Priest River High School

a.k.a. Priest River Junior High School

1020 W. Albeni Hwy., Priest River, ID
Local significance of the building:
Education; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

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.

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Idaho's name is derived from the Native American word "Ee-da-ho" which means "Gem of the Mountains." This name was suggested by a local lobbyist named George M. Willing, and it was officially adopted as the state's name in 1863.
Bonner County, located in northern Idaho, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The region was first inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Kalispel and Selkirk peoples, who lived off the area's natural resources such as fish, game, and berries. European explorers and fur traders began to venture into the area in the early 19th century, establishing trading posts and hunting grounds.

In the mid-1800s, the region underwent significant changes with the arrival of settlers and the development of mining and logging industries. The discovery of gold in the 1860s led to a population boom as prospectors flocked to the area in search of riches. Timber became another important industry, with vast forests providing ample resources for lumber production. The establishment of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 1800s further facilitated economic growth and transportation in the region.

Bonner County saw continued development in the 20th century, with the establishment of towns and infrastructure. Sandpoint, the largest city in the county, grew as a result of the railroad and became a hub for transportation and trade. The region also gained prominence as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with its picturesque landscapes, pristine lakes, and recreational opportunities.

Today, Bonner County is known for its natural beauty, tourism, and outdoor recreational activities. The area boasts numerous parks, wilderness areas, and ski resorts, attracting visitors from around the world. Agriculture, logging, and tourism are the main industries, providing economic stability for the residents. The county's history continues to be an important aspect of its identity, with numerous historical sites and museums preserving and showcasing the region's heritage for future generations to appreciate.

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

  • 1809: David Thompson, a fur trapper and explorer, arrives in the area that would later become Bonner County.
  • 1846: The United States and Great Britain sign the Oregon Treaty, establishing the boundary between the two nations at the 49th parallel, which includes the area of Bonner County.
  • 1864: Gold is discovered in the area, leading to a rush of prospectors and the establishment of mining camps.
  • 1875: The area is officially organized as Bonner County, named after Edwin L. Bonner, a ferry operator on the Pend Oreille River.
  • 1907: The town of Sandpoint is incorporated.
  • 1916: Schweitzer Mountain Resort, a popular ski resort, opens in Bonner County.
  • 1933: The Great Northern Railway introduces the Hiawatha passenger train route, attracting tourists to the region.
  • 1972: The Idaho Forest Practices Act is passed, aimed at promoting sustainable forest management in Bonner County.
  • 1983: The Hope-Clark Fork bridge, connecting Bonner County to Montana, is completed.
  • 2003: Bonner County Commissioners pass an ordinance declaring the county a "sanctuary for the unborn," prohibiting abortion within county limits.