Pirates, like everyone else, needed to relieve themselves. While life at sea was often harsh and unforgiving, pirates had a few ways to manage their bathroom needs.
The "Head"
The most common place for pirates to go to the bathroom was a designated area called the "head". This was usually located on the ship's stern, often at the back of the poop deck. The "head" was essentially a platform with a hole in it, allowing waste to be discharged directly into the sea.
Other Options
While the "head" was the primary solution, pirates might also have used other methods:
- Buckets and Pails: Pirates might have used buckets or pails to collect waste, which they would then empty overboard.
- The Ship's Rail: In emergencies, pirates might have used the ship's rail to relieve themselves. This was less desirable, as the waste would be visible to others and could attract unwanted attention.
- The Sea: In desperate situations, pirates might have simply used the sea itself. This was risky, as it could lead to disease or attract sharks.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Life on a ship was often unsanitary, and pirates were no exception. The "head" was rarely cleaned, and waste could attract flies and other pests. However, pirates had a few strategies to maintain some level of hygiene:
- Washing: Pirates would wash themselves with seawater or freshwater collected in barrels.
- Soap: Pirates occasionally used soap, which was expensive and therefore a luxury.
- Hair: Pirates often wore their hair long, which helped to absorb sweat and dirt.
The Importance of Privacy
While the "head" was a necessary part of life on a ship, it was not a place for privacy. Pirates often relieved themselves in plain view of their shipmates, which could be embarrassing or even dangerous in the case of an attack.
Conclusion
Pirates had a few different ways to go to the bathroom on a ship, but it was often an unpleasant and unsanitary experience. The "head" was the most common solution, but pirates also used buckets, pails, and even the sea itself. While hygiene was a constant challenge, pirates did their best to stay clean and healthy.
