A Dutch Wife
Also known as a Hottie or, to most of us, a Hot Water Bottle. Originally made from metal, ceramic, glass or even wood, early hot water bottles actually contained the coals from whatever fire was had earlier. Now that the weather is finally getting colder (already had a hard frost upstate!!), I get a little peevish about slipping into an icy bed. I want my nose to remain cool, but I prefer warmth under the covers. My friend Jody swears by her hot water bottle. In fact, she says she’s got two on hand for chillier nights. All the pics are from Ebay.
Wednesday 10.17.12 at 6:04 pm
Thom and I were staying in a guesthouse in Coimbra, Portugal during December about a million years ago and when we returned from a late night out, something had been shifted in the room so we could tell that someone had been in there. I was OUTRAGED, but since we couldn’t find anything missing and didn’t have anywhere else to stay, we decided to let it wait until morning. When we got into bed, still muttering about the violation of privacy, we realized that the host had left hot water bottles tucked into the bottom of the bed. From sputtering outrage to sheeeeeeer delight in 2 seconds.
Wednesday 10.17.12 at 11:45 pm
My mother always loved a good hot-water bottle. They’re also great for easing stomach cramps… I’ve got a nice emerald green one from Pearl River Mart. Bought it for a song, but it now resides in a soft, wooly cover acquired at a Cath Kidston sample sale in NYC aeons ago. The perfect frigid weather companion.
Saturday 02.09.13 at 11:33 am
Some very interesting photos, but I’d love to know why a hot water bottle is known as a “Dutch Wife”. I’ve used hot water bottles all my life, but never heard this expression used before. Any ideas?