Bingham County ID

Bingham County, located in the southeastern part of Idaho, offers a landscape characterized by its agricultural plains, part of the larger Snake River Plain, and is bordered by mountains that provide a picturesque backdrop. Established on January 13, 1885, from Oneida County, Bingham County was named in honor of Henry H. Bingham, a U.S. Congressman and Civil War veteran, reflecting the area’s historical connections to broader American history. Its creation was part of the westward expansion and settlement patterns encouraged by the U.S. government during that period. The county seat, Blackfoot, is known for the Idaho Potato Museum, a nod to the region’s significant role in potato farming. Bingham County’s economy has historically been dominated by agriculture, including potatoes, grains, and livestock, due to its fertile soil and favorable climate.

Bingham County

Bingham County, once the largest in Idaho, spans approximately 14,000 square miles and is characterized by its fertile Snake River Valley, conducive to agriculture. In 1893, the county’s size was reduced with the creation of Bannock and Fremont counties. Rich in resources and irrigation systems, the region supports diverse crops and livestock, while its mild climate prevents severe weather setbacks. Key towns include Blackfoot, the county seat, and Idaho Falls, both growing communities with robust educational and infrastructure systems, contributing to the county’s development.

Biography of Benjamin A. Jenne

Benjamin A. Jenne, born on October 22, 1855, in Poor Mans Gulch, California, is a notable figure in Bingham County, Idaho. He faced numerous challenges throughout his life but demonstrated perseverance. After various jobs, including as a sailor and lumberjack, he ventured into the hotel business, becoming well-known for establishments like the Grahel House. A Democrat, Jenne served as justice of the peace and was later appointed deputy sheriff. He married Kittie E. Sutor, with whom he has four children.

Biography of C. W. Wernicke

C. W. Wernicke, born on January 13, 1847, in Goldburg, Germany, immigrated to the United States at nineteen, seeking opportunities. He initially worked as a tinsmith in New York and Michigan before moving to Idaho, where he pioneered the hardware business in Shoshone. Elected County Treasurer of Lincoln County, he has served multiple terms due to his integrity and community involvement. A dedicated member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and a lifelong Republican, Wernicke is recognized for his contributions to local prosperity and governance.

Biography of Henry W. Curtis

Henry W. Curtis, born on August 9, 1854, in London, England, was a prominent citizen of Blackfoot, Idaho. After moving to the United States with his family in 1860, he became the first hardware merchant in Blackfoot in 1885, establishing a successful business through integrity and hard work. A dedicated public servant, he was twice elected county treasurer and involved in local organizations like the Masons and Odd Fellows. Curtis had two marriages, first to Luella Benson and later to Agnes E. Millen, both of whom contributed significantly to the community. He had three children and remained a respected figure in Blackfoot.

Biography of James M. Stevens

James M. Stevens, born on January 30, 1873, in Oneida County, Idaho, is recognized as a prominent native son of the state. Of Scotch-English descent, he was educated in Massachusetts and later moved to California, where he served in the U.S. Army during the Civil War. He became an accomplished farmer, with a large ranch, and was actively involved in politics as a lifelong Republican. Stevens practiced law after graduating from Leland Stanford University, becoming a respected member of the firm Detrich, Chalmers & Stevens in Blackfoot.

Biography of George H. Storer

George H. Storer, born on February 17, 1860, in England, immigrated to America with his family in 1871. After settling in Utah, he moved to Idaho in 1879 and cultivated a successful business career, ultimately becoming state treasurer in 1896. Known for his integrity and executive acumen, Storer contributed significantly to local politics as a Democratic leader and served in various public offices, including mayor and justice of the peace. He’s also an esteemed Mason and is recognized for his community involvement and support for his family.

Biography of N. P. Nielson

N. P. Nielson, born in Denmark on September 17, 1852, immigrated to the United States in 1868. Settling in Utah, he initially worked as a hotel clerk before moving to Pocatello, Idaho, in 1885. He became a constable and later established a successful grocery store in 1888, notable for his integrity and industry. Nielson married Hattie Jackson in 1881, and they had nine children. Currently serving as Bannock County treasurer, he is recognized for his capable management, reflecting his longstanding commitment to public service and business.

Biography of Hon. George B. Rogers

Hon. George B. Rogers, born February 22, 1842, in Wisconsin, is a significant figure in Idaho’s history. After a challenging upbringing on a farm, he worked in various mining roles across the West before transitioning to successful freighting and stock-raising enterprises. He played a crucial role in the growth of Blackfoot, serving in the Idaho State Senate and as a county commissioner. Appointed by President McKinley as the receiver of the U.S. land office, Rogers continues to be an influential community leader. He married Elizabeth Toombs and they have four children.

Biography of Daniel H. Clyne

Daniel H. Clyne, born in 1857 in Indiana, is a prominent figure in Idaho, known for his engaging personality and ability to forge strong connections. Raised in Nebraska and starting his career as a cowboy, he eventually opened a successful livery stable in Idaho Falls. A lifelong Republican, Clyne served as town marshal before being elected sheriff of Bingham County in 1898. Married to Mary Watson, they have seven children. His personal warmth and professional dedication have significantly contributed to his achievements.

