Down the gravel path behind the Weaver abode in East Hur is a new, highly functional outhouse, possibly among the finest in Calhoun County.   It is electrified, heated, lighted and even has running water gravitating from a roof tank.   A small library of books and magazines are on the shelves for readers to wile away the time on the one-holer, or they can be amused by the stereo system, karaoke or small screen TV.   There is a weather radio for updates.   The walls are decorated with old calendar prints, photos and newspaper clippings.   There are several amusing toys, including an electronic magpie, which repeats everything it hears.   Tiny replicas of bugs and spiders are glued around the walls to recreate the atmosphere of "an honest outhouse."   For those concerned about safety, a lightening rod protrudes from the roof.   Old WV license plates have been nailed to the outside, a tradition with early outhouses.   The exterior is adorned with horseshoes, a thermometer and informative signs. -- Bob Weaver

Incidentally, Bob publishes The Hur Herald, an online newspaper that serves the town of Hur and surrounding Calhoun County, West Virginia.   For an eviable look at a small town that's not infested with superhighways, fast food joints, and shopping malls visit him and Hur.

Picture copyright: B. Weaver. Used with permission.

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