Cutting Ice for the Ice Houses - Part 3

As we wrap up our series on the Amish tradition of cutting ice for the ice houses, we'll explore the final steps of storing the ice and the innovative methods some families are testing this year.

Once the ice blocks are transported to the ice house, they are carefully stacked as tightly as possible to reduce air space. Some families choose to pack sawdust around the ice for added insulation, although a well-insulated ice house usually doesn't require it. The blocks are offset to create a stable structure, ensuring the ice lasts well into the warmer months. The process is not without its risks. Handling heavy ice blocks can lead to injuries, so wearing ice cleats and heavy gloves is a must for safety. Despite these challenges, the community's cooperation and teamwork make the task manageable and even enjoyable.

The small window of opportunity to cut ice last year has led some families to test alternative methods of filling their ice houses. For example, the Gingerich family is using plastic tubs filled with water that they freeze and then empty into the ice house. This method reduces the need for large-scale cutting and hauling, making the process more efficient. Similarly, the Yoder family built a wooden frame lined with plastic, filling it with water and cutting it into blocks once frozen. These innovative approaches showcase the Amish community's resourcefulness and adaptability.

Additionally, the experimentation with alternative methods this year highlights the Amish community's willingness to adapt and find practical solutions to challenges. These innovative approaches ensure that their essential ice supply is maintained even when nature doesn't cooperate. It's a testament to their ingenuity and determination to uphold their way of life while embracing new ideas when necessary.

Even with these new methods, the tradition of cutting and storing ice remains a cherished practice. It symbolizes the community's resilience and dedication to preserving their heritage. The process of cutting ice not only provides essential resources but also brings the community together, reinforcing bonds and fostering a sense of shared purpose.

Inside a typical Amish ice house... The ice houses are free-standing buildings measuring approximately 10' by 14' and about 9' tall, with insulated doors on each end. The ice houses are usually located about 20' to 50' away from the house.

The ice is stacked inside the ice house using the back door (shown in the picture). The ice houses are packed solid with ice, leaving about an 18" deep by 4-foot wide open area that runs from the floor to the ceiling around the front door. This open area (sometimes referred to as the "fridge" area) is accessed by using the insulated door on the front of the ice house. This open area is where the Amish families keep their perishable items.

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

With the forecast hinting at possible icy roads on Wednesday, the Mast family arranged for an English driver to pick up their scholars and take them to school. The family waited anxiously as the driver was delayed due to a flat tire while helping another Amish gentleman. Fortunately, he changed the tire for her, and they arrived at school just as the bell rang. On the return trip, they learned that the driver had yet another flat tire upon reaching home, which her husband had to change. Hopefully, there will be no more rogue nails along the road!

The Yoder Family

Exciting news is brewing in the Yoder family! With the bishop officially "publishing" the wedding today, we can now share this joyful update. A few weeks ago, the couple visited the bishop to express their desire to marry. After confirming no other couples had chosen the same date, the wedding was set for March. This afternoon, the family will begin making wedding plans, selecting helpers and cooks, and handwriting their invitations. The air is filled with anticipation as they embark on this joyous journey, and we are thrilled to share in their happiness.

The Gingerich Family

Friday was a special day for the girls of the Gingerich household. While the scholars were at school, the rest of the girls attended a quilting event at a neighbor's home. With two quilts in frames, they completed one by noon and continued working on the other. This marked the fourth day of quilting at their neighbor's home, with a great turnout each day. They enjoyed a potluck lunch featuring meatloaf, macaroni, deviled eggs, and salad, followed by homemade yogurt, ding-a-lings, cinnamon rolls, and coffee for dessert. One quilt will be gifted to their neighbor's daughter, and the other is planned to be auctioned off at the school fundraiser this summer.

"A house is made of walls and beams; a home is made of love and dreams."

— Amish Wisdom