State to celebrate 150th

BONNERS FERRY — One hundred and 50 years ago, President Abraham Lincoln signed an act creating the Idaho Territory on March 4, 1863.

The territorial period of Idaho lasted for 27 years, until July 3, 1890. During Idaho’s territorial period, the geographical boundaries and the political and economic foundations for the future State of Idaho were established.

The territorial period witnessed some of Idaho’s most significant historical events that still impact the lives of Idahoans today, including the establishment of Boise as the capital city; wars with the Nez Perce, Shoshone, Bannock and Paiute people; the creation of public school districts; and the adoption of the state constitution.

The 150th anniversary of the creation of the territory is a time to recognize the efforts of Idaho’s forebears and the creation of the foundation for the Idaho we recognize today.