Paris Idaho

Biography of John Cozzens

John Cozzens, born May 17, 1833, in South Wales, is a prominent pioneer of Montpelier, Idaho. Arriving in 1856 with his wife Martha, he initially settled in Weaver Valley before responding to a call for settlers in Bear Lake Valley. As president of the colony for its first decade, he faced numerous hardships, including harsh winters and crop failures, but helped develop a thriving agricultural community. Cozzens later married Emily Merrill and Sarah J. Perkins, fathering eighteen children and establishing a reputation as a liberal and public-spirited citizen.

Biography of Joseph R. Shepherd

Joseph R. Shepherd, born in England in 1865, immigrated to Idaho with his family in 1877. He began his career as a clerk, later managing the local co-operative store before founding the Paris Mercantile Company. A successful businessman, Shepherd is known for his progressive methods and community spirit. He actively participated in local politics, serving as the city’s first councilman and currently as its mayor. Married to Rose Budge, they have six children and are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Biography of John U. Stucki

John Ulrich Stucki, born June 8, 1837, in Switzerland, is a prominent figure in Bear Lake County, where he settled in 1870. A dedicated member of the Latter Day Saints Church, he served in various church and community roles, including the first mayor of Paris. Stucki was influential in promoting the church in Europe before emigrating to the U.S., where he became a successful farmer and businessman. His civic contributions include roles as justice of the peace, county treasurer, and more, reflecting his commitment to public service.

Biography of Alfred Budge

Alfred Budge, born in 1868 in Providence, Utah, is the current prosecuting attorney of Bear Lake County. Educated at the University of Michigan, he began practicing law in 1892 in Paris, Idaho. A member of the Republican party, Budge served as district attorney and later won the position of prosecuting attorney despite a Democratic majority in the county. He has also been active in local governance, church service, and has traveled extensively for his faith. Budge is married with two sons and is involved in local business ventures.

Biography of Bishop William Budge

Bishop William Budge, born on May 1, 1828, in Lanark, Scotland, became a prominent leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and a significant figure in Idaho politics. After converting at twenty, he served as a missionary in Europe and led a group of converts to Salt Lake City in 1860. Settling in Idaho, he became a bishop, aiding in the church’s growth and contributing to local infrastructure. Budge served as a state senator, advocating for his community while balancing his religious duties. He married Julia Stratford and had five children.

Biography of Christian Wallantine

Christian Wallantine, born on October 21, 1841, in Denmark, immigrated with his family to Utah in 1853-54. They faced significant hardships during their journey. Wallantine later became a prominent farmer in Paris, Idaho, where he established the first frame house in Bear Lake Valley. A dedicated member of the Democratic Party, he held various public offices, including Idaho legislator, and was known for his integrity and commitment to community welfare. He and his wife, Elizabeth, had eleven children, with nine living.

Biography of Hon. John L. Underwood

Hon. John L. Underwood, born January 15, 1832, in New York, is a notable figure in Idaho as a postmaster, businessman, Civil War veteran, and Republican leader. He enlisted in the Iowa Volunteer Infantry and was wounded at Shiloh. After the war, he became a successful stockman and cattle shipper, eventually settling in Montpelier, where he served as state senator and U.S. commissioner. An active community member, he contributed to local organizations and churches, significantly influencing Idaho’s political landscape while maintaining a model post office with his wife, Lizzie.

Biography of Stephen Kelsey

Stephen Kelsey, a prominent figure in pioneer history, journeyed to Utah in 1847 with Brigham Young’s group at the age of seventeen. Born in Ohio in 1830, he volunteered to drive a team across the plains, encountering numerous dangers. After helping settle Salt Lake City, he engaged in farming, later traveling to California for gold. Kelsey and his wife, Lydia, settled in Bear Lake County, Idaho, where they overcame hardships to establish a prosperous farm. They raised twelve children and remain respected members of the Latter Day Saints Church.

Biography of Charles C. Rich

Charles C. Rich, born in 1809 in Kentucky, was a pivotal figure in the early settlement and development of Utah, California, and Idaho. A devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he played a significant role in establishing the city of Paris, Idaho, and was instrumental in founding Santa Bernardino in California. Rich was a leader among the pioneers, actively participating in their affairs, and served multiple church missions, including a notable one in Europe. He was married six times and fathered fifty-two children, leaving a lasting legacy in the communities he helped shape. Rich passed away in 1883, remembered for his leadership and contributions to the region.

Biography of Walter Hoge

Walter Hoge, born on November 18, 1844, in England, became a key figure in southeastern Idaho’s industrial landscape, particularly in the lumber business. Settling in Paris, he established sawmills and a planing mill, significantly contributing to local employment and prosperity. His early life included various trades, including butchering and mining, before he embraced the faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. A community leader, Hoge served as sheriff and participated in public office while fostering a reputable family life and ranching endeavors.