The Charlotte Museum of History

Springhouse

The foundation of this springhouse dates to approximately 1774, but the structure itself has been reconstructed based on early photographs.

Two-story springhouses were rare in this area. A springhouse had multiple uses, the most important being food preservation.

Inside the lower level of the springhouse, natural spring water still flows over a floor of bedrock.

Ceramic crocks and jars containing perishables such as milk, butter, or cheese were placed in the water to be cooled, since the water temperature remains between 54 and 56 degrees Fahrenheit year round.


	Springhouse The foundation of this springhouse dates to approximately 1774, but the structure itself has been reconstructed based on early photographs. Two-story springhouses were rare in this area. A springhouse had multiple uses, the most important being food preservation. Inside the lower level of the springhouse, natural spring water still flows over a floor of bedrock. Ceramic crocks and jars containing perishables such as milk, butter, or cheese were placed in the water to be cooled, since the water temperature remains between 54 and 56 degrees Fahrenheit year round.