National Register Listing

St. Mary's Episcopal Church

1st St., Emmett, ID
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Social History

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.

architecture social history
Idaho played a key role in the development of atomic energy. During World War II, the federal government established the Idaho National Laboratory in eastern Idaho, which was used to research and develop nuclear technology. Today, the lab is one of the leading research facilities in the world for nuclear energy and other forms of advanced technology.
Idaho random facts
Gem County, located in southwestern Idaho, holds a rich history that can be traced back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shoshone and Bannock. However, European settlers began arriving in the region during the 1860s, drawn by the allure of the recently discovered gold in the nearby Boise Basin.

The establishment of Gem County officially took place on March 15, 1915, when it was created from parts of Boise County. The county was aptly named after the scenic gemstones found in the area, including opals, garnets, and jasper. Early settlers primarily engaged in ranching, mining, and agriculture, utilizing the fertile soil to grow crops like corn, wheat, and fruit.

The county's development was solidified with the arrival of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in the early 20th century. This railway connected the region with major cities such as Boise and Nampa, boosting the local economy and enabling easier transportation of goods and people across Gem County.

Over time, Gem County expanded economically, diversifying beyond its agricultural and mining roots. Today, the county thrives as a popular tourist destination, offering numerous recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping. With its picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and close-knit communities, Gem County remains a treasured gem in the heart of Idaho.

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

  • 1862: Gold was discovered in the Boise Basin, leading to the settlement of Gem County.
  • 1863: The first post office in the county was established in the town of Placerville.
  • 1864: Gem County was officially organized and established on March 15.
  • 1888: Emmett became the county seat of Gem County.
  • 1933: Black Canyon Dam was completed, providing irrigation and flood control for the area.
  • 1964: The present-day Gem County Courthouse was constructed in Emmett.
  • 1996: A wildfire known as the "Blackwell Fire" burned over 27,000 acres in Gem County.
  • 2018: Gem County celebrated its 154th anniversary.