Twin Falls Bank and Trust Company Building
102 Main Ave. S, Twin Falls, ID Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
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.
In the late 19th century, the area was part of the Oregon Trail, a major transportation route for pioneers heading west during the westward expansion. As more settlers arrived, the potential for agricultural development took hold, leading to the establishment of towns and the rapid growth of the county. The completion of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1904 further stimulated growth and economic development in the area.
Twin Falls County was officially established on February 21, 1907, and named after the iconic Twin Falls of the Snake River, which were discovered and named by Ira Burton Perrine in 1869. The county's agricultural potential, particularly in irrigation farming, attracted many settlers who engaged in various agricultural activities, including the cultivation of sugar beets, wheat, and potatoes. This agricultural boom helped to shape the economy of the region and attract more people to the area.
Over the years, Twin Falls County has experienced both triumphs and challenges. The Great Depression in the 1930s brought about economic difficulties, but the county rebounded with the construction of the Shoshone Falls Dam and the subsequent development of hydroelectric power in the area. In recent decades, the county has continued to grow and diversify economically, with a focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
Today, Twin Falls County is a vibrant community with a mix of rural and urban areas. It offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including the famous Snake River Canyon and its stunning waterfalls, attracting visitors from near and far. With a resilient history and a promising future, Twin Falls County continues to be an important part of Idaho's heritage.
Twin Falls County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Twin Falls County, Idaho.
- 1864 - Twin Falls County established as part of Idaho Territory.
- 1878 - First permanent settlers arrive in the area.
- 1880 - Town of Twin Falls founded.
- 1904 - Twin Falls County officially organized.
- 1914 - Completion of Milner Dam, leading to increased agricultural development in the county.
- 1918 - Population of Twin Falls County reaches over 10,000.
- 1921 - Shoshone Falls Hydroelectric Plant begins operation, providing electricity to the region.
- 1933 - Construction of Perrine Memorial Bridge starts, connecting Twin Falls to the south side of the Snake River Canyon.
- 1934 - Perrine Bridge completed, becoming an iconic symbol of Twin Falls County.
- 1942-1945 - Japanese Americans forcibly relocated to internment camps during World War II, including individuals from Twin Falls County.
- 1959 - Completion of the Twin Falls Temple, the first LDS temple in Idaho.
- 1974 - Completion of the Thousand Springs Power Plant near Ritter Island.
- 2004 - Twin Falls County celebrates its centennial.
- 2016 - Construction begins on the new Twin Falls County Detention Facility.