Albion State Normal School

Historical marker location:
Albion, Idaho
( Marker is at the intersection of State Highway 77 and East Miller Hall Court, on the left when traveling north on State Highway 77.)

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In the late 1800s, Idaho experienced a gold rush that attracted thousands of people to the state in search of riches. One of the most famous mining towns was Custer, which was home to more than 15,000 people at its peak but was eventually abandoned after the gold ran out.
Cassia County, Idaho, is located in the southern part of the state and was established on February 20, 1879. The county was named after the Cassia Creek, which flows through the area. Prior to European settlement, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, notably the Shoshone-Bannock tribes who utilized the area's abundant natural resources.

The first significant influx of settlers to the area occurred in the 1860s during the Oregon Trail migration. Many pioneers passing through Cassia County were attracted to the fertile land and the opportunities for ranching and farming. The area's mild climate and rich soil proved to be favorable for agricultural activities, including wheat and potato cultivation.

In the late 19th century, the construction of the Oregon Short Line Railroad and the Utah Northern Railroad brought further development and economic growth to Cassia County. The rail lines connected the region to major markets, facilitating the transportation of goods and attracting businesses and industries to the area. Several towns, including Albion and Burley, emerged as agricultural centers within the county.

Throughout the 20th century, agriculture remained the primary economic driver of Cassia County. The county's fertile land and favorable climate continued to attract farmers and ranchers who produced a variety of crops and livestock. Additionally, the development of irrigation systems, such as the Minidoka Dam project in the 1900s, further enhanced the agricultural productivity of the region. Today, Cassia County continues to be known for its agricultural industry, while also embracing other sectors such as manufacturing and tourism.

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

  • 1871 - Cassia County established as a county in Idaho Territory
  • 1873 - First county seat established in Albion
  • 1919 - County seat moved to Burley after a vote
  • 1939-1942 - Minidoka internment camp operated in the county during World War II
  • 2010 - Cassia County population reaches 22,952