or the food in them quickly developed molds. There were many different ways to ventilate these cupboards. One of the most popular ventilation methods was to pierce a wooden panel with many small holes. These holes usually formed a design. In the early 19th century, advances in technology made thin sheets of metal cheaper and more abundant. American craftsman began to use pierced metal panels to ventilate food cupboards. Perhaps because these cupboards were partially made of metal, they reminded folks of a bank safe. Their makers gave them a whimsical nickname that has stuck to this day...PIE SAFE.
