John Gorrie State Museum

Gulf Coast


Dr John Gorrie (1803–55), one of Apalachicola's most famous sons, developed an ice-making machine to keep yellow-fever patients cool during an epidemic. He died poor and unknown, unaware of how his invention laid the groundwork for modern refrigeration and air-conditioning. This tiny museum commemorates the man and his life, and is located on one of the town's most attractive squares.


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