Indoor plumbing was still an innovation in 1860, with most families using commode chairs, chamber pots, or outdoor privies and portable tubs instead of indoor plumbing.

Water for the indoor plumbing was rainwater stored in a cistern at the back of the property. The hot water was created when water from the cistern was heated in a reservoir on the kitchen range and circulated through a connected copper boiler.  Hot water was then drawn off as needed by turning on the faucets.  Hot water would only have been available when the range was fired.  Cold water was fed either directly from the cistern or from the attic storage tank serviced by a hand operated force pump in the courtyard.  The cold water system worked primarily by gravity feed.

When the brass handle was pulled on the patent water closet (i.e., the toilet), the mechanism allowed water to flow into the bowl from the top, as is true of modern toilets. 

Toilet Bowl; ca. 1860; porcelain transferware.

It was not uncommon in the 19th century for sewerage to run directly into the streets.  However, on his floor plan, Gallier specified a “water closet sink” (i.e., cesspool) beneath the courtyard.