Willie The Wimp wrote:
Little brick bungalow in midwest US, built in 1954. Mostly original
stuff. Floor-boards creak a good bit. I'm alone here.

Every night, in bed, I hear a CLUNK from the direction of the kitchen.
Often a second one, not too long after the first. I've heard it while in
the dining room as well. Never while I was in the kitchen.

I orignally figgered it was in the studs or rafters, possibly
where they attach to the forced-air ductwork. If so, I may never
find the cause.

Fridge is an Amana built around 1984. Has given very good service.

It sometimes sounds like it is coming from the fridge, but I can't
tell for sure. Do they CLUNK when the compressor shuts off?

Any other ideas?

Thx,
Willie

I had a Sears that did what you describe - I doubt that it did so from
day one, but it died just a little past the five-year warranty on the motor.