Fruitful Idaho: An America250 in Idaho Exhibition

The Idaho State Archives will join the America 250 in Idaho celebrations with a series of exhibitions and public programs that examine key historical developments that shaped the state and its relationship to the nation.

Through documentary collections, exhibits, and educational events, the Archives will highlight Idaho’s agricultural legacy, territorial formation, and significant historical milestones.

Join us for the opening reception of “Fruitful Idaho”

Fruitful Idaho will explore the settlement programs and agricultural efforts that supported the permanent growth of Idaho communities. The exhibition is organized around three central themes:

Reclamation – Examining federal and state water development projects and their role in agricultural expansion
Agriculture – Highlighting the development of fruit and vegetable production across the state
Farm Labor – Presenting the contributions and experiences of workers who helped build Idaho’s agricultural economy

The exhibition features historical Payette Valley fruit crate labels, along with maps and documentation tied to the Carey Act, Homesteading, and federal reclamation efforts.

A public reception will be held on Wednesday October 29, 2025, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. and will feature a keynote address by Dr. Bob Reinhardt (Boise State University), who will speak on the region’s agricultural and environmental history.

RSVP HERE