Have you ever wondered about the mysterious holes you often see in the brick walls of front porches? These holes may seem insignificant at first glance, but they actually serve various purposes rooted in architectural history. Let’s uncover the secrets behind these intriguing features!
A Solution for Drainage Issues
One of the primary purposes of these holes is to address drainage issues. During heavy rain, water can accumulate on front porches, leading to potential damage and erosion. The holes provide pathways for rainwater to escape, ensuring that it doesn’t accumulate and cause any harm. It’s fascinating to think that such a small detail can play such a significant role in protecting our homes!
An Evolution from Mail Slots to Modern Mailboxes
In the past, before modern mailboxes became prevalent, these holes also served as mail slots for direct delivery into homes. It was a convenient way for mail to be delivered without the need for an external mailbox. So next time you see one of these holes on a front porch, imagine the letters that were once delivered through them, carrying stories and correspondence from days gone by.
Ventilation and Moisture Control
Another important function of these holes is ventilation. After a heavy rain, front porches can become damp and moist. The holes allow air to circulate, aiding in the drying process and preventing moisture-related problems. So not only do they serve a functional purpose, but they also help maintain a comfortable and dry environment.
Connecting the Past and Present
Beyond their functionality, these holes contribute to the aesthetic appeal of front porches. They create captivating light and shadow effects that add character and charm to our homes. Each hole tells a story, reflecting the changing needs of households over time. They are a tangible reminder of the past and a bridge that connects us to the architectural evolution that has taken place throughout the years.
In conclusion, these mysterious holes in front porch walls may seem insignificant, but they are much more than meets the eye. They embody architectural ingenuity and serve multiple purposes, from drainage and mail delivery to ventilation and aesthetic appeal. Next time you pass by a front porch with these holes, take a moment to appreciate the hidden stories and functions behind them. It’s a reminder of how even the smallest details can have a significant impact.
The Tragic Reason Why One Man Actually Turned Blue Forever
The world’s most famous blue man, Paul Karason, also dubbed Papa Smurf, was born as a fair-skinned, freckled boy with ginger hair. In the 2000s, he became an internet sensation and made many TV appearances, openly talking about his condition. Let’s find out together why Karason turned blue and how he became a cautionary tale.
Paul Karason had a skin condition that made his skin flake, as well as acid reflux and arthritis. Doing his own research in order to improve these ailments, he found out about a solution of silver in water, also known as colloidal silver.
Colloidal silver was widely used as an antibiotic back before penicillin was invented in the 1930s. It was banned in 1999 in over-the-counter medications after scientists found that it can severely damage internal organs.
The late Paul Karason and his wife, Joanne
Karason drank what he believed was a miracle cure for over 10 years. Moreover, he even began to apply a silver preparation directly to his skin; he claimed his acid reflux and arthritis just went away. “I had arthritis in my shoulders so bad I couldn’t pull a T-shirt off. And the next thing I knew, it was just gone,” he shared.
Due to the silver accumulation in his skin, he started to turn blue and suffered from a permanent and rare condition called argyria. Only when Karason met an old friend who asked him, “What have you done to yourself?” did he begin to realize he’d become blue.
Karason claimed his blue skin had many advantages — he never got sunburns or had to wear sunglasses. There were some side effects he did not appreciate, however, such as folks “being less than polite” to him. Moreover, Karason confessed he couldn’t get a job because of employers’ resistance to hiring “people that are blue or that are noticeably different.”
Sadly, Paul Karason passed away in 2013 when he was 62 years old due to heart complications.
Papa Smurf’s story serves as a valuable lesson about the importance of being careful when it comes to at-home remedies. While it’s natural to want to find easy solutions to health problems, it’s important to be aware that such remedies can sometimes pose serious risks. It’s always better to consult a doctor and follow their advice for a safe and effective treatment.
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