A Hooker, and a Crapper.

As you may know, I, The Chuckmeister, am a history buff.  As in, I like to know what happened yesterday, so as to avoid making the same mistakes twice.  

Like our present Administration in Washington, D. C., continues to do everyday.

Anyway, I like history, and since I'm older than dirt, I'm often called upon to share that knowledge with others.  Here's a couple of subjects for today you might find interesting:

     -  Do you know where the term "Crapper" came from?  You might know it as shorthand for your toilet.  A shorthand word for your toilet most likely not shared in polite company.  Yet, the source for that nickname is very polite; one Sir Thomas Crapper.  He lived and worked in late 19th Century England.  He founded Crapper and Sons.  He produced some nine patents, but none for the flush toilet, interestingly.  He was England's first really famous plumber, having been recognized for his ability to stop leaks with a Knighthood by none other than Queen Elizabeth herself.  

I somehow doubt he'd be happy to have his name attached so pejoratively. 

     -  Then we have Brigadier General "Fighting" Joe "Hooker."  He was General Grant's second in command when the Union Army was trying to defeat the Army of Northern Virginia (the name of the Army of the Confederacy).  Although West Point educated, he wasn't terribly good at being a general.  He WAS very good, the history books tell us, at hosting lavish, days-long Washington, D.C. parties, getting drunk and chasing prostitutes.  So good, in fact, that his name has now become synonymous with the painted ladies that he so diligently pursued.  Ironic, don't you think?

Like our friend Crapper, I doubt the good General would be happy how his name is now being used... 

So, my children, you were perhaps choosing to read this unassuming little blog today so as to catch up on some Gummint excess or get The Chuckmeister's view on some politician's overreach.  But today you'd be getting something extra special; a Chuckmeister history lesson.  

Take your blessings as you receive them, fellow Pilgrims, then go forth and prosper...