Q. Why do we call a backward place a "jerkwater" town?
A. Steam engines needed to refill their boilers from water
towers next to the tracks but some "towns" were so small
that they lacked a water tower. When trains stopped in
those places, the crew had to find a nearby stream or well
and, bucket-brigade style, "jerk" the water to the train.
A. Steam engines needed to refill their boilers from water
towers next to the tracks but some "towns" were so small
that they lacked a water tower. When trains stopped in
those places, the crew had to find a nearby stream or well
and, bucket-brigade style, "jerk" the water to the train.
by Ron Ruth May 28, 2007
Get the jerkwater mug.Related Words
Used to describe a person when they are exhibiting rude, cruel, or manipulative behavior, at your personal expense. May be used in a playful manner.
by Janel April 28, 2006
Get the jerkburger mug.by wriggler February 23, 2005
Get the jerkwater mug.by fuzzyonion June 25, 2016
Get the Jerkburger mug.by Hazard October 23, 2003
Get the jerkwater mug.