White Clad Simmons Hardware Company Ice Box Value Guide

The White Clad ice box, produced by the St. Louis-based Simmons Hardware Company between 1880 and 1920, is a quintessential piece of Americana. These oak units are highly collectible today for their durable construction and their historical role as the precursor to the modern electric refrigerator.

What affects the value of White Clad Simmons Hardware Company Ice Box?

• The condition of the oak finish, as original patina is often more desirable than modern polyurethane refinishing.
• Completeness of the brass hardware, including the original swivel mechanisms and door latches.
• The integrity of the interior metal insulation layer and whether it has been removed for modern storage use.
• Market demand for specific configurations, such as those featuring the integrated open shelving.

How to Identify White Clad Simmons Hardware Company Ice Box?

• Look for the signature 'White Clad' embossed brass nameplate typically mounted on the front of the unit.
• Verify the construction materials consist of solid oak wood with original brass latches and hinges.
• Check for the specific swivel top design and the presence of an open lower shelf characteristic of this model.
• Inspect the interior for the original metal lining which gave the 'White Clad' line its name.

History of White Clad Simmons Hardware Company Ice Box

The Simmons Hardware Company, a major wholesaler based in St. Louis, Missouri, began producing "White Clad" ice boxes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These ice boxes were designed to keep food cold before the widespread adoption of electric refrigerators, using large blocks of ice in an insulated compartment. The 'White Clad' name referred to the common interior lining, usually metal, that was easy to clean. Many of these units have since been repurposed as decorative furniture or storage.