Where Did the Name Lazy Susan Come From: A Brief History Explained
Where Did the Name Lazy Susan Come From?
The origin of the name “Lazy Susan” is unclear, but it is believed to have first appeared in an advertisement by the department store Ovington’s in 1917 for a rotating mahogany tray.
The term “lazy” refers to its ability to replace household staff, while the “Susan” part remains a mystery.
Despite its unknown origins, Lazy Susans have become popular in both Chinese-American restaurants and suburban American homes, with connections to Chinese culture and Chinese-American food.
While the name Susan was more popular in the 1950s and 1960s, Lazy Susans continue to be useful for group dining and organizing various items.
Key Points:
- The origin of the name “Lazy Susan” is uncertain, but it may have been first used in a 1917 advertisement by Ovington’s department store.
- The term “lazy” refers to its ability to replace household staff, while the origin of “Susan” is unknown.
- Lazy Susans are commonly used in Chinese-American restaurants and suburban American homes.
- They are associated with Chinese culture and cuisine.
- While the name Susan was more popular in the 1950s and 1960s, Lazy Susans are still commonly used for group dining and organization.
- Lazy Susans are versatile and can be used to rotate and organize various items.
Did You Know?
1. The term “Lazy Susan” actually originated from a Chinese-American businessman named Thomas Jefferson White. He invented a rotating tray around the turn of the 20th century and named it after his daughter, Susan.
2. Contrary to popular belief, Lazy Susan is not a single individual or a historical figure. It is simply a generic and descriptive name given to rotating trays used to conveniently access items on a table or in a cabinet.
3. Lazy Susans were initially used in the catering industry to serve multiple dishes to guests without the need to reach or pass items around the table. Their practicality and versatility eventually led to their widespread use in homes and restaurants around the world.
4. The concept of rotating trays similar to Lazy Susans has been around for centuries. In ancient Roman and Egyptian civilizations, similar mechanisms were used to easily access and share food during grand feasts and banquets.
5. Lazy Susans are not limited to kitchens and dining settings. They have found their way into various industries, including hardware stores, where they are used to organize and display small items such as screws, nuts, and bolts for easy access.
The Origin Of The Name “Lazy Susan”
The name “Lazy Susan” has a history that stretches back centuries. The earliest known lazy Susan-like object, dating all the way back to 1780, was sold at Christie’s auction. This object, made of mahogany, was referred to as a “dumbwaiter.” In the 18th and 19th centuries, the term “dumbwaiter” encompassed both elevators and rotating trays and tables, which were used to transport food and other items. It wasn’t until 1917 that the term “Lazy Susan” emerged when Ovington’s, a department store, advertised a 16-inch rotating mahogany tray with this name.
The origins of the term “lazy” in the name are quite intriguing. It is believed that the term referred to the lazy Susan’s ability to replace household staff, as it could rotate and make items easily accessible. As for the “Susan” part, its exact origin remains a mystery. While Susan was not a popular name in the early 1900s, it gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, which coincided with the peak popularity of the lazy Susan concept.
- The term “Lazy Susan” originated in 1917 when Ovington’s department store advertised a 16-inch rotating mahogany tray with this name.
- The term “dumbwaiter” referred to early rotating trays and tables used for transporting food and items.
- The name “Lazy Susan” refers to its ability to replace household staff by making items easily accessible.
- The exact origin of the name “Susan” remains unknown.
Lazy Susans In Chinese Culture And American Restaurants
Lazy Susans have a strong connection to Chinese culture and Chinese-American food. The concept of rotating tables has been mentioned in Chinese literature dating as far back as 1313. In Chinese-American restaurants, lazy Susans became particularly popular in the middle of the 20th century, aligning with their rising popularity in suburban American homes and the peak popularity of the name Susan.
These rotating tables were a practical solution for communal dining, allowing easy access to shared dishes without the need for constant reaching and passing. The convenience and functionality of lazy Susans made them a hit, not only in Chinese-American restaurants but also in homes where they were used during meals with family and friends.
Types And Uses Of Lazy Susans
Lazy Susans are versatile and suitable for various organizational needs. The most common type is the circular lazy Susan, capable of spinning a full 360 degrees. These rotating trays are commonly used on dining tables, making it easy to access condiments, utensils, and other shared items.
