About the Idaho State Historical Society
The Idaho State Historical Society serves over 110,000 people each year through educational programs, inspiring exhibitions, fun events, genealogy and family history, research use, and technical assistance. Annually, over 15,000 school-aged children benefit from ISHS programs and visits.
The Idaho State Historical Society is state assisted and raises more than half of its budget to support services and programs with a mix of fees, public and private grants, memberships, corporations and philanthropic gifts. Support Idaho history by making a donation today.
In 1881, a room of visionary early settlers contemplated their shared and unique experiences. Eighteen years after the establishment of Idaho Territory, and nine years before statehood, they created the Historical Society of Idaho Pioneers to collect and preserve information connected with the early settlement of the Territory.
Twenty-six years later, on March 12, 1907, the Idaho legislature established the Idaho State Historical Society. The State Historical Society became the steward of the array of literary and scientific artifacts gathered by the Pioneer Association and was charged to collect materials illustrative of the state’s history, including procuring pioneer narratives, preserving information on Indian tribes, collecting artifacts, and cataloging books, manuscripts, pamphlets and newspapers. John Hailey, packer, stage line operator, and historian, served as the first secretary/librarian of the Society until his death in 1921. From his appointment until 1956, the head of the Society served under a variety of titles, including secretary, librarian, historian, and sometimes all three at once.
At the time it became a state agency, the Society’s collections were housed in a building on Eighth Street, as well as in the home of Ella Cartee Reed, who became Hailey’s assistant and succeeded him. Two months after the State Society’s establishment, the collections were moved into the State Historical room in the Territorial Capitol and placed on exhibition. The Society then moved around the Capitol mall and eventually into the new Capitol building. In the early 1930s, the legislature authorized funding in 1939 for a new facility that would feature the agency’s collections and the Idaho State Historical Museum opened in Julia Davis Park in 1950. The Franklin Relic Hall was acquired in 1936.
With the enthusiastic support of Governor Robert Smylie and funding from J.R. Simplot, the Board of Trustees in 1956 hired its first trained director, H.J. Swinney. The Swinney era, which lasted until 1965, marked the beginning of the professional Idaho State Historical Society, with the establishment of a membership program, initial publication of Idaho Yesterdays and Mountain Light, creation of the highway historical marker program, and the beginning of the research Reference Series, as well as the Children’s Program at the Museum.
Under the direction of Dr. Merle Wells, the State Historical Society provided national leadership which resulted in the establishment of the Federal- State Preservation Program in the late 1960s. The State Historic Preservation office was established in Idaho in 1972 and located in the Assay Office. The Society focused on historic preservation and program expansion during the 1970s and 80s with the acquisition of the Pierce Courthouse (1972); Old Idaho Penitentiary (1975); the Hatch and Doney House and ZCMI Store in Franklin (1979-2002); Rock Creek Station and Striker Ranch (1984) and the Accreditation and expansion of the Idaho Historical Museum in 1972 and 1980, respectively.
The Idaho State Historical Society commemorated the Centennial of Idaho in 1990, enhanced exhibitions at the Idaho Historical Museum, and served in a leadership role for the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial (2003-2006.) The Idaho State Archives re-opened in 2005 in the new Idaho History Center, located in the Old Pen Historic District.
Today, the Idaho State Historical Society is an extraordinary system of cultural and historic resources whose mission is to preserve and promote Idaho’s history. The Idaho State Historical Society is a trusted guide through our state’s history, offering programs that essential to the state on all levels. Committed to its statewide leadership role, the Idaho State Historical Society actively engages communities throughout Idaho to share information about Idaho’s history and build history literacy.
The Governor of Idaho appoints a board of Trustees to govern the State Historical Society. Through a staff of 57 professionals, 150 volunteers, and numerous affiliates, the State Historical Society provides essential and dynamic services to 110,000 people and serves an additional 700,000 on its web-site.
The Idaho State Historical Society illuminates our state’s future and helps people of all ages explore and appreciate Idaho’s rich past and learn more about themselves.
Hours
Monday-Friday| 8am-5pm
Closed
Closed State Holidays
Location
2205 Old Penitentiary Road
Boise, ID 83712
Contact
(208) 334-2682
A Letter from the Director
Welcome to the Idaho State Historical Society!
