(EMAILWIRE.COM, October 27, 2011 ) BOISE, Idaho- Nearly 150 years ago the gold rush came to the Boise Basin and with it the first chapter of Idaho history. Gold was discovered in 1862 and the crowds soon followed, filling the town of Idaho City with breweries, bakeries, bowling alleys, pool halls, opera and theater houses, and more than their share of saloons. After over $250 million worth of gold was found, the rush petered out. The signs of the rush can still be found in and around Idaho City, from the carved wooden walls of the old jail to the old post office which later became the Boise Basin Museum. Museum. Pioneer Cemetery has more than a few ghosts from the losing end of a duel and you may hear the laughter of children at the old schoolhouse. The oldest Masonic Temple west of the Mississippi was built here in 1865 and just down the road is the MinerÂ’s Exchange, a former saloon where miners could exchange gold dust for currency or a cold drink. There are many more historical sites in Southwest Idaho will transport travelers back to the days of the wild west.
In celebration of the gold rushÂ’s 150th anniversary in 2012, there are sure to be numerous events and festivities in Idaho City and Boise Basin. Learn more at the Idaho City Chamber of Commerce and plan to visit this fascinating, historical town during the celebrations.
Media Contact: Amy Shadell, Amy@adventuremedianews.com, www.visitsouthwestidaho.org, Photos Available. View Southwest Idaho Travel Association media kit.
