Pope's Pond 2025

In early 1802, a dairyman who delivered dairy products created a small box made of stone or wood. He used straw to cool milk, meat, and butter, marking the known beginnings of cold storage.

The history of the ice business in Milton is a fascinating tale of enterprise and innovation that dates to the mid-19th century. The town of Milton, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene brooks, became the cradle of a flourishing ice industry.

The business of cutting, storing, and delivering ice in Milton was initiated by John Myers around 1853. Before Myers ventured into this business, it was conducted on a limited scale by individuals John Collins, Jonathan Beals, Adolphus Kinsman, and others. These early entrepreneurs recognized the value of ice, particularly during the warmer months when the demand for preserved food and cool beverages soared extending the shelf life of various products and enhancing food safety.

John Myers, a visionary entrepreneur, saw the potential for expansion in the ice business and took decisive steps to capitalize on it. Myers acquired land on Mattapan street (now known as the Blue Hills Parkway), constructed a large pond (now called Pope’s Pond), and erected several buildings to support the growing business. 

These ice-houses served as storage facilities where ice harvested during the winter months could be preserved for use throughout the year. Myers's efforts significantly boosted the availability and reliability of ice supplies in Milton, making it a staple commodity for the local community.

The enterprise was leased to individuals annually and expanded until Mr. Myers' death on February 23, 1878. The business remained in the Myers estate for approximately three years before being sold to  J. Frank Pope.

On the other side of town Jacob Turner was also in the ice business selling ice he harvested from a pond he excavated that would be known as Turner’s Pond. 

In 1884, Pope and Turner combined their businesses to form Pope & Turner. Their company would extract an impressive 6,500 tons of ice annually from Pope's Pond and 4,500 tons from Turner's Pond. They employ twelve workers for six months each year and utilize fifteen horses in their operations.

To store ice, they leverage steam power and enlist the help of one hundred workers at each location, achieving a daily production output of 1,000 tons. During the summer months, their retail operation consumes roughly 25 to 30 tons of ice daily, with about two-thirds of this amount allocated to the Dorchester market. Additionally, they sell 2,000 tons in wholesale.

The ice business, like any other industry, faced its fair share of challenges. Weather fluctuations, inefficient storage methods, and the physical demands of harvesting ice were some of the obstacles that entrepreneurs had to overcome. However, these challenges spurred innovation and led to the development of more efficient techniques and tools for ice harvesting and storage.

As technological advancements emerged, the ice industry in Milton adapted and evolved. The introduction of mechanical ice cutters and improved insulation materials made the harvesting and storing processes more efficient. Additionally, the advent of refrigeration technology in the late 19th and early 20th centuries revolutionized the industry, gradually reducing the reliance on natural ice.

The legacy of the ice business in Milton is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its early entrepreneurs. The industry's growth and success laid the foundation for modern refrigeration and food preservation techniques. 

John Myers and his contemporaries not only provided a valuable service to their community but also contributed to the broader advancements in food safety and storage.

Today, the history of the ice business in Milton is preserved through historical records, museums, and local heritage organizations. These efforts ensure that the contributions of John Myers and other pioneers are remembered and celebrated. The stories of the men and women who worked tirelessly to harvest and deliver ice remain integral parts of Milton's rich historical tapestry.