Adcox family holds dedication to the memory of J.M. Adcox and Theo Adcox

The old Ice House that was on Mill Street for many years had fallen into such disrepair and safety concerns that it could not be restored. As a good neighbor, Highland Oil Corporation, recognized the need for improving the property.

So, David Adcox approached the Historical Society, who owns the property, and through the generosity of Highland Oil Corporation, and David and Connie Adcox, the Ice House was demolished and replaced with a nice pavilion that will provide an area for the citizens of the community to use for picnics, family gatherings or just relaxing in the tranquil Discovery Center.

On April 5, a ceremony was held and a plaque was unveiled dedicating the facility to James M. (Tookie) and Theo Adcox, parents of David, Jane Cherry and Jimmy Adcox. They each in turn recognized the members of the families present for this occasion.

Some background history of the Ice House was shared by Mr. Adcox.

"Announced in the Lewis County Herald in the January 20, 1927 edition, 'Hohenwald to get modern ice plant; Coca Cola plant to operate in connection with the ice plant which would continue to operate for close to 3 decades.' Built on property on Mill Street across from what is now Highland Corporation, the Hohenwald Coal and Ice Company, went in service in May 1927, operated by J.S. Patterson and boasted of a 12 ton daily capacity. The cost of the plant was approximately $16,000 and 'will relieve a long felt want for ice during the hot summer months.' At some point, the property was purchased by Tookie and Theo Adcox. It became the home of Hohenwald Truck Lines in the 60's. It was leased to Lewis Clay, who operated it as a Feed Store for several years, and then it was abandoned for several decades. The Historical Society acquired the property as part of the Discovery Center development and had good intentions to restore the old building, but it had deteriorated to a point where it was not feasible. Stories about icehouse were also mentioned in author William Gay's 'Short Stories from William Gay.'"

David lovingly spoke of his mother and dad, Tookie and Theo Adcox, and the legacy they left to the community and their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also thanked H&R Hardware and Building Supply, who donated building supplies, Junior Sleighbaugh, our builder, Kevin King, who helped with the plaque, and Scott Higgins for demolition service.

Dorothy Warf, President of the Lewis County Historical Society, thanked Highland Corporation and David and Connie Adcox again for their generosity to the community.

The event was followed by a luncheon planned and hosted by Karen, Wanda and staff of Highland Corporation.