Hugh Drane Ice Company, Henderson Co. TX

The plant for the Hugh Drane Ice Company was located about 2 blocks north of the intersection of Highway 31 and Highway 198 (across the road from the Riddlesperger's gin tank). The 'Ice Company' was an important part of the community during the 1930s and 1940s in Malakoff. Very few families had refrigerators, especially those dwelling in the countryside. Truck delivery routes began here at the plant and delivered ice in all four directions. Every house had a sign with "25" - "50" - "75" - "100" shown in rotation. The number displayed on top denoted the delivery request when placed, so the delivery driver could see it as he drove along the route.

The ice was made from water provided by a deep well located behind the plant. The well structure can be seen on the left of the photo (behind the tree). The ice was made by placing metal containers filled with this very pure water in a brine tank that was chilled by compressed ammonia gas.

Especially during the time that Alton Cartlidge was plant manager, the plant was noted for its beautiful and well-groomed rose garden and canna bed. This bordered the drive and is visible next to the white fence on the picture's right. It was located on the South side of the drive and also along the back of the drive. I would think some May and June bride's flower arrangements, as well as Mother's Day surprises in Malakoff may have come from this rose garden.

This plant not only supplied the local residents' needs, but some ice was sent to Athens, Corsicana, and perhaps beyond to be used in refrigerator train cars. The Cotton Belt rail system connected the Rio Grande Valley to St. Louis and the East Coast at this time. Fresh vegetables and fruits were required to be cooled in transit, and ice had to added along the trip. No doubt some of it was delivered from this plant for that purpose.

The article and picture of the Hugh Drane Ice Plant are courtesy of Mr. Harold Brown.

Reprinted with permission by Britt Thompson

If you have any information on Malakoff history please contact Britt, he is the correspondent for Malakoff News Looking Back Column

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