The original ice plant was built on this site in the 1890s. This brick building pictured was built in 1913 for ice storage and expanded in 1926. It measures 41 ' x 41 ' and has brick walls 21 inches thick lined with six inches of cork insulation. During it's day this plant played a significant role in the success of both the fishing and railroad industries in Punta Gorda from 1913-1939. This facility allowed fish to be kept fresh and shipped to northern markets. It also was fitted to deliver electricity for city residences, and was later purchased by Florida Power and Light. It served as a ice and power facility until the 1960s and then for a period of time was a furniture store. The structure received severe damage from Hurricane Charley in 2004 and after rehabilitation currently houses two restaurants and offices. The Punta Gorda Ice Plant is listed on the National Register of Historic Places #8CH447.
