Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Smoking Policies

[Sharon Villines (sharon]

On 23 Nov 2011, at 12:45 AM, Thomas Lofft wrote:

> So far, no one has proposed a fossil fuel burning power plant either. 

I recently read a book on 19th century living written by someone well aware of 
environmental conditions. The unreality of the BBC's excellent programs is the 
fake view of both indoor and outdoor air. It was totally polluted.

In one account it was noted that the early lamps burning various things also 
created so much soot that women's dresses were coated with it by the end of the 
evening. High ceilings were absolutely necessary for lighting in the evening 
and fireplaces at any time. They collected the smoke.

Candle wicks had to be clipped every few minutes requiring servants standing by 
so people could eat. The air in London was so thick with pollutants that you 
couldn't see people coming toward you unless they were carrying a torch. It was 
like night time.

People took baths only rarely until the early 20th century. And took pride in 
it.

Only a bit off-topic, but something to remember when people start romanticizing 
about recreating the "natural" living conditions of the past.

Sharon
----
Sharon Villines
Takoma Village Cohousing, Washington DC
http://www.takomavillage.org