Edgewood VA Icehouse Photo, Early 20th Century

This vintage photograph features an icehouse located in Edgewood, Nelson County, Virginia. The structure, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which documents significant architectural sites throughout the region. This particular image highlights the traditional icehouses that were crucial for food preservation before the advent of modern refrigeration.

The icehouse served as a facility for harvesting and storing ice during the winter months, enabling communities to keep perishable goods cool in the warmer seasons. This architectural style reflects the utilitarian designs of the era, showcasing how communities adapted to their environment and climate.

Captured in the early to mid-20th century, this photograph stands as a testament to the historical importance of such structures in American rural life. The image provides a glimpse into the past, illustrating both the craftsmanship and the functionality of these essential buildings.

KNOWOLs historic images connect the rich stories and imagery of our past. A statement in any room, each is printed on museum-quality paper using a restored version of the original.