National Register Listing

Oakley Historic District

Main St. and Wilson Ave., Oakley, ID
Local significance of the district:
Agriculture; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

agriculture architecture
The Snake River that runs through Idaho played a crucial role in the development of the state. The river was used to transport goods and supplies, and it was also used to generate hydroelectric power, which helped to fuel the state's growth and development.
Idaho random facts
Cassia County, Idaho, is located in the southern part of the state and was established on February 20, 1879. The county was named after the Cassia Creek, which flows through the area. Prior to European settlement, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, notably the Shoshone-Bannock tribes who utilized the area's abundant natural resources.

The first significant influx of settlers to the area occurred in the 1860s during the Oregon Trail migration. Many pioneers passing through Cassia County were attracted to the fertile land and the opportunities for ranching and farming. The area's mild climate and rich soil proved to be favorable for agricultural activities, including wheat and potato cultivation.

In the late 19th century, the construction of the Oregon Short Line Railroad and the Utah Northern Railroad brought further development and economic growth to Cassia County. The rail lines connected the region to major markets, facilitating the transportation of goods and attracting businesses and industries to the area. Several towns, including Albion and Burley, emerged as agricultural centers within the county.

Throughout the 20th century, agriculture remained the primary economic driver of Cassia County. The county's fertile land and favorable climate continued to attract farmers and ranchers who produced a variety of crops and livestock. Additionally, the development of irrigation systems, such as the Minidoka Dam project in the 1900s, further enhanced the agricultural productivity of the region. Today, Cassia County continues to be known for its agricultural industry, while also embracing other sectors such as manufacturing and tourism.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cassia County, Idaho.

  • 1871 - Cassia County established as a county in Idaho Territory
  • 1873 - First county seat established in Albion
  • 1919 - County seat moved to Burley after a vote
  • 1939-1942 - Minidoka internment camp operated in the county during World War II
  • 2010 - Cassia County population reaches 22,952