For nearly 145 years, the Idaho State Historical Society has preserved and promoted the rich history that shapes who we are as Idahoans. Created by the Territorial Legislature in 1881 and established as a state agency in 1907, ISHS has evolved from its founding mission of chronicling the state’s development to becoming a dynamic, statewide institution that provides essential educational, cultural, and governmental services. Our longevity is a testament to the public’s trust—and we remain deeply committed to earning that trust every day.
As Idaho has grown, so has our role. Through our museums, historic sites, archives, records center, and preservation programs, we provide Idahoans with tangible connections to the past. These connections illuminate the present, inspire reflection, and inform decision-making. From Natonal History Day to preservation of legislative records, from the restoration of historic buildings to honoring family legacies through our Century Farm and Ranch Programs, our work serves every Idahoan, in every corner of the state.
Our impact is broad and measurable:
- Educational and cultural tourism initiatives generate economic activity and inspire lifelong learning.
- Historic preservation programs ensure that development is informed by Idaho’s unique cultural legacy.
- Public records and archival services protect the transparency and accountability essential to responsible government.
- Community partnerships and recognition programs celebrate the Idahoans who have helped shape our state’s story.
The legacy of ISHS is one of public service, trust, and relevance. We are proud to safeguard the documents, artifacts, places, and stories that define Idaho. But more than that, we are committed to making these irreplaceable, authentic resources and their stories accessible through exhibitions, programs and services that connect Idahoans meaningfully to their roots, and transformative for their futures.
As we look toward the Semi quincentennial in 2026 and beyond, ISHS is focused on building a legacy of connectivity, engagement, and excellence. We listen deeply, act boldly, and lead with integrity. In this spirit, we invite you to become a part of our story.
Whether you attend a program, contribute a historic item, explore our exhibitions, advocate for preservation, or join us as a member—you are helping sustain the living legacy of Idaho.
With gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead,
Janet L. Gallimore
Executive Director & State Historic Preservation Officer
Idaho State Historical Society
Whether you’re a student needing educational resources, you’re seeking an inspiring experience, or you’re visiting Idaho from another state, we invite you explore not only Idaho’s rich history but your part in that story, too. The Idaho State Historical Society is a great resource to help Idahoans and visitors understand our history and where we’re headed.
Idaho State Historical Society Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees of the Idaho State Historical Society is the policy-making and governance body for the Agency, is appointed by the Governor, and has all of the powers and duties established by the Constitution of the State of Idaho. Trustees provide a statewide perspective that informs Agency services and serve as a vital communication link back to communities.
Members of the board are recruited and selected on the basis of their qualifications with due regard to their knowledge, competence, experience, and interest in the fields related to the preservation and promotion of Idaho history.
The Board represents the entire state of Idaho and are responsible for ensuring that Agency statutes, policies and procedures are followed. The Board delegates the management of the organization to the executive director and leadership team of the Society.
Don Pischner, Coeur d’Alene
Don Pischner was a four-term Idaho Legislator representing the people of three counties; Kootenai, Benewah, and Shoshone. He served seven years on the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee and became interested in the Idaho State Historical Society though the presentations made to the committee and his long-term interest in Idaho’s development. He is a third generation Idahoan whose grandparents settled north of Hayden Lake during the 1890s. Mr. Pischner has a continued interest in the history of Idaho, its politics, characters and events of its territorial era. He has pursued his interest in the lives and adventures of “Chief Joseph,” “Lewis and Clark,” and “William ‘Billie’ Clagett. In the 1980s, he served six years on the Board of Directors for the Museum of North Idaho and was part of the establishment of the current facility that is home to it today.
