Historic Lifestyles of the Cool

Being hot indoors has never been cool. For thousands of years, civilizations have sought refuge from high temperatures. Before modern air conditioning, how people stayed cool was often dictated by status and where they hung their hat at the end of the day.

Nobility and blocks of ice

Back in the 1750s, the Earl of Coventry did not want society guests drinking warm champagne in his sweltering home. Luckily, a pond on the estate froze in winter. Staff broke the ice into blocks and stored them in a partially underground ice house. The ice cooled food and bubbly — refreshing relief from the heat.

Ice houses were not new. Records indicate ice was stored as far back as the Pre-Qin Chinese Dynasty (2100–221 BC), when senior officials were presented with ice as an honor. So the next time you need to feel extra luxurious, throw some ice cubes in a glass.

Commoners and the drinking fountain

Before modern air conditioning, city dwellers had a hard time keeping cool. A drink of clean, refreshing water could provide a temporary break from the heat. In 1859, The Metropolitan Free Drinking Fountain Association was formed to provide free, clean drinking water to the people of London.

Today, Chicagoland homeowners have a far better option: a properly sized, well-maintained air conditioner or heat pump that delivers whole-home comfort without relying on ice houses or public fountains.

Need help with humidity, cooling, or a system checkup in Downers Grove and the western suburbs? Call WeaveAire at (630) 442-9250 or request service online.