Isabella Bird

An American store is generally a very extensive apartment, handsomely decorated, the roof frequently supported on marble pillars. The owner or clerk is seen seated by his goods, absorbed in the morning paper - probably balancing himself on one leg of his chair, with a spittoon by his side.

English Explorer

Paul O'Grady

My primary school teacher once poured a bottle of curdled school milk forcefully down my throat. Then I threw it up all over her suede shoes. I'd rather have drunk from the spittoon in Barney's barber shop.

English Comedian

Harvey V. Fineberg

We don't have spittoons on street corners any more. It's no longer acceptable to spit on the street.

Educator

Spittoons were more common in the past, so they often appear in historical settings, like old Western movies.

Historical Object

Spittoons are rarely used today, but they can be found as antiques or decorations, especially in themed establishments.

Cultural Relic

Talking about spit can be considered rude or unpleasant; spittoons remind people of spitting, which is a socially sensitive topic.