Coeur d'Alene Idaho

Historical Notes on the Work of the Catholic Church in Idaho

The Catholic Church has played a pivotal role in Idaho’s early history, with its missionaries arriving before settlers. Notably, Father De Smet initiated outreach to the Coeur d’Alene Indians in 1842, establishing the foundational Catholic missions in the region. The Most Rev. F. N. Blanchet, alongside others, worked tirelessly to spread the faith and establish churches despite challenges. Over the years, the Catholic community grew, with key figures like Bishop Glorieux leading significant advancements in church infrastructure and education, fostering a lasting legacy in Idaho.

Discovery Of Gold in Idaho

Gold was first discovered in Idaho in 1852 along the Pend d’Oreille River by a French Canadian. Significant finds continued with General Lander and Captain John Mullan, who noted the presence of gold during explorations. In 1860, the Nez Perce Indian legend led to the Oro Fino excitement. By the early 1860s, gold rushes in various regions, including Florence and Boise Basin, resulted in substantial mining developments and population growth, despite obstacles like rough terrain and conflicts with Native Americans.

The Standard Group Of Mineral Claims

The Standard group of mineral claims includes several patented lode claims in the Coeur d’Alene silver-lead mineral belt in Idaho, initially located in 1885. Acquired by the Standard Mining Company in 1891, the claims have been consistently productive, generating significant dividends and extensive tunneling operations. The ore, primarily silver-lead, is processed at a nearby concentrator. By 1899, the company had shipped over 68,000 tons of concentrates, yielding considerable profits, while maintaining a robust management and operational structure.

The Lead Belt Of The Coeur d’Alenes

Lead was first discovered in the Coeur d’Alenes mining district of Idaho in 1884, with significant mines like the Tiger and Bunker Hill Sullivan being established shortly after. The region, initially difficult to access, has evolved into a major lead-producing area, contributing substantially to U.S. output. The district comprises several areas with varying ore characteristics, and production has increased steadily. Despite facing challenges, including labor disputes, the camp shows signs of prosperity and future growth, supported by robust mining operations and shipping infrastructure.

The Coeur d’Alene Mining District

The Coeur d’Alene Mining District, initially noted for gold discoveries in the 1880s, rapidly evolved into a prominent lead and silver mining region. By 1884, bustling towns like Eagle City and Murray emerged to support thousands of prospectors, leading to significant quartz lode discoveries. Development continued through new mining operations and the establishment of vital transportation routes, promoting ongoing mineral extraction. By the late 1890s, the district was a major contributor to the nation’s lead and silver output, employing over two thousand workers and bolstering the local economy.

Biography of Robert E. McFarland

Robert E. McFarland, born on November 21, 1857, in Missouri, distinguished himself as Idaho’s attorney general through his adept legal abilities and dedication to public service. A member of a notable family with ancestral ties to early American history, he was educated at Central College and studied law under prominent figures before beginning his legal career in New Mexico. He moved to Idaho in 1894, engaged in diverse legal roles, and became renowned for his expertise in criminal law. McFarland, a Democrat, married Marie Pendy and had three children.

Biography of V. W. Sander

V. W. Sander, born February 4, 1857, in Germany and immigrated to the U.S. in 1860, rose to prominence in Idaho’s mercantile industry. He started his career as a clerk in Muscatine, Iowa, before moving to California and then Washington. In 1880, he settled in Coeur d’Alene, where he established a successful general store and co-founded the Idaho Mercantile Company in 1895, becoming its president. Married to Lulu Lohmann, he has four children and is active in the Knight of Pythias and Republican politics without seeking office.

Biography of James H. Harte

James H. Harte, born on July 25, 1854, in Connecticut, became a notable real estate and insurance agent in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He began his career as a clerk in a dry goods store before serving five years in the U.S. Army. After his military service, he worked as a bookkeeper at Fort Spokane and entered the real estate business in 1888. Harte married Amelia R. Brooks in 1885, and they have one daughter, Margaret. An active member of the Republican Party and the Knights of Pythias, he was highly regarded in his community.

