One Inch of Ice Was Found Near Aldgate Pump and Echunga
Date
17 July 1873
Summary / Overview
The cold-extreme date was 17 July, but the documentary reports describe cold conditions across the surrounding period. These include frost, ice, reported snow and effects on health and crop growth. The one-inch ice observation near Aldgate Pump and Echunga refers specifically to 21–22 July, not 17 July.
Meteorological data recorded at the time
Documentary observation — Aldgate Pump/Echunga, 21–22 Jul: ice 1 inch thick.
Documentary observation — Inman Valley, report dated 24 Jul: thermometer fell to 28–30°F during the preceding four nights/mornings.
Historical descriptions / observations
Border Watch, 19 Jul 1873 — Penola: “…it is very cold morning and evening and a number of adults and children are suffering from colds and influenza.”
The Express and Telegraph, 23 Jul 1873: “…ice an inch in thickness was found.”
The South Australian Advertiser, 25 Jul 1873 — Reeves Plains: “I think the frost is severe on them, and slightly checks their growth.”
Source
Border Watch, 19 Jul 1873; The Express and Telegraph, 23 Jul 1873; The South Australian Advertiser, 24 Jul 1873; Northern Argus, 25 Jul 1873; The South Australian Advertiser, 25 Jul 1873; Southern Argus, 25 Jul 1873.