Idaho Judicial District 1 is comprised of the following counties: Boundary, Bonner, Kootenai, Benewah, and Shoshone
Dr. Amy Canfield, Lewiston
Dr. Amy Canfield was raised in Idaho and considers herself lucky to be able to call it home again as an adult. She earned her BA in History from Idaho State University, and both her Masters and Doctorate from Washington State University. Her dissertation examined Idaho history, focusing on the Dawes Act and Reclamation Act at the Fort Hall Indian Reservation. She is currently a Professor of History at Lewis-Clark State College, teaching classes on U.S. history, women’s history, public history, and American Indian history. She serves on the Historic Sites Review Board for ISHS, as well as the Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office advisory Board. Previously, she served on the board of directors for the Lewiston Civic Theatre, the Idaho Humanities Council, Idaho’s League of Women Voters state board, and the Nez Perce County Historical Society. She’s received teaching and researching awards from LCSC, a Women’s Leadership Award, and Idaho’s Brightest Stars Award for volunteering. She and her husband, Joel Mills, are raising their two daughters in Lewiston, where they enjoy kayaking, hiking, and backpacking. She is passionate about teaching and talking about history, historical interpretation and preservation, and Elvis. Always Elvis.
The Second Judicial District includes the counties of Clearwater, Latah, Lewis, Idaho and Nez Perce located in North Central Idaho.
Bill Butticci, Emmett
Bill Butticci is an Idaho Native with family ties going back to the pioneer days. He is currently serving as County Commissioner of Gem County part time and is employed full-time at Micron Technology working in Quality Control. Bill has also spent ten years living in Boston while supporting defense contracts and used the majority of the weekends taking the family to the historic sites of New England.
While serving as Mayor, Bill took steps to restore and preserve the historic sites in the community. A design Review Ordinance was developed and passed to maintain the look of the historic downtown district. The city park band shell has been restored and put back to its original use of having performances for community events. Currently Commissioner Butticci is working on the preservation of one of the oldest homes in the state of Idaho and including it as part of a Scenic Byway named 52 on 52 in which the house may be toured. Along with this Bill’s Revitalization Committee has promoted a walking trail which utilizes restored historical bridges from around Idaho which cross the waterways of the path. The Lolo Creek Bridge was presented with an Orchid Award. He believes that we must preserve our past and educate our youth to maintain our identity as not to get lost in the present. Commissioner Butticci currently serves on the board of directors for Sage, a Community of Councils and has been appointed for a second-term to the 3rd Judicial District Magistrate Courts Commission.
Idaho Judicial District 3 is comprised of the following counties: Adams, Washington, Payette, Gem, Canyon, and Owyhee
Mary Ann Arnold, Boise
Mary Ann Arnold, originally from Ohio, came to Idaho via Louisiana. While studying for a master’s in mathematics at Louisiana State University, she met an undergraduate Air Force veteran who was a native Idahoan – as they say the – rest is history. After “tying the knot”, they relocated to Cleveland, Ohio where Mary Ann worked at NASA’s Lewis Research Center as an Aerospace Technologist/Computer Modeling-Physicists Team Member researching the viability of a full-scale Ion Engine which would provide an infinite source of power for space travel.
After her husband’s graduation, there was only one place to live – Idaho! Ultimately, after moving to Boise, Mary Ann joined Morrison-Knudsen, Inc., a world-wide Engineering and Construction company, as a Project Controls Engineer rising to the level of Corporate Executive Director with global responsibility for staff and projects in-country and over-seas.
While growing up in Ohio, Mary Ann’s family took many “history vacations”, to see firsthand, important historical sites in the mid-west and east coast. These excursions led to a life-long interest in history, especially the importance of preservation for future generations. As a result, after retiring from MK she was able to pursue her avocation blended with her vocation.
With her construction background and a long-time interest in history, she has had the opportunity to be engaged in two major projects: the Idaho State Museum Renovation as the Value Engineering & Community Fundraising Chair, and the Foote Park Interpretive Center, as Co-Founder. Foote Park is located near Lucky Peak Dam and honors the original New York Canal System designer/engineer and his wife. For this project, she spent hundreds of hours on historical research, plus extensive time on interpretive panel design, countless hours fund-raising, and finally, construction oversight for the center. Foote Park has been the recipient of an Orchid Award and the prestigious AASLH Award of Excellence. Mary Ann has served as Project Manager on other historical projects, notably, the Idaho Women’s Commemorative Sculpture on the Idaho State Capitol grounds.
Mary Ann is/has served as president of multiple boards and is also a member of many service clubs and non-profit organizations. She has received several community awards and service recognitions in her role as a community volunteer.
