Idaho was once home to one of the largest sawmills in the world. The Potlatch Lumber Company, which was based in the town of Potlatch, produced more than 2 billion board feet of lumber between 1906 and 1956.
Teton County, ID is located in the southeastern part of the state, nestled in the Teton Mountain Range. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shoshone and Bannock tribes. European fur trappers and traders began to explore the area in the early 19th century, but settling in the region was initially limited due to its remote location.

In the late 1800s, the discovery of gold in nearby Yellowstone National Park led to an influx of prospectors to the area. Teton County was officially established in 1915, named after the Teton Mountain Range. The county's economy initially relied on mining, specifically gold mining, as well as logging and agriculture.

With the establishment of Grand Teton National Park in 1929, Teton County's economy began to shift towards tourism. The stunning beauty of the park, along with the nearby Jackson Hole ski resort, attracted visitors from all over the world. The tourism industry quickly became a major source of income for the county, supporting hotels, restaurants, and recreational activities.

In recent years, Teton County has seen significant growth and development, as more people recognize the area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The county has also become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Today, Teton County is a thriving community that balances a growing tourism industry with a commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Teton County, Idaho.

  • 1900-1904: Teton County is established on January 26, 1900.
  • 1910-1914: The county experiences a period of growth and development with the arrival of the railroad.
  • 1920-1924: Teton Village is founded as a small community near the Teton Range.
  • 1930-1934: The Great Depression causes significant economic hardship in the county.
  • 1940-1944: Teton County experiences an increase in population and agricultural production due to World War II.
  • 1950-1954: The county sees improvements in infrastructure and the establishment of schools and healthcare facilities.
  • 1960-1964: Grand Targhee Resort is developed, contributing to the growth of the tourism industry in the county.
  • 1970-1974: Teton County becomes a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
  • 1980-1984: The county experiences a boom in real estate and construction, leading to increased development.
  • 1990-1994: Environmental conservation efforts gain momentum in Teton County, focusing on protecting natural resources.
  • 2000-2004: Teton County becomes a popular location for retirees and vacation home owners.
  • 2010-2014: The county faces challenges related to affordable housing and balancing growth with environmental preservation.