Biography of John B. Goode

The post highlights the post-Civil War integration between Northern and Southern citizens, fostering mutual admiration. John B. Goode, born in Virginia in 1864, is noted for his significant contributions to both law and politics. Following his education, he practiced law, served in the U.S. Department of Justice, and was appointed to various governmental roles, including chairman of the U.S. Mineral Land Commission in Idaho. Goode also engaged in educational initiatives and local government, ultimately becoming Kootenai County’s elected county attorney. He married Leila S. Symington and had four children.

Carlson, Mardella Lee – Obituary

Mardella Lee Carlson, age 56, passed away on October 28 at Kootenai Medical Center. Born on February 8, 1950, in La Grande, she grew up on a family farm and participated in 4-H and Girl Scouts. Mardella graduated from La Grande High School in 1969 and lived in group homes throughout her life due to special needs linked to an inoperable brain tumor diagnosed in 1996. She is survived by her mother, siblings, nieces, and nephews, with a memorial service set for Friday at La Grande Nazarene Church.

McMillen, Carl Richard – Obituary

Carl Richard McMillen, 71, of Spirit Lake, Idaho, and formerly of La Grande, passed away on April 7 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Born on June 26, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Carl served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. He had a successful career as a licensed land surveyor, founding McMillen Land Surveying in Clark Fork, Idaho. Carl was also an entrepreneur, owning several local businesses. He is survived by numerous family members and was preceded in death by several close relatives.

Pearson, Leona – Obituary

Leona June Pearson, 75, of La Grande, passed away at home on October 8, 2009, surrounded by family. Born on July 28, 1934, in Worley, Idaho, she was married to Garnet Black and later to Benjamin F. Pearson. Leona had a varied career, working in several restaurants and owning a boutique, and retired as a cook at the Union County Jail in 1999. An avid bowler and devoted grandmother, she is survived by numerous children, grandchildren, and siblings.

Kinkade, Mabel A. Olson – Obituary

Mabel Kinkade, aged 86, passed away on November 10, 1981, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Originally from Bottineau, ND, she moved to Kittitas County at the age of five. Mabel married Dallas Kinkade in 1917, who died in 1951. A member of several community organizations, she is survived by her son Howard, daughter Lorine, six grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Graveside services will take place at Ellensburg’s IOOF Cemetery, with memorial contributions welcomed for chosen charities.

Bates, George Edward – Obituary

George Edward Bates, aged 69, passed away on July 4, 1969, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He had lived in Spokane for 40 years and is survived by his wife, Mabel Bates, and three sisters: Joy Gage and Murrel Baird of Yakima, and Ruth Cole of Long Beach, California. He was also the brother-in-law of Leta Bates from Ellensburg.

Dailey, Ivy A. Person Mrs. – Obituary

Ivy A. Dailey, 87, of Baker City, Oregon, passed away on January 6, 2003. Born on October 10, 1915, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, she married Floyd Dailey in 1935 and they operated a ranch in Keating until 1965. The couple later settled in Baker City, where they worked for the Senior Center and the Calvary Baptist Church. Ivy was known for her hard work and outdoor pursuits. She is survived by her grandchildren and sister, with memorial contributions suggested to the Keating Rural Fire District.

Biographical Sketch of Noah S. Kellogg

Noah S. Kellogg, born in Ohio in 1829, was a prominent prospector who journeyed to Oregon in 1853 and initially worked in lumbering. He shifted his focus to mining after 1870, exploring regions in British Columbia, California, and Mexico. In 1888, he became part owner of the Bunker Hill and Sullivan mines in Idaho, which had significant ore reserves. Kellogg’s contributions to prospecting have made him a notable figure in mining history, with ongoing interests in additional valuable mines.

Biographical Sketch of William R. Minor, Jr.

William R. Minor, Jr. was born on May 1, 1855, in Callaway County, Missouri. In 1864, his family joined the Big Missouri Train to the Grande Ronde Valley, settling near Cove. After marrying Jennie Beggs in 1878, he farmed in Wallowa Valley, moving several times and ultimately purchasing a quarter section east of Wallowa in 1899. A dedicated farmer and community member, Minor actively supported local education and maintained strong political interests, earning the respect and admiration of his peers.