ABOUT US
THE FOUNDING
The Blaine County Historical Museum opened its doors in 1964.
Leon Friedman and Lucille Friedman, children of pioneering Hailey merchant Simon Moses Friedman, donated the building to the City of Hailey for the sole purpose of a museum. In 1962, a board was formed to begin the process of establishing a museum to represent the colorful history of Blaine County.
Leon Friedman and Lucille Friedman
THE BUILDING
The building was built in 1882 and has quite a historic past in itself. Over the years, it served as a warehouse, a dance hall, opera house, Knights of Labor Hall, and an armory during the Spanish American War. It also held the 1889 Hailey High School graduation ceremonies, with 5 girls graduating.
The building was originally built of adobe brick, some of which are still visible through a clear panel on the inside of the museum. In recent years, the Museum renovated and restored the north and south walls for the structural integrity of the building.
THE ARTIFACTS
The Blaine County Historical Museum is proud to have a collection augmented with donated items from Blaine County’s past. At its formation in 1962, the BCHM Board began advertising in newspapers and on radio to solicit historic items connected to Blaine County. Citizens of the Wood River Valley responded by bringing treasures from their family possessions, creating a unique array of historic items. Every object, photo, and story is a piece of Blaine County’s special past, and the Museum is honored to be entrusted to their care.
If you have historic items, pictures, or stories from Blaine County that you would like to donate to the Museum, please visit the donation process page.
The Blaine County Historical Museum takes pride in serving as a trustee of the history of the area. It is the Museum’s mission to share that history, inspire, and educate current and future generations. Exposure to the history of the Blaine County is a special way to connect you to the community and inspire you to be a more involved citizen.
Our Team - The Board of Directors
The Board of BCHM is dedicated to the mission of the Museum and educating the public.
Board Officers
Bob MacLeod
President, BCHM
Expert player piano player. Leads the funniest museum tours, award-winning chili chef, makes the best chocolate chip cookies.
Joan Davies
Vice President, BCHM
Expert on local history. Honoree of the Esta Perpetua award, strongly involved in numerous historical societies.
Rebecca Cox
Director, BCHM
Master of research. Passionate about history, always ready to plan an fun event.
Kelli Young
Treasurer, BCHM
Radiates sunshine and warmth. Born and raised in Hailey, everyone seems to know Kelli’s smiling face.
Jane Rosen
Secretary, BCHM
Grant writing goddess, resourceful historic researcher. A heart for creating interactive learning experiences for children. Enthusiastic about contributing to our community.
Board Members
Rex Bradshaw
Melanie Dahl
Meghan Flanz
Denise Ford
Verla Goitiandea
Betty Grant
LOCATION
The Museum is located at 218 N Main Street in Hailey Idaho, in the center of the scenic Wood River Valley.
