A buried ice house at the Henry Clay Estate (Ashland), intended to keep food and ice cold year around.
The Henry Clay Estate, also known as Ashland, is a historic landmark located in Lexington, Kentucky. This grand estate was the home of Henry Clay, a prominent 19th-century statesman and orator known as the “Great Compromiser” for his efforts to maintain the Union. The property spans over 17 acres and includes the meticulously preserved mansion, a carriage house, formal gardens, and walking trails. One notable feature is the ice house, an underground structure used during Clay’s time for food and ice storage year-round, demonstrating the innovative practices of the era. Today, the estate serves as a museum and cultural site, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential political figures.