We Were Not the First Crapper :(

Thomas Crapper (baptised 28 September 1836 - 27 January 1910) was a plumber who founded Thomas Crapper & Co. Ltd. in London. Contrary to widespread misconceptions, Crapper did not invent the toilet, nor is the word crap derived from his name. He did, however, do much to increase the popularity of the toilet, and did develop some important related inventions, such as the ballcock. He was noted for the quality of his products and received several Royal Warrants. (The flushing toilet was invented by Sir John Harrington in 1596. Joseph Bramah of Yorkshire patented the first practical W.C. in England in 1778. Edward Jennings in 1852 also took out a patent for the flush-out toilet.[ The word crap actually derives from Dutch (krappe), and first came into use centuries before Crapper was born.) The manhole covers with Crapper's company's name on them in Westminster Abbey are now a minor tourist attraction.