Biography of John C. Millick

John C. Millick, born on August 4, 1854, in Dodge County, Wisconsin, is a prominent businessman in Blackfoot, Idaho, where he owns a steam roller-process flouring mill. Of German descent, he began working at a young age after losing his mother. Millick’s career progressed through farming, mining, and retail, ultimately leading to significant success in the flour milling industry. He is married to Gertrude Cleeg and resides in an elegant home built in 1897. Millick is a dedicated Republican but not actively involved in politics.

Biography of Robert V. Cozier

Hon. Robert V. Cozier, a significant legal and political figure from Idaho, was born on October 20, 1867, in Wapakoneta, Ohio. A graduate of Simpson College, he became a prominent attorney after settling in Idaho in 1891. Cozier’s contributions to legislation and public welfare are noted, especially during his tenure as a member of the state assembly and as Speaker of the House. Appointed United States attorney by President McKinley in 1897, he is recognized for his legal acumen and commitment to the Republican Party. Cozier is a family man, married to Lena M. Fife, with three children.

Biography of William H. Stufflebeam

William Herman Stufflebeam, a well-respected figure in Idaho, is the proprietor of the Blackfoot Hotel, known for his popularity and trustworthiness. Born in New York, his family has deep roots in American history, with ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War. He moved to Idaho with his family in 1883, establishing a successful stock ranch. Educated in New York, he had a diverse career, including managing the Blackfoot Hotel and serving in various financial roles. He is also an active Democrat and an Elk. Stufflebeam married Carrie M. Keith in 1892.

Biography of Frank Sigel Dietrich

Frank Sigel Dietrich, born January 23, 1863, near Ottawa, Kansas, came from German immigrant parents. After his father’s death when Frank was an infant, his mother ensured his education, leading him to graduate from Brown University in 1887. In 1891, Dietrich began practicing law in Idaho, eventually leading a successful law firm and serving as attorney for the Oregon Short Line Railroad. A committed Republican, he ran for district judge in 1898. Dietrich is married to Martha Behle, and they have a daughter, Margaret Kathryn.

Biography of W. H. Puckett

W. H. Puckett, born on August 8, 1869, in Ballard County, Kentucky, is a distinguished young attorney at the law firm of Hawley Puckett. He received his education from local schools, Baptist College, and Denver Business College, before earning a Bachelor of Law from Washington and Lee University. After arriving in Idaho in 1891, he quickly established a successful legal career. Active in the community, Puckett is a Mason and a member of the B.P.O.E., recognized for his character and ambition in the legal field.

Biography of Judge Frederick S. Stevens

Judge Frederick S. Stevens, born on August 7, 1848, in Lynn, Massachusetts, has had a remarkable life in Bingham County, Idaho, where he is the longest-resident citizen. A soldier in the Civil War, he transitioned to pioneer life, establishing a successful farm and timber claim. Stevens served as postmaster and was elected probate judge three times, earning respect for his fair administration. He married Finetta Garrett and raised five children, contributing significantly to his community and exemplifying the pioneer spirit in Idaho.

Biography of Henry Dunn

Henry Dunn, born in Liverpool, England in 1840, emigrated to Canada as a child and later moved to the United States. Arriving in Idaho in 1864, he became a prominent stockman and pioneer. Dunn operated a ferry and later a trading post before establishing a successful cattle ranch in Blackfoot. A lifelong Democrat, he focused on business rather than politics. Married in 1870, he had five children and significantly contributed to the development of his community, embodying the spirit of early western pioneers.

Biography of William Kirkpatrick

William Kirkpatrick, a prominent pioneer farmer in Blackfoot, Idaho, was born on December 3, 1842, in Virginia. A Civil War veteran, he fought for the Confederacy and participated in several significant battles, sustaining an injury yet remaining with his unit. In 1873, he settled in Idaho, where he cultivated his land and raised livestock. An influential member of the Democratic Party, he served as deputy sheriff in 1878. Married to Ann Geret, they had six children and were active in their community and church.

Biography of Jesse K. Dubois, M. D.

Dr. Jesse K. Dubois, born on November 16, 1848, in Springfield, Illinois, is a prominent physician in Boise and Idaho. Of French descent, he comes from a distinguished family, with his father, a lawyer and associate of Abraham Lincoln, serving as the Illinois state auditor. After graduating from Yale and a medical college in St. Louis, Dr. Dubois practiced in Springfield before relocating to Idaho in 1878. He married Anna Curtis in 1884 and has one daughter, Susie. An esteemed Mason, he is well-respected in his community.

Biography of Samuel J. Rich

Samuel J. Rich, born on May 1, 1860, in Centerville, Utah, is a distinguished lawyer and businessman in Idaho Falls. His parents were early Utah pioneers who moved to Bear Lake County, Idaho, in 1864. After earning a law degree, he served as county attorney in both Bear Lake and Cache Counties. Rich moved to Idaho in 1899 and became a receiver for the Idaho Canal Company, known for its extensive canal system. He is an influential Democrat, married to Anna Page, with six children.