BLAINE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
“We are behind the times”
BLAINE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM
“We are Behind the Times”
Blaine County, Idaho, covers over 2,600 square miles and includes the well-known towns of Sun Valley, Ketchum, Hailey, Bellevue, and Carey.
The area has a rich cultural history spanning early Native American history, mining, sheepherding, and recreation, and it has become a popular tourist destination for avid outdoors enthusiasts.
“In going over the remoter sections of the State today...one cannot help but marvel at the obstacles that had to be overcome in such a trackless wilderness of mountains, canyons and streams. So far removed from a base of supplies, one can not help but revere the memory of the early pioneers who blazed these trails, and the iron nerve they must have displayed in doing it.”
The Blaine County Historical Museum keeps pioneer history alive….these are their stories. Visitors to the Museum can explore Blaine County’s past in the Wood River Valley, learn of early settlers, research family histories, and view vignettes of mines, schools, ranches, famous literary personalities, period fashions, and historic political memorabilia.
Fun Facts!
Did You Know…
An Elephant Loose in Hailey
An elephant named Samson rampaged through Hailey in 1884 during a circus parade. In an attempt to prevent risk to people and property, Samson sustained various shots from local sportsmen. While Samson survived, according to local legend, it was reported that, for more than two weeks after the incident, Samson could only drink a small amount of water before it would all leak out.
Frank, the Museum’s 100-Year-Old Trophy Fish
The museum’s 11.3 pound trout, caught in 1912, is having his DNA studied by biologists to see who he might be related to. Possibly Charlie the Tuna? Billy the Bass?
The Little Saloon Called The Snug
In 1898, a small saloon called the Snug Bar opened on Croy Street in the bustling town of Hailey. This little tavern would become a hub for the town, not only as a well-frequented watering hole, but eventually also as an intersection of history….
Find out more about our valley’s history!
Take a Look
Into Our Valley’s Past
Who are we?
Learn more about who we are, the team behind the museum and what we have in store for the future!
Destruction of Hailey main street fire
Early outdoor recreation in the Wood River Valley
Main Street Hailey, Idaho
Clearing the railroad tracks in winter
Hailey sports team, 1920s
One hour catch on the Wood River
Stage coach stop in Bellevue, Idaho
Dog sledding on Main Street in Hailey, 1930s
Bullion Block, current location of Luke's Pharmacy in Hailey, Idaho
School bell from Hailey School building in Old Hailey
Pipe collection from Snug Bar
Native American artifacts
Native American beadwork
This website design was supported in part by the Idaho State Historical Society.
Contact us.
If you have any questions, please reach out!