Blaine County ID

Prominent Cities and Towns of the State

Boise, Idaho’s capital, boasts a rich history that began with the arrival of French Canadian explorers in 1834, who named the area for its scenic woods. Established in 1863 alongside Fort Boise, the city grew steadily, supported by agriculture, mining, and a healthy climate. By the late 19th century, Boise had developed into a thriving center of commerce and education, featuring state institutions and a diverse population benefiting from local resources. It emerged quietly yet robustly, distinguishing itself as the heart of Idaho’s progress and prosperity.

The Alturas Senator Mining Company

The Alturas Senator Mining Company operates ten claims in Galena, Blaine County, Idaho, notably the Senate and Gladwater. Once profitable, mining ceased due to falling silver prices, leading to the dismantling of the smelter. Plans for development are anticipated in 1899. The company is backed by affluent New Yorkers, including President Lewis Edwards and Dr. Barron of Carpenter Steel Works. Additionally, the Ashland Group Mining Company holds claims in Muldoon, while the Cansada-Ledlie Company is developing properties near Ketchum.

The Ontario Group Of Mines

The Ontario Group of Mines, located near Ketchum, Idaho, is currently owned by Senator Michael Carey. Discovered in 1880 by John Boyle, these mines produce galena ore, rich in silver and lead. The veins are well-structured, averaging widths of three to three and a half feet, with notable yields. Significant wealth has been extracted, totaling half a million dollars, particularly from the Ontario and Star mines. A reliable concentrating mill supports operations, suggesting continued profitability for the future.

The Red Cloud Group Of Mines

The Red Cloud Group of Mines, located on Deer Creek in Blaine County, Idaho, was discovered in 1880 by Orin Porter and others. Acquired in 1889 by Lyttleton Price and others, it became productive, yielding significant dividends. However, operations ceased around 1897 due to challenging geology and low market prices. Currently, the mines, now resumed under lease, show potential as a valuable asset in Idaho’s mining landscape, with recent developments indicating a promising ore body.

The Philadelphia & Idaho Mining & Smelting Company

The Philadelphia & Idaho Mining & Smelting Company, established in 1882, initially operated smelters in Muldoon before moving to Ketchum due to the higher-grade ores there. The company acquired several significant mines, including the North Star and Silver Star, and upgraded their facilities to enhance productivity. However, operational challenges arose, particularly with a poorly designed mill. Despite setbacks, the North Star mine remained productive, while the Silver Star held potential with numerous claims. Ultimately, the smelters closed in the early 1890s, and operations transitioned to leasing the mines.

Biography of James W. Ballantine

James W. Ballantine, born on February 15, 1839, in Pennsylvania, exemplifies the mercantile spirit of the Wood River Valley. The son of Scottish immigrants, he served valiantly in the Civil War, rising to the rank of major due to his commendable service. After the war, he transitioned to the oil refining industry before moving to Idaho to manage mining operations. A prominent businessman and member of the local legislature, Ballantine was influential in the Populist Party and engaged in various successful ventures, maintaining a strong community presence.

Biography of Homer G. Patterson

Homer G. Patterson, born on October 4, 1862, in Indiana, is a prominent dentist and legislator in Idaho, representing Blaine County. With a strong background in both the practice and business of dentistry, he has built a successful career in Hailey. Educated under Dr. J. B. Hatton and Dr. Wise, he opened his own practice in Bellevue before moving to Hailey in 1896. A family man, he and his wife, Nettie, have five children. Patterson has also engaged in mining and served on the state dental board, contributing to Idaho’s legislative processes.

Biography of Samuel Strickler

Samuel Strickler, born in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania in 1832, has been a pivotal figure in Idaho’s pioneer history for over thirty-six years. After moving west, he engaged in various ventures, including farming, mining, and freighting across the northwest. Strickler opened stores in Idaho City and Boise, frequently experiencing the challenges of pioneer life, including encounters with Native Americans. Now residing in Bellevue, he is a recognized and influential citizen, actively involved in mining and property development, and has never married. His story reflects the resilience and determination of early settlers in the region.

Biography of Thomas T. Redsull

Thomas T. Redsull, born in Kent, England, on November 15, 1827, became a pioneer of the Pacific Northwest after arriving in California in 1838. At eleven, he began an apprenticeship with the Hudson’s Bay Company. He later settled in Oregon and was a pilot on the Columbia River. Redsull was instrumental during the mining boom in Idaho, served in the Cayuse War, and participated in protecting settlers from Indian attacks. A prominent figure in Bellevue, he served as justice of the peace and probate judge, contributing significantly to the region’s development.

