Unveiling the Outhouse Connection: Lilacs and History

Photo by Rachel Seidner, MLIS

Hey there, fellow history enthusiasts and green-thumb aficionados! Today, I'm diving into a delightful topic that sprouted from a fragrant encounter and led us down a whimsical path of discovery: the fascinating connection between lilac plants and outhouses.

Picture this: A sunny afternoon at the office, Museum Curator Kira Stell and I, surrounded by the sweet scent of lilacs gracing our table. As we savored the aroma, our conversation meandered through tales of local lore, and we stumbled upon a curious anecdote about lilacs and their traditional proximity to outhouses.

For generations, lilac bushes have been strategically planted near outhouses, not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for their remarkable ability to mask less-than-pleasant odors. This age-old practice speaks volumes about the resourcefulness and practicality of our ancestors.

But here's where it gets really intriguing: Did you know that the original lilac bushes at our former Union school museum and research collections are said to have sprouted from cuttings brought by McHenry County settlers from the East Coast? Yes, those ancestors of the lilacs that now grace our museum grounds might just have held a fragrant link to the past, connecting us to the pioneers who carved out a life in this corner of the world. We maintain this fragrant tradition at MCHS, though our outhouse has since relocated inside our museum 😉

MCHS Collection

So, the next time you're out for a stroll, and you catch a whiff of lilacs in the air, take a moment to pause and ponder. You might just be standing on hallowed ground, where an outhouse once stood, quietly marking its place in history. As peculiar as it may sound, outhouse sites are veritable treasure troves of historical artifacts, offering glimpses into the daily lives of those who came before us.

So there you have it, folks! The humble lilac is not just a pretty flower but a fragrant reminder of our rich history and the ingenious ways our ancestors navigated life's little challenges. Until next time, happy exploring!

Want to know more? Visit the museum to see our lilacs and outhouse. You can also submit a research request or make an appointment to see our collection!

Written by: Rachel Seidner, MLIS, MCHS Research Librarian