Island Park Land and Cattle Company Home Ranch
a.k.a. Railroad Ranch;Harriman State Park of Idaho
US 20, approximately 1 mi. SW of Island Park, Island Park, ID Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.
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.
The town of Wallace, Idaho, was once known as the "silver capital of the world." During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the town was a major producer of silver, and it was home to more than 5,000 people at its peak. Today, Wallace is a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts, and it's known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
In 1863, Fremont County was established as one of the five original counties of the Idaho Territory. The county was named after the famed explorer and military officer, John C. Fremont. At that time, the main economic activity in the area was fur trading, as the county was strategically located near major fur trapping areas. However, the discovery of gold in the Salmon River and Lemhi Valley in the 1860s brought a rush of prospectors to the region, leading to a sharp increase in population.
Over the next few decades, mining became the dominant industry in Fremont County, with gold, silver, and other minerals being extracted from the hills and mountains. The mining boom brought not only wealth but also a surge in settlement and infrastructural development. Towns such as St. Anthony and Ashton grew rapidly as trading posts, support centers, and transportation hubs. The construction of railroads further facilitated the growth of the mining industry and linked Fremont County to larger markets.
In the early 20th century, the mining industry began to decline, causing a shift in the county's economy. Agriculture and tourism emerged as the new primary economic drivers. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate made it suitable for farming, particularly potato cultivation. Today, Fremont County continues to be an important agricultural region, known for its production of potatoes, grains, livestock, and dairy products. Additionally, the county's scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fremont County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Fremont County, Idaho.
- Fremont County, ID was established in 1893.
- In 1917, the Yellowstone National Park boundary was adjusted, resulting in the inclusion of the southwest portion of Fremont County.
- In the 1930s, the Teton Dam was constructed on the Teton River in Fremont County.
- In 1976, the Teton Dam failed, resulting in a catastrophic flood that affected Fremont County and the surrounding areas.
- Throughout the late 20th century, Fremont County underwent significant agricultural development, with the expansion of potato farming and the introduction of large-scale dairy operations.
- In 2000, the Teton Geotourism Center was opened in Driggs, providing educational information about the geology and natural history of the region.
- In recent years, Fremont County has seen a growth in tourism, particularly due to its proximity to Yellowstone National Park and the Teton Mountains.