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Idaho was part of the Oregon Territory before it became a separate territory in 1863, and then a state in 1890. At the time, Idaho's borders were much larger than they are now, including parts of Wyoming and Montana.
About Ada County
Ada County Timeline
Ada County is located in southwestern Idaho and was established in 1864. It is named after Ada Riggs, daughter of the first settler in the area, H.C. Riggs. The region was originally inhabited by the Shoshone and Bannock Native American tribes. In the early 1800s, European fur traders and explorers began to arrive in the area.
The discovery of gold in the Boise Basin in the 1860s led to a population boom in Ada County and its county seat, Boise City. The area became a major supply center for miners, and many settlers moved to the county in search of prosperity. Agriculture also thrived in the fertile Boise River Valley, with farmers growing crops such as potatoes, grains, and orchard fruits.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ada County experienced significant growth and development. The completion of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1887 boosted the local economy, opening up new markets for agricultural products and facilitating transportation. The city of Boise became a regional economic hub, attracting businesses, government institutions, and educational facilities.
Throughout the 20th century, Ada County continued to grow, with an increasing population and expanding infrastructure. The county's economy diversified, and industries such as manufacturing, technology, and healthcare emerged. Today, Ada County is known for its thriving economy, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant cultural scene, making it a desirable place to live and visit in Idaho.
The discovery of gold in the Boise Basin in the 1860s led to a population boom in Ada County and its county seat, Boise City. The area became a major supply center for miners, and many settlers moved to the county in search of prosperity. Agriculture also thrived in the fertile Boise River Valley, with farmers growing crops such as potatoes, grains, and orchard fruits.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ada County experienced significant growth and development. The completion of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1887 boosted the local economy, opening up new markets for agricultural products and facilitating transportation. The city of Boise became a regional economic hub, attracting businesses, government institutions, and educational facilities.
Throughout the 20th century, Ada County continued to grow, with an increasing population and expanding infrastructure. The county's economy diversified, and industries such as manufacturing, technology, and healthcare emerged. Today, Ada County is known for its thriving economy, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant cultural scene, making it a desirable place to live and visit in Idaho.
Ada County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Ada County, Idaho.
- 1805 - Lewis and Clark Expedition passes through the area now known as Ada County.
- 1812 - The first fur trading post, known as Fort Boise, is established by the British Hudson's Bay Company.
- 1843 - The Oregon Trail is established, bringing settlers to the region.
- 1863 - Ada County is created as one of the original counties of Idaho Territory.
- 1864 - Boise becomes the capital of the Idaho Territory.
- 1872 - The first railroad reaches Boise, spurring growth and development in the area.
- 1892 - The Idaho State Penitentiary is constructed in Boise.
- 1912 - Idaho becomes a state, and Boise remains its capital.
- 1959 - The East End Historic District in Boise is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
- 1973 - The Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center opens, providing educational programs about the area's wildlife and natural resources.
- 1996 - The World Center for Birds of Prey, operated by The Peregrine Fund, opens in Boise.
- 2020 - Ada County experiences rapid population growth and becomes a thriving economic center.