Cutting Ice for the Ice Houses - Part 1

We hope this newsletter finds you well and warm during these chilly January days. It's that time of year when the Amish community here in the Heartland comes together to engage in the age-old tradition of cutting ice for our ice houses. Over the next three weeks, we'll share insights into this fascinating process, highlighting the skills, tools, and community spirit that make it possible.

In part one of our series, we dive into the initial preparations and the critical signs that the ice is ready to be cut. After a period of cold weather, when the ice has thickened to over six inches, the community knows it's time to start planning. Ideally, the ice should be at least eight inches thick for cutting. Last year, we had a narrow window of just one week to cut and store the ice, as temperatures dropped to 30-below for several nights, providing the perfect conditions, but just a few days later, the daytime highs pushed to back up to near 50 degrees.

Preparations begin with sharpening the saw blades and laying tin on the ice house floor. Snow is cleared off the ponds, and the saw rig is prepared, ensuring the blade spins in the correct direction (the ice-cutting blade turns in the opposite direction than when cutting wood) to avoid splashing water. The equipment needed includes a saw rig with a small gasoline motor and a circular blade, ice tongs, a pry bar, ice cleats, and a team of horses with a wagon. A hay elevator, typically used for moving hay to the barn loft, can sometimes also be repurposed to load the ice onto trailers if needed.

The day of cutting involves a well-coordinated team of 8-10 people. Each person has a specific role, from cutting the ice and breaking the blocks apart to floating the blocks to the water's edge and loading them onto the wagon. The team effort is crucial, as everyone works together to ensure the process runs smoothly and efficiently.

In addition to the physical labor, the ice-cutting tradition is deeply rooted in the Amish community's values of cooperation and mutual support. This event is not just about gathering ice; it's a time for families to come together, share stories, and strengthen their bonds. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose is palpable as everyone works towards a common goal.

Stories from Our Amish Basket Weavers

Here are a few happenings the families dedicated to weaving the beautiful baskets featured on AmishBaskets.com have shared with us this week.

The Mast Family

This Winter has been a skater's dream in the community, with ice staying safe and solid longer than usual. Rosa and Phineas have made the most of this Winter wonderland by helping supervise several evenings at their neighbor's pond. This spot is perfect for younger children and older folks who prefer a calm and relaxing skating experience away from the hustle and bustle of the hockey games. When they get chilly, their gracious neighbors invite everyone inside to warm up with board games, fresh oranges, apples, and deersticks. It's a delightful way to spend the Winter evenings, creating memories and enjoying the community spirit.

The Yoder Family

Skating parties have been popping up all over the community, with families taking turns to host these festive events. On Monday, the Yoder family cleared the snow off their pond in preparation for their turn. By Wednesday evening, they had invited the young folks from the community for an exhilarating skating party. Twenty-one players formed three teams of seven, engaging in a lively game of hockey. Each team played for ten minutes before taking a five-minute break to enjoy snacks of meat, crackers, and water prepared by Rebecca. The laughter and camaraderie filled the air, making it an unforgettable evening.

The Gingerich Family

The Gingerich family farm has also been bustling with activity during the evenings this Winter, hosting two informal skating parties on their farm pond this week. One evening, they delighted guests with hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls, while the next evening, they served an assortment of cookies. Elizabeth, with her usual cheer, found herself doing dishes alone several nights as the girls hurried off to the pond with their skates. The girls have been meeting at a neighbor's pond for a more serene skating experience, as the boys have taken over the Gingerich pond with their energetic hockey games. The Gingerich farm has become a recent focal point for Winter fun and fellowship in the community.

"Some may see a hopeless end, but as believers we rejoice in an endless hope."

— Amish Wisdom