In the days ahead, what is old may very well become new again and ices houses are no exception.  Here’s the forward from the attached .pdf file from 1911, loaded with information about ice houses and their construction.

Sir, I have the honor to transmit herewith a paper entitle “Ice Houses,” prepared by Prof. L.C. Corbett, Horticulturist of this Bureau, and recommend that it be published as a Farmers’ Bulletin. It treats of the advantages of a supply of ice for farm use and gives directions for harvesting ice and constructing houses.

This paper has been prepared in response to numerous inquiries for information on the subject. It is believed that its publication will encourage producers to give more attention to the marketing of perishable products, as well as to provide their tables with home products which cannot be kept without ice.

Very respectfully,

B. T. Galloway
Chief of Bureau