Idaho Judicial District 4 is comprised of the following counties: Valley, Boise, Ada, and Elmore
Justing Vipperman, Vice Chair, Wendell
Justin Vipperman is an instructor of history at the College of Southern Idaho where he splits time between teaching and mentoring dual credit instructors across the state. He holds several degrees, including a bachelor’s in history from Idaho State University and a master’s in history and public history from Portland State University, Ore. Vipperman is a doctoral candidate studying political science and history at Idaho State University.
A fifth generation Idahoan, Vipperman is an active member of his community, volunteering with several local and statewide civic organizations. He serves on the board of the Idaho Humanities Council, the Foundation for Idaho History, St. Luke’s Foundation Board, and Preservation Twin Falls. Vipperman and his wife Rebecca, the Mayor of Wendell, spend most of their time enjoying the outdoors with their three children.
Idaho Judicial District 5 is comprised of the following counties: Twin Falls, Camas, Blaine, Lincoln, Gooding, Minidoka, Cassia, Jerome
Rick Phillips, Pocatello
As a fifth-generation Idaho native, Rick Phillips connection to this state—and especially to Southeast Idaho—is both personal and deeply rooted. Phillips was born and raised on a dairy farm in rural Franklin County, where he developed a lifelong passion for agriculture and community service.
Over the past four decades, he has dedicated his professional life to Idaho’s agricultural sector, serving as Manager of Public Affairs for the J.R. Simplot Company’s AgriBusiness Group from 1990 to 2024, and earlier in his career, an agricultural banker and assistant director of the Idaho Department of Agriculture. These roles allowed him to engage with all communities and counties within Judicial District 6—Power, Bannock, Caribou, Bear Lake, Franklin, and Oneida. Through this work, he built close relationships with civic leaders, government officials, business leaders, and countless individuals committed to improving our region.
He has served on numerous boards and initiatives that reflect his commitment to education, economic development, youth programs, and agriculture:
- Past Chair, Greater Idaho Red Cross
- Past Chair, Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges
- Past Chair, Idaho School to Work Initiative (Appointed by Governor Cecil Andrus)
- Past Chair, Idaho Economic Advisory Council (Appointed by Governor Brad Little)
- Past Chair, Bannock Development Corporation
- Past Chair, Eastern Idaho Ag Hall of Fame
- Chair, Simplot Credit Union
- Board Member, Greater Pocatello/Chubbuck Chamber of Commerce
- Board Member, St. Luke’s Children’s Advisory Board
- Founding Board Member, Southeast Idaho Boys and Girls Club
Rick’s journey reflects a lifelong dedication to strengthening our communities, supporting agriculture, and creating opportunities for future generations.
Idaho Judicial District 6 is comprised of the following counties: Power, Bannock, Caribou, Bear Lake, Oneida, and Franklin
Dr. Cheryl O’Brien, Chair, Idaho Falls
Dr. Cheryl O’Brien is an Associate Director at the Idaho Women’s Business Center, a nonprofit organization helping women thrive in business. This is her “retirement job” after a 30+ year career in engineering.
Cheryl holds B.S. and M.E degrees in Civil Engineering, and a D.A. in Political Science.
Cheryl started her career as a Naval Architect at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, and worked for various contractors including Westinghouse, Lockheed-Martin, and Battelle Energy Alliance at the Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls. Specializing in structural analysis and design of nuclear facilities, she moved through multiple levels of management in program development, energy management, and sustainable construction to become an Engineering Director. Cheryl was one of the first U.S. Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professionals in Idaho 20 years ago. She has volunteered on the Board of the Yellowstone Business Partnership locally, the Committee on Women and Diversity in Civil Engineering nationally, and organized engineering sessions and conferences internationally. Her political science expertise is in energy and technology policy which she continues to follow.
Cheryl and her husband Barry feel honored and lucky to live in a historic home. As distant relatives, they purchased the home of Fred and Anna Gustafson who were instrumental in developing the canal system in the Idaho Falls area from their descendants. The O’Briens also share agricultural family roots in Idaho.
Idaho Judicial District 7 is comprised of the following counties: Lemhi, Custer, Butte, Jefferson, Clark, Bingham, Bonneville, Teton, Madison, and Fremont
Established in 2014, the Legacy Circle of Emeritus Trustees seeks to build a state network of ISHS advocates the rough long term involvement with ISHS Emeritus Trustees. Emeritus Trustees remain committed to and engaged with the ISHS and its continuing efforts and developments.
