Early Ice-Making in New Bremen
Before modern refrigeration, people cut large
blocks of ice (about 50 lbs. each) from local water sources included
ice ponds, the canal and the Grand Lake. The prime time of year
for ice was December and January. The cut ice would then be stored
in buildings with 12 inch thick wall for later sale to hotels,
homes and groceries. By July or August the stored ice would be completely
melted away.
Pictured in Foreground is Mr. Ben Waterman (circa December, 1932).