Biography of Neal J. Sharp

Neal J. Sharp, born July 14, 1833, in Fulton County, Illinois, was a notable lawyer and military officer. He descended from a lineage of patriots, including a Revolutionary War soldier. Admitted to the bar in 1857, he served as a second lieutenant in the First Nebraska Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, achieving rank and recognition for his service. A successful attorney and prominent figure in mining, he served as register of the land office in Hailey, earning respect in his community and among Republicans. Sharp’s legacy includes his influence in local governance and social organizations.

Biography of John Hailey

John Hailey, a prominent pioneer and statesman of Idaho, was born on August 29, 1835, in Tennessee. He moved to Idaho in the 1860s, where he built a successful stagecoach and freight business, eventually serving as a delegate to Congress. Hailey played a crucial role in the development of Idaho and was honored with the naming of Hailey, Idaho, after him. A lifelong Democrat, he also engaged in ranching and mining, while raising eight children. Hailey remains a respected figure in Idaho’s history.

Biography of James H. Hawley

James H. Hawley, born in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1847, emerged as a significant figure in Idaho’s political, commercial, and legal spheres. His extensive career included serving as a member of the territorial legislature, district attorney, and United States district attorney. A noted Democratic advocate, he played a crucial role in Idaho politics and mining law, gaining prominence as one of the region’s leading criminal lawyers. Hawley’s dedication to public service and legal excellence significantly influenced Idaho’s development and political landscape.

Biography of Newell Jonathan Brown, M. D.

Dr. Newell Jonathan Brown, born March 10, 1854, in Stanstead, Canada, has been a prominent family physician in Hailey since 1883. A graduate of McGill University and Dartmouth College, he initially practiced in Iowa before relocating for health reasons. Renowned for his dedication to the community, he has significantly contributed to local welfare and holds mining interests. Active in several medical and fraternal organizations, Dr. Brown is well-respected and has a strong social presence, supported by his wife, Celia, and their four sons.

Biography of Isaac N. Sullivan

Isaac N. Sullivan, born on November 3, 1848, in Iowa, served as Idaho’s first chief justice, significantly shaping the state’s jurisprudence. A distinguished lawyer, he was recognized for his analytical mind and commitment to integrity. After being elected as a justice in 1890, he held the chief justice position multiple times. A lifelong Republican with interests in farming and mining, Sullivan was married and had two sons who followed his legal path. His quiet demeanor and unwavering ethical standards have made him a respected figure in Idaho’s history.

Biography of Nathan C. Delano

Nathan C. Delano, a prominent merchant in Bellevue, Idaho, has had a long and successful business career since moving to the area. Born in Allegany County, New York, on October 31, 1852, he has French-Huguenot and English ancestry. Delano established a general mercantile store in 1882 after various business ventures, including farming and lumber. Active in local politics, he has held multiple positions, including treasurer and assessor of Blaine County. He is also involved in community organizations and has valuable mining interests in Nevada. Delano has been married twice and has two daughters.

Biography of James D. McCurdy, M. D.

Dr. James D. McCurdy, born in Kentucky in 1820, is a prominent figure in Idaho’s history, embodying the perseverance and determination characteristic of his Scotch ancestry. After earning his M.D. from the University of New York, he practiced medicine in Oregon during the cholera outbreak of 1852 and served as surgeon-general during the Rogue River conflict. Following various successful ventures in medicine and mining, he settled in Bellevue, Idaho, where he remains an active participant in community and business life, advocating for temperance and Masonic values.

Biography of Julius S. Waters

Julius S. Waters, born in Indiana in 1838, exemplified the virtues of self-reliance and determination throughout his life. Orphaned young, he worked various jobs to fund his education and eventually pursued a legal career, becoming a prominent attorney and political figure. He was actively involved in the abolitionist movement and helped establish the Republican Party in Kansas. Throughout his career, Waters held multiple public offices, including county attorney and presidential elector, gaining respect for his legal expertise and commitment to public service in Idaho.

Biographical Sketch of Knox Taylor

Knox Taylor, born in Highbridge, New Jersey, on October 19, 1873, is a prominent figure in mining and metallurgy. He graduated from the College of New Jersey in 1895 and subsequently moved to New Mexico to pursue a mining career. In 1896, he settled in Ketchum, Idaho, where he manages significant mining interests. A skilled expert in his field, Taylor is noted for his sociable nature and enthusiasm for sports, having recently hunted deer and bear in the region.

Biography of Hon. Michael Carey

Hon. Michael Carey, born December 12, 1844, in Ireland, immigrated to the U.S. in 1850 with his family. He worked as a miner in Michigan before moving to California and then Idaho, where he managed and operated several successful mines, becoming a prominent mine-owner. A member of the Idaho state senate elected in 1898 as a Populist, Carey is known for his commitment to public service and effective mining practices. He married Mary Lowery in 1899 and continues to impact Idaho’s mining industry.