Turning Ice House Stone into a Poolside Stone Wall
Nestled in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley of rural Virginia, my dad’s 1890 farmhouse has always been a place of history and charm. When he decided to build a custom stone wall and fence around his pool, he knew he wanted something unique—a feature that would echo the character of the home. Enter Jason the Mason, our trusted craftsman, who took my dad’s rough napkin sketch and turned it into a masterpiece.
But what makes this wall truly special is its origin story. The stones used to create it came from an old ice house on a neighboring property.
What’s an Ice House?
Ice houses were common in the 19th and early 20th centuries before refrigeration became widespread. These structures were used to store blocks of ice, often harvested from nearby rivers or ponds during winter. The ice was insulated with materials like straw or sawdust, keeping it frozen well into the summer months. In rural areas like the Shenandoah Valley, ice houses were vital for preserving food and beverages year-round. The pictures below show a couple examples of an ice house.
When my dad’s neighbor decided to demolish their ice house, my dad saw an opportunity to repurpose the beautiful stones and preserve a piece of local history. Jason agreed it was a brilliant idea and set out to bring this vision to life.
A Chilly Start
Jason began the project in March, expecting to dodge the harshest of winter’s grip. Instead, he was greeted with freezing temperatures and snow. Not one to back down, he set up a tent equipped with a forced-air heater to create a manageable workspace.
The Process
The ice house stones were hand-picked and carefully transported to the worksite. Each stone carried its own story—weathered by time, etched with the marks of its past life. Jason’s dedication to detail was unmatched. Check out images below to see the stones they chose from the ice house.
Construction of the Wall
It took three trips to complete the stone wall, but the result was well worth the effort.
The new wall not only frames the pool beautifully but also serves as a lasting tribute to the resourcefulness and history of the Shenandoah Valley.
The final product is a stunning blend of rustic charm and functional design. The texture and color of the stones add depth and character to the poolside, creating a space that feels both elegant and grounded in history.
And of course, we couldn’t forget to include our cow friends that accompanied us during the process:
If you’re wondering what to do with old stones or materials from historic structures, this project is a testament to the beauty of reimagining the past for modern use. It’s not just about building something new—it’s about preserving stories and adding your own chapter to them.
Gratitude Break
A huge thank you to Jason and his team for their craftsmanship and perseverance. This wall is more than just a boundary; it’s a work of art, steeped in history and created with care.
So, what’s your next project? Maybe there’s a piece of history in your backyard just waiting to be transformed. We’d be happy to help.
