These are just a few links related to refrigeration history I think are quite interesting. I encourage you to check them out and reply with any of your own. OpenLibrary is an excellent source for older texts. Don't be afraid to do a "refrigeration" search and date it prior to 1935. These books are rich with common sense theory and expertise hard to find in modern textbooks.
History of Heat Pumps Swiss Contributions and International Milestones
Household Refrigeration - 1924; I have two editions of this book. It is excellent.
SEWAGE WATER: INTERESTING HEAT SOURCE FOR HEAT PUMPS AND CHILLERS
HVACR Heritage Center of Canada; Amazing collection.
Practical Ice Making and Refrigerating - 1897
Refrigeration - 1913
The Refrigeration Compressor - The Steps to Maturity