Wednesday, August 4, 2021

'Turnback Tuesday' (on Wednesday) features ice cutters on Housatonic River in Derby


Turnback Tuesday is visiting a "cooler" time in history. This is a photo of men cutting ice on the Housatonic River, which was an early form of refrigeration. The ice cutter was also called a "plow." Ideally, the ice was at least 14 inches thick. 

After harvesting these blocks from the river, the ice was stored in "Ice Houses," then purchased by businesses and the public. 

A perfect example of an ice box is located at the Osborne Estate in Derby. This fabulous photo was a recent donation from Norman Hayden.


Thanks as always to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week! 

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