W. James “Jim” Johnston, Pocatello (1942-2024)
Paul T. Smith, Twin Falls
Earl Bennett, Genesee
Ernest A. Hoidal, Boise (1949-2022)
Tom Blanchard, Bellevue
Hope Benedict, Salmon
Judy Meyer, Hayden
Jesse Walters, Boise
2009-2024 Board of Trustees, District 6
2018-2023 Board of Trustees, District 5
2006-2021 Board of Trustees, District 2
2015-2022 Board of Trustees, District 4
2005-2017 Board of Trustees, District 5
2008-2020 Board of Trustees, District 7
2008-2014 Board of Trustees, District 1
2009-2014 Board of Trustees, District 4
Idaho State Historical Society Affiliate Boards
In order to accomplish agency goals, ISHS relies upon a broad range of private, non-profit, affiliated organizations and partners.
The Archaeological Survey of Idaho (ASI) is the lead state entity for long-term curation of archaeological collections in Idaho and management of archaeological data. An advisory board for ASI includes the following members: the State Archaeologist; the academic vice presidents of the University of Idaho, Idaho State University, and Boise State University or their designated representatives; the governor or his designated representative, and a member of the public. Learn More
The Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS) engages community by building on shared experiences and inspiring further action and understanding. In order to accomplish agency funding and program goals, ISHS relies upon a broad range of private, non-profit, affiliated organizations and partners.
The Foundation for Idaho History, is a private, IRS determined 501(c)(3) non-profit and serves as the fund raising, fund management, and endowment organization to support and promote Idaho history through the work of the Idaho State Historical Society, a state agency.
The Board is composed of representatives throughout the State who are leaders in their communities and are passionate about Idaho history. In addition to ongoing fundraising programs, the Foundation organizes Wine, Eats and Artifacts events each year.
The Franklin Pioneer Association and the City of Franklin provide management and financial support at the Franklin Historic District. In partnership with ISHS staff, the Franklin Pioneer Association and the City of Franklin manage the preservation and interpretive programs at the site.
The Friends of Stricker provide management and financial support at the Rock Creek Station and Stricker Ranch Historic site. In partnership with ISHS staff, Friends of Stricker manage the preservation and interpretive programs at the site.
The Governor’s Lewis and Clark Trail Committee was established in 1983 to preserve the portion of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail that lies in Idaho. The mission of the committee is to protect the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail as part of Idaho’s heritage; to encourage appropriate maintenance of the Trail; to engender an appreciation of Idaho history through education; and to promote economic stability through cultural tourism.
Funding for the Trail Fund is derived primarily through revenues generated from the sale of the Lewis and Clark’s license plates and private or grant contributions. The Idaho State Historical Society provides fiscal oversight of the fund and the State Historian serves as the staff liaison to the committee.
In fulfillment of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the board serves in an advisory role to the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) in matters regarding Historic Preservation programs and policy. The key duties of the board include: review of National Register of Historic Places nominations for accuracy and adequacy; review and comment about the state’s comprehensive statewide historic preservation plan and the state’s annual historic preservation fund grant program; and general advice and guidance to the State Historic Preservation Officer as needed. The board is appointed by the Idaho State Historic Preservation officer.
Each state establishes a state names authority or board to provide locally-informed recommendations to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names. In Idaho, the Board of Trustees for the Idaho State Historical Society has been designated as the Idaho Geographic Names Board (IGNB). To conduct research about geographic names and advise them, the IGNB created the Idaho Geographic Names Advisory Council (IGNAC) comprised of state agencies, representatives, and members of the public with specific interest or expertise in place names.
The J Howard Bradbury Logging Museum provides management at the Pierce Courthouse historic site. In partnership with ISHS staff, the Logging Museum manages the preservation and interpretive programs at the site. Learn More
The mission of the Idaho State Historical Records Advisory Board (SHRAB), is to be an advocate for the creation, preservation, dissemination and use of information that accurately chronicles the people and institutions of Idaho, both public and private. Funded in part by a grant from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC), the Board meets four times a year to review new NHPRC grant applications and to coordinate statewide historical records concerns.