By "overcoming" refrigeration I am assuming you mean dealing with a lack of it. You can keep prepared food from spoiling by keeping it warm as well as cool. I have a warmer made with heavy wire that is in a box shape and site over a kerosene lamp, flame on reeeel low. It will keep a small pot of soup etc warm until the next meal.

I don't know if it's still in publication but I use to get a magazine called Mother Earth News in the 70's and 80's that people had invented or built from just about anything they could find. Like Wood stove powered trucks, root cellars, you name it.

Sounds like Countryside & Small Stock Journal would be perfect for you!
http://www.countrysidemag.com/
They talk about alternative refrigeration methods in some way or another just about every month. I think you can get back issues from their site too.
Mother Earth News is still in production, I personally prefer Countryside, hands down!

Here is a link that might be useful: Country Side & Small Stock Journal

Mother Earth magazine is not the same as it was in the 70s. I have some of those copies.

I would recommend Countryside & Small Stock Journal. I also read Backwoods Home and Back Home. Backwoods is alittle more of a survivalist, but they have alot tips.