This section is from the book "The Fireless Cooker", by Caroline B. Lovewell, Frances D. Whittemore, Hannah W. Lyon. Also available from Amazon: The Fireless Cooker.
A box used solely for preserving cold foods is a practical help in many homes. Stone jars make the best compartments, because they hold a given temperature remarkably well. Select large jars and pack them side by side in a good box. The jars should touch each other, with wide insulation at all of the outer edges. Have good stoneware covers and a thick, firm cushion for the top. A pail of ice set in the middle jar will chill them all. It will keep them cold a day or two after the ice has changed to ice water. When ice cannot be obtained, the temperature may be lowered many degrees by very cold water. Keep this cold box in your very coldest corner. This may be used instead of a refrigerator, or as a useful adjunct to one. A small piece of ice will give generous service if the insulation is good. It may hold gelatines, custards, fresh fruits, salads, vegetables, cold meats, and frozen creams in fine condition for the table.

Cold Box.
 
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