Ordinary Abundance

Refrigeration Nation, authored by Jonathan Rees, delves into the critical role that refrigeration has played in American life and business practices. This insightful exploration covers the history and evolution of refrigeration technology, beginning with the natural ice industry in 1806, leading to the rise of electric refrigeration systems. Rees discusses innovative methods, from harvesting ice from lakes to the advent of electrically powered appliances, that revolutionized food preservation and transformed everyday living.

The book highlights the technological advancements and entrepreneurial efforts that shaped the refrigeration industry, illustrating how these developments are intertwined with America's changing relationship with the environment. As a well-researched narrative, it serves as both a history of technology and food practices, making it a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the significance of refrigeration in modern society. With approbation from notable reviews, Refrigeration Nation remains an essential read for those focusing on the intersection of technology and economic history