The Curious Case of the Missing House Number 19
In the charming city of St. John's, Newfoundland, a peculiar tradition has left its mark on the streets. Some houses proudly display their numbers, but you'll notice a curious absence—the number 19 is nowhere to be found on certain roads. This isn't due to a mere oversight; it's a deliberate choice rooted in a rather smelly history.
A Number with a Pungent Past
Believe it or not, the number 19 was once slang for an outdoor toilet in Newfoundland. This association is so strong that some residents of St. John's refused to live in houses bearing this number. Imagine the surprise of Randy Cooper's grandfather when he discovered his new home was to be number 19! He was so appalled that he demanded a change, and the city obliged, altering the address to 21. This isn't an isolated incident; other streets in the area also skip from 17 to 21, a testament to the power of local traditions.
Tracing the Origins
The origins of this unique slang are as intriguing as they are elusive. Philip Hiscock, a professor emeritus of folklore, suggests an unexpected source—the game of golf. According to Hiscock, the term '19th hole' was used for an outhouse on golf courses, and this phrase eventually made its way into the local lexicon. The Newfoundland Golf Club, with its humble nine holes, may have been the birthplace of this slang, which then spread beyond the golfing elite.
What's fascinating is how this slang term not only influenced local language but also reshaped the city's geography. Streets were renumbered, and the once-common phrase 'the shithouse number' became a part of St. John's folklore. It's a testament to the power of language and local culture.
The Evolution of Slang
Slang, by its very nature, is elusive and often undocumented. It evolves within small groups, and by the time it enters the mainstream, its origins are shrouded in mystery. In this case, the term 'number 19' started as a playful joke among golfers but eventually took on a life of its own. It's a reminder that language is a living, breathing entity, constantly adapting and reflecting the culture it's born from.
A Unique Cultural Footprint
This story highlights the unique cultural footprint left by local traditions. It's not just about a missing house number; it's about the values, humor, and history of a community. The reluctance to associate with the number 19 is a fascinating insight into the social norms and taboos of the past. It's these small details that make up the rich tapestry of a city's identity.
As an expert in cultural analysis, I find it intriguing how a simple slang term can have such a lasting impact. It's a reminder that language is a powerful tool, shaping not only how we communicate but also how we perceive and interact with our environment. The story of house number 19 is a delightful anecdote that reveals the depth and complexity of local traditions and their enduring influence.
