Potato houses were used on large farms and plantations to store potatoes and other vegetables, similar to a root cellar.

Sweet potatoes were an important part of the diet for Lexington residents.

Although not as popular as sweet potatoes, what they called Irish or “aish” potatoes, were grown and kept in the potato house. This structure has clay between the logs to provide a stable temperature and protect against pests.

Pinestraw would have also been used to keep the vegetables warm.