National Register Listing

Ritter, William M., House

a.k.a. 92

NE of Shoshone, Shoshone, ID
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

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
The first known human settlement in Idaho dates back more than 12,000 years. Archaeological evidence shows that early Native American tribes lived in the region, and artifacts from these settlements can be found in museums throughout the state.
Idaho random facts
Lincoln County, located in the southeastern part of Idaho, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlers arrived, the area was home to the Shoshone-Bannock tribes, who relied on hunting, gathering, and fishing for sustenance. The Lewis and Clark expedition passed through the region in 1805, increasing the presence of explorers and traders.

In the mid-1800s, fur trappers and gold seekers established a number of temporary settlements in the county. However, it was not until the construction of the Utah and Northern Railroad in the 1870s that the area began to see significant growth. The railroad brought settlers, merchants, and industries to the region, leading to the establishment of permanent towns like Shoshone and Richfield.

Agriculture also played a crucial role in the development of Lincoln County. Irrigation projects introduced in the late 1800s allowed for the cultivation of crops like wheat, potatoes, sugar beets, and alfalfa. The county quickly became known for its agricultural productivity and attracted many farmers who sought to make a living on the land.

Over the years, Lincoln County has witnessed various economic ups and downs. The mining industry boomed in the early 1900s, with several mines producing lead, zinc, silver, and phosphate. However, these mining operations declined by the mid-20th century. Today, the county's economy is diversified, with agriculture, manufacturing, and services being the primary sectors.

Throughout its history, Lincoln County has seen significant changes in its landscape, population, and economy. However, its ties to Native American heritage, exploration, and agriculture remain important aspects of its identity.

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

  • 1867: Lincoln County is established as a county in the Idaho Territory.
  • 1868: The county's first post office, named Shoshone, is established.
  • 1879: The county seat is relocated from Shoshone to Shoshone Falls.
  • 1890: Lincoln County becomes part of the newly-formed state of Idaho.
  • 1901: The county seat is moved back to Shoshone due to difficulties accessing Shoshone Falls during winter.
  • 1972: The world's largest open-pit phosphate mine opens in the county, known as the Conda Mine.
  • 1980: The Conda Mine is closed due to declining phosphate prices.
  • 2010: Lincoln County's population reaches its highest point at approximately 5,208 residents.