The Icehouse
The Icehouse is a historical structure used for storing ice and perishable goods before the advent of modern refrigeration. Typically built near lakes or rivers, it was insulated with straw or sawdust to keep the ice from melting. Ice harvested during winter months would be packed tightly and used throughout the year for food preservation and cooling.
These buildings were common in the 19th and early 20th centuries, serving homes, businesses, and even ice cream manufacturers. As refrigeration technology advanced, the need for icehouses diminished, leading many to fall into disrepair or be repurposed for other uses.