Historical Markers in
Clearwater County, Idaho

1804-1806 Corps of Discovery Ahsakha Village Site Boom & Chinese of Pierce Canal Gulch Canoe Building Site Canoe Camp Chinese Cemetery Chinese Hanging Clearwater River Log Drives Corps of Discovery Dworshak Dam First Contact Between Two Cultures First Contact Between Two Cultures Fraser Fraser Park Gold Discovered Gold Rush Historic Byway Indian Fishing Rock Indian Houses Lenore Tram Lewis and Clark Lewis and Clark Murder & Vigilantes Navigating the Clearwater Oro Fino City Orofino: A Fine Place Pierce Courthouse Pierce Courthouse Pierce Gold Rush Pit House Village River Crossing Over Time Routes Through the Region Slaterville Weippe Prairie Weippe Prairie Welcome to Canoe Camp "Handsome Small Prairie"
Available on Amazon
Idaho Highway Historical Marker Guide Spiral-bound – January 1, 1990
Idaho Highway Historical Marker Guide

Idaho is what America was.
Bernard DeVoto in The Hour: A Cocktail Manifesto
Established on February 27, 1911, Clearwater County is located in the northern region of the state of Idaho, USA. Before the arrival of non-native settlers, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Nez Perce and Coeur d'Alene. European explorers, trappers, and fur traders began to venture into the region during the early 19th century.

The discovery of gold in the Clearwater River in 1860 led to a significant influx of miners, triggering the Idaho Gold Rush. The town of Pierce, now the county seat, became a strategic center for mining activities. The region experienced both booms and busts as gold deposits were depleted and new mining opportunities arose throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

In the late 19th century, timber became a prominent industry in Clearwater County. The vast mountainous forests provided an abundance of resources, attracting logging companies to the area. Lumber mills began operating, contributing to the county's economic growth and development. The logging industry remains an important part of Clearwater County's economy to this day.

Clearwater County witnessed the arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century. The completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad provided a more efficient means of transportation for both people and resources, further stimulating economic activities and allowing for easier access to the county's natural resources.

With its rich mining, logging, and railroad history, Clearwater County offers a glimpse into Idaho's vibrant past. Today, it is known for its stunning natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a blend of urban and rural communities that continue to thrive amidst its historical backdrop.

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

  • 1902: Clearwater County is established on February 27 as a part of Shoshone County.
  • 1911: Clearwater County becomes an independent county on January 24.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression hits, leading to a decline in mining activity in the county.
  • 1940s: World War II brings economic recovery with the demand for resources.
  • 1950s: The construction of Dworshak Dam on the North Fork of the Clearwater River begins.
  • 1973: Dworshak Dam is completed, becoming the tallest straight-axis concrete dam in the Western Hemisphere.
  • 1980s: The decline of the timber industry impacts the county's economy.
  • 1994: The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act designates parts of the Lochsa and Selway rivers within the county.
  • 2000s: Efforts to diversify the economy include promoting tourism and outdoor activities.
  • 2018: Clearwater County celebrates its centennial.