Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

In the old days, springhouses did the job ofrefrigerators. This springhouse served theoccupants of the farm from the 18th throughthe early 20th centuries.

It was built directly over the spring andshaded by trees. Cool spring water flowinginto the structure was channeled intotroughs of different depths before flowingout the other side. Whitewashing inside andout sealed the loosely mortared, thick, stonewalls and provided a clean surface on theinterior. Barred vents in the side wallsallowed fresh air to circulate and kept outfreeloading animals.

Even in summer, dairy goods, fresh produce,and other perishables could last several daysin watertight containers partially submergedin the troughs. Less perishable foods, suchas salted or smoked meat, pickles, cider, andwine, were stored up in the loft space andon shelves built into the walls. The springalso provided water for drinking and washingfor the house located to the north, up thehill behind the barn.

When Gardiner Means and Caroline Wareinstalled electricity in the 1930s, theypumped the spring water up to the house.A refrigerator and sink replaced most ofthe functions of the springhouse. Thespringhouse ruins were stabilized in 1996.

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Show me all markers in:  Vienna, VA  |  Fairfax County  |  22182  |  Virginia  |  United States of America

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