National Register Listing

Geertson, Lars, House

a.k.a. Herb Aldous House

SE of Salmon, Salmon, ID
Local significance of the building:
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.

architecture houses residential buildings
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.
Idaho random facts
Lemhi County, located in Idaho, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Shoshone and Bannock peoples, who relied on the land's abundant natural resources for their sustenance. In the early 1800s, European explorers and fur trappers, such as Lewis and Clark, made their way through this region, establishing contact with the native tribes.

In the mid-19th century, Lemhi County experienced a significant influx of settlers due to the discovery of gold. The Lemhi Valley Gold Rush attracted many prospectors, leading to the establishment of mining camps and towns. Salmon City, later renamed Salmon, became the county seat and a hub of economic activity.

During this time, conflicts between settlers and indigenous peoples arose. The Bannock War of 1878, which spread throughout the region, resulted in the loss of lives and heightened tensions between the two groups. Eventually, a treaty was signed, granting the Lemhi Shoshone a reservation.

Throughout the 20th century, Lemhi County continued to develop and diversify its economy. Agriculture, mining, and timber industries played significant roles. The region also became an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its pristine rivers, mountains, and wildlife.

Today, Lemhi County preserves its historical legacy while embracing modern progress. It serves as a gateway to the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and provides countless recreational opportunities. The county's rich history and natural beauty continue to attract visitors and showcase the enduring spirit of the region.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lemhi County, Idaho.

  • 1805 - Lewis and Clark Expedition pass through the Lemhi County area
  • 1866 - Lemhi City is established as a mining town
  • 1879 - Salmon City becomes the county seat of Lemhi County
  • 1910 - The Gilmore and Pittsburgh Railroad reaches Salmon City
  • 1912 - Salmon National Forest is established
  • 1934 - Lemhi Pass is dedicated as a national monument
  • 1950 - The completion of the Salmon Dam brings irrigation to the county
  • 1972 - Lemhi County Historical Society is founded
  • 1990 - The population of Lemhi County reaches its peak at 8,664
  • 2000 - Lemhi County celebrates its centennial