Antique ice packs bring a sense of nostalgia for almost everyone, even those whose only experience with one's in the movies.Ice Houses
Cultures are harvested and use ice to keep food fresh since before Roman times. One of the oldest known ice houses are reputed to have been built in Iraq in 1700 BC. Thick chunks of ice falling from the ice formed on lakes and ponds and transported to these structures. Icehouses were generally squat, domed buildings. The foundations were dug deep and the walls were mostly underground. This helped in building insulation residence.
During the winter snow will be coming home ice and used sawdust or straw to keep the huge block of frozen ice harvesting. This method was so effective that the ice was often still frozen the next winter. Perishable food and drinks will remain in the building and the chunks of ice chipped away to create the ice.
As technology has increased the pollution did. The pure, crystalline ice can be collected from the local lake was contaminated with chemicals and other residues. Ice started to build commercially.Using Antique Ice Boxes
Since it was not possible for everyone to have their home ice, the ice box was developed sometime between 1830 and 1840. It was more than a wooden box with an area to keep a block of ice. Over the next few decades, improvements made to the original plan.
The average ice box were made of wood. As time passed these utilitarian devices were beautiful pieces of craftsmanship. There were often sculptures and other decorations added to the basic position.
The walls were hollow and lined with tin or zinc. The walls are then filled with insulation. Some of the materials used to insulate the walls of the antique ice boxes were:
Algae *
* Straw
* Cork
* Sawdust
* Other insulation materials, such as at local level
Near the top of the window, inside, was an area to hold a big block of ice. Some models were a record and others was a wooden tray. Later and more expensive models have a rubber tube that was connected to the base of the ice compartment. This drained the water from the melting of ice in a holding tank or a pan under the ice box. It was the work of the housewife to remember to pour the water panful every day before a puddle formed on the floor.
For a century, the ice man was a daily visitor to many homes. We deliver ice, of course sawdust insulation in each package of ice. This daily activity is met with delight by local children who will take the ice chips from the wagon in the summer.Collecting Vintage Ice Boxes
Today, these vintage ice boxes are in demand by collectors everywhere. Used as bedside tables, closets, and storage in many vintage style kitchens across the country. Bring a touch of old country cooking in the modern world.