Ice Tongs

This tool at Smith’s Tavern has cast iron ice tongs.  Tongs were used to lift and carry blocks of ice by the men who delivered ice to homes and businesses.  When the ice truck or wagon arrived at a house or business, the delivery man would pull a block of ice out of the vehicle using the ice tongs.  He would then lift the ice block to his shoulder, which was protected from the cold and dampness with a thick sheepskin pad.  

Reference:  http://www.woodsholemuseum.org/icehouse/delivery.html

Catalog Items:

Item T247

Location:	Open Shelves - Middle
Length:	41 cm
Width:	26 cm