said . “ This project helped to bring a run down building and its history back to life .” According to the Davis ’ research , the Icehouse was built in 1897 by William Grimes , a local businessman and entrepreneur . The building was constructed to provide ice to the local community , which , at the time , did not have access to refrigeration technology . The icehouse sold and delivered ice by wagon to local residents and businesses throughout the year . An area in the back of the property , which now features a deck and backyard , led straight to the train to help the cars keep goods and produce refrigerated for long journeys . Aside from the building ’ s railroadrelated history , visitors might be amused to know that the building played a small part in an infamous crime spree in the early 1930s . “ As we were researching the history of the building we were surprised to find out that Bonnie and Clyde came to Palestine July 16 , 1932 ,” Jodi said . “ They robbed the Robinson bank , then proceeded to beat and rob the bookkeeper of the icehouse !” The icehouse was purchased by Palestine Ice & Refrigeration Company in 1907 , which expanded the facility to a more modern plant . They also began selling other products , such as milk and butter , which were kept cold . “ I haven ’ t found a time that it was closed ,” Jodi said . “ But I remember it still provided ice until the early 1980 ’ s .” Today the Icehouse Inn provides much more luxurious accommodations . Two areas will be available for rent , the first being a one bedroom , one bathroom unit perfect for a romantic getaway . The second is a three bedroom , two bath with a full kitchen which will comfortably accommodate large groups or families . “’ Industrial ’ is a pretty good description of the style and décor ,” Jodi said . “ We tried to save as much of the original walls as we could . Brickwork and concrete are featured throughout the building . We saved the most recent doors in Icehouse 1 . Each room has a theme of sorts , but mainly we wanted to represent Palestine and the railroad . We have decorated with things bought here in town from local businesses .”
Jodi described the style and décor of the Icehouse Inn as ‘ Industrial ’ with the original brickwork and concrete featured throughout the building .
The exterior of the building is adorned with one of Palestine ’ s newest murals by renowned local muralist Deanna Frye . Iconic Dogwoods adorn the corner of the building , in keeping with Palestine ’ s rich history , along with bold lettering to announce to travelers that they have arrived . The building ’ s close proximity to the railroad might cause some to pause , but train horns are not used in the Downtown area due to an implemented quiet zone and the building seems perfectly suited to convert locomotive ‘ noise ’ to a charming ambiance . “ The train comes through twice a day , typically around 9 a . m . and 4 p . m ., give or take a little bit , and the building is really sound-proofed well ,” Jodi said . “ From the inside you can barely hear it . My grandson and I love to go wave at the conductors . We have a wonderful deck area to enjoy the train as it passes .” The project has been a labor of love for the Davises , albeit not one without adventure . “ It has been a fun journey and we have enjoyed the process , but it ’ s not for the faint of heart ,” Jodi said . “ We have faced a lot of challenges due to the fact it is a very old building , but I think , like any new adventure , seeing the end result makes it all worth it .” The Icehouse Inn will be listed on Airbnb and will begin taking reservations in the near future . For more information call 903-724-0605 .
14 SUMMER EDITION 2023