Apalachicola in Franklin County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)
Birthplace of Air Conditioning.
Greetings from Apalachicola
Photographed by Tim Fillmon, August 21, 2026
1. Birthplace of Air Conditioning. Marker
One of Northwest Florida's earliest developed American settlements, Apalachicola is also home to a modern marvel. Dr. John Gorrie, a 19th-century physician credited with inventing mechanical refrigeration and artificial ice, developed his patent in the city. In his effort to treat yellow fever, Gorrie created a cooling system that changed modern medicine. His 1851 patent laid the foundation for air conditioning and modern food storage. Gorrie's legacy and impact on the modern era are honored both in Washington, D.C. and Apalachicola, with a bust in the National Statuary Hall and a small museum in Apalachicola which houses a replica of his original ice machine.
Florida’s Pioneer Spirit
Erected 2026 by America250FL Road Trip.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1851.
Location. 29° 43.508′ N, 84° 59.136′ W. Marker is in Apalachicola, Florida, in Franklin County. It is at the intersection of 6th Street and Avenue D Street on 6th Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 46 6th St, Apalachicola FL 32320,
this page online
Regionally, this marker is on the Florida Panhandle. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Deep South, and on the Gulf Coast. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, a Gulf of Mexico state, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Dr. John Gorrie (a few steps from this marker); Trinity Episcopal Church (within shouting distance of this marker); The Dr. Alvan W. Chapman House (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Methodist Episcopal Church South (about 500 feet away); a different marker also named The Dr. Alvan W. Chapman House (about 500 feet away); Fort Coombs - Franklin Guards (about 600 feet away); Chestnut Street Cemetery of Early Apalachicola (about 600 feet away); Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (about 700 feet away). Touch for a list and map
Photographed by Tim Fillmon, August 21, 2026
2. Birthplace of Air Conditioning. Marker
Another marker is no longer nearby. Historic Gorrie Square (was a few steps from this marker but has been confirmed missing).
Photographed by Tim Fillmon, August 21, 2026
3. Birthplace of Air Conditioning. Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on August 25, 2026. It was originally submitted on August 25, 2026, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. This page has been viewed 13 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on August 25, 2026, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida.
