The curious story of the first ice factory in Cuba

Cuba was a pioneering country in using many technological inventions, and one of the things that forever transformed the lives of its citizens was the production of ice.

On July 21, 1888, the joint-stock company "Nueva Fábrica de Hielo" was established, starting the production and distribution of this precious element in Havana.

The first ice factory in Cuba was located at University Street #34.

Until the first half of the 19th century, ice was transported from frozen lakes to warm regions using the transportation methods of the time. The giant blocks were covered with cork and straw to keep them preserved and were stored in holes in the ground for greater durability.

In Cuba, the first shipments of ice arrived by boat, but it was something very expensive.

In 1834, American mechanical engineer and physicist Jacob Perkins patented the first ice-making machine. The invention was introduced to the island, on an industrial scale, by the end of that century. The Cuban factory quickly began to meet the high demand for ice in the capital.

Ice blocks were distributed in horse-drawn carts throughout Havana, and since refrigerators had not yet arrived, a wooden cabinet covered with zinc and rubber was used to keep things cold.

These early refrigerators had separate compartments for ice and food. Only the privileged classes could afford this wonderful piece of furniture.

The website Cuba en la Memoria points out that the corporation "Nueva Fábrica de Hielo" overcame an economic crisis in 1890, thanks to the financial management of its president, Don Ramón de Herrera y Gutiérrez.

Little by little, more ice factories were established in Havana. Among the most famous are "La Palma" and the International Brewing Company S.A., which also produced Polar beer and Trimalta malt.

In 1960, the ice, beer, and other beverage factories such as Coca-Cola were intervened and their owners exiled.

The story of companies like the "Nueva Fábrica de Hielo" remains a reminder of the innovation that once defined Cuba, contrasting with the current reality of shortages and difficulties in the country, even for making ice in the 21st century.