead pipes led to health problems due to lead poisoning. In medieval times, outhouses and latrines were common but lacked proper sanitation leading to disease outbreaks. As a result, comprehensive sewer systems were developed in the 19th century with the aim of preventing water theft and promoting better sanitation practices.

John 4:14 – But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

However, it was in the late 1800s that galvanized iron piping became commonplace in the United States. Cast iron pipes were also commonly used for water delivery, particularly for water mains. In fact, Philadelphia created a new system using hollowed wooden logs wrapped with steel banding in the 1700s. Aqueducts were used to carry water to public fountains, toilets, and baths. The main plumbing line was installed to collect water from various sources and carried it to the plumbing station. In ancient Rome, hot water was available through installed circulation pipes and water heating units. Palace fountains were also connected through tunnels that passed water from storage tanks.

INTERESTING FACT – Because of technological advancements, there are now whole house water purification system installation companies that have reverse osmosis and softener systems. 

John 7:38 – He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

In 500 BC when basic plumbing structures started to evolve
The Romans carried lead pipes and built water channels to supply their famous baths with water. They also had underground supply lines that distributed water throughout the city, including hot water from wood furnaces. The extensive systems implemented by the Romans allowed for the development of tubs, toilets, and showers which became popular in wealthy households during the Roman Empire. Palace fountains were also connected through tunnels that passed water from storage tanks.

Many different civilizations developed their own plumbing systems. The oldest known plumbing systems were created by the Persians and consisted of underground sewer systems that carried waste away from public baths. The Roman Empire also had a sophisticated plumbing system that included aqueducts, underground sewers, and powered water channels. Lead and marble fixtures were used in baths, which were often filled with water carried by the aqueducts. Bronze piping was also used in some ancient civilizations to carry up to 300 gallons of water per minute. Despite the advancements made in ancient plumbing systems, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that modern indoor plumbing became widespread.

Isaiah 12:3 – Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.

The earliest known plumbing systems originated in Persia around 4000 BC, where they used pipes to provide portable water and for water drainage. Aqueducts were also developed to transport large quantities of water from distant sources. In ancient Rome, public baths were built with intricate piping systems that allowed for ebb and flow of water. They also had pipes channels that facilitated wastewater removal. Lead pipes were commonly used in medieval Europe until the 19th century when they were replaced by safer materials such as iron and copper. Despite the advancements made in ancient plumbing systems, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that modern indoor plumbing became widespread, which included systems for tile wastewater removal as well as potable water delivery through intricate piping systems.

Isaiah 43:2 – When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

Egyptians who were renowned for their advanced irrigation systems, gave us plenty of archeological evidence behind. The Egyptians developed pipe drainage and drainage systems that allowed them to control water and water crops. Their intricate piping system ensured that running water was accessible in their homes, which they used for various purposes including watering their crops. The Egyptians used copper tools, made by skilled smiths, to create the copper pipes which were then used to feed crops from the Nile river. Despite these advancements, it wasn’t until modern indoor plumbing became widespread in the late 19th century that potable water delivery and tile wastewater removal were possible through elaborate piping systems.

Revelation 22:1 – And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.

People made the earliest plumbing pipes out of pipe tubing, baked clay, and even dug wells for their sewer supply systems
In the 16th century, Sir John Harington invented the water closet, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that extensive piping and modern indoor plumbing became widespread. In the Indus Valley, where they used rudimentary pipes made of baked clay, was some of the earliest forms of pipes we have evidence of. Fast forward to the 18th century, when Alexander Cumming, a Scottish inventor designed the first flushing toilet. The invention was so significant that it changed the way we use our bathrooms today. The design included an s-shaped pipe mechanism called an s trap, which prevented sewer gas from entering the toilet bowl. This underground plumbing system was installed in homes and buildings across Europe and America by the 19th century.

Isaiah 49:10 – They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.