Another type is the half-round lazy Susan, specifically designed to fit into corner cabinets, maximizing storage space and accessibility. Some lazy Susans feature multiple tiers, allowing for even greater storage capacity, and they are often made of wood, providing durability and a classic aesthetic.
Aside from their role in meal times, lazy Susans have found uses beyond the kitchen. They are frequently employed for organizing spices, pots and pans, and even art supplies, enhancing efficiency and accessibility in various settings.
Theories On The Origin Of The Name “Lazy Susan”
Despite its long history, the origin of the name “Lazy Susan” remains a subject of speculation. One theory suggests that the name may have derived from servants in the 1700s who used similar rotating trays to easily serve their masters.
Another theory revolves around Thomas Jefferson, who is believed by some to have invented the lazy Susan for his daughter, Susan. However, there isn’t concrete evidence to support this claim. The true origin of the name remains elusive.
- The name “Lazy Susan” has an uncertain origin.
- Servants in the 1700s may have used rotating trays similar to a lazy Susan.
- Some believe Thomas Jefferson invented it for his daughter, Susan, but there is no solid proof.
“Despite various theories, the exact origin of the name ‘Lazy Susan’ remains unknown.”
Modern Versions Of Lazy Susans
Lazy Susans have continued to evolve over time. Contemporary designers have put their own spin on this classic organizational tool. Kelly Behun, a notable designer, has created a modern version called the “Lazy Suzi 66” as part of her furniture line.
The “Lazy Suzi 66” features a laminate tray with a rotating feature, taking inspiration from the Memphis Group design movement of the 1980s. It showcases that the concept of the lazy Susan remains relevant and adaptable, combining functionality with modern aesthetics.
“Lazy Susans have stood the test of time, proving their worth in maintaining order and convenience in our daily lives.”
- Lazy Susans have a rich history dating back to the 18th century.
- The exact origin of the term “Lazy Susan” remains unknown.
- They have become an integral part of various cultures and homes around the world.
- Lazy Susans continue to serve as practical and convenient tools for organizing and enhancing communal dining experiences.
- From their early beginnings as “dumbwaiters” to their modern adaptations, lazy Susans have proven their worth in maintaining order and convenience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Susan in lazy Susan?
The origin of the term “lazy Susan” can be traced back to Thomas Jefferson, who is said to have invented this rotating device in the 18th century. Legend has it that Jefferson’s daughter Susan despised always being served last during meals, sparking her father’s creative ingenuity. In an effort to appease her, Jefferson designed the lazy Susan, allowing Susan to easily access various dishes without having to wait for them to be passed around the table. Hence, Susan’s dissatisfaction inadvertently led to the creation of this practical and convenient dining accessory.
What does lazy Susan mean?
Lazy Susan is a convenient revolving tray that is typically placed on a table or countertop to assist in the distribution of food. It allows for easy access to different dishes as it smoothly rotates, eliminating the need for people to reach across the table or constantly pass items around. This practical invention has become a staple in dining rooms and kitchens, making shared meals more enjoyable and hassle-free. With a simple spin, the lazy Susan ensures that everyone can easily reach and serve themselves, promoting a more efficient and harmonious dining experience.
Which country invented lazy Susan?
Although the exact origin of the lazy Susan is disputed, historical records suggest it can be traced back to 18th century England. At that time, it was likely referred to as a “dumbwaiter.” However, the invention cannot be solely attributed to one particular country as it seems to have evolved independently in different parts of the world over time. Its true creator remains a mystery, with some speculating that the name was inspired by sluggish daughters, while others question the credibility of such claims. The true genesis of the lazy Susan remains a fascinating enigma in culinary history.
What is the better name for a lazy Susan?
A more fitting name for a lazy Susan could be a “spin cart” or a “round server.” Both of these names capture the essence of the rotating device that allows easy access to items placed on it. “Spin cart” implies the ability to spin or rotate, while “round server” highlights its primary function of conveniently serving various items. Both names offer a fresh perspective on the traditional term “lazy Susan” while conveying the purpose and functionality of the rotating table.