From the Archives - Sept. 24, 2020
Thomas J. Jones — the son of Andrew J. Jones and brother to Belle Jones (wife of Dr. T.A. Bishop) — moved with his family to the Kootenai Valley in 1888. He is pictured clearing some of his land and making firewood.
(Photo courtesy BOUNDARY COUNTY MUSEUM)
At the age of 24, Thomas J. Jones - son of Andrew J. Jones and brother to Belle Jones (wife of Dr. T.A. Bishop) - moved with his family to the Kootenai Valley in 1888. He went to work for William Eaton, of Eatonville, as a bookkeeper, and then entered the employ of the Bonners Ferry Mercantile Company. In 1899, T.J. opened a drug store in Bonners Ferry and made a successful business of it. He was elected clerk of Bonners Ferry, serving from 1892-1898.
T.J. used his earnings to invest in eighty acres of land adjoining town. He and his wife, Ambrosia (Eaton), planted many different varieties of fruit trees and raised a huge garden. This land, now called the Jones Addition, is below Grandview Cemetery (Fessler home).
It is that time of year again, when people are making plans to gather firewood for the upcoming winter. This photo shows T.J. Jones clearing some of his land and making firewood.
Although the museum remains closed, you can still purchase the 2021 Historical Calendar for $5. Call the museum to arrange a pickup time, or send your request though an e-mail or the Facebook page. If you wish to have one mailed to you, send $5 for the calendar and $5 for shipping to P.O. Box 808, Bonners Ferry, Idaho 83805. Calendars are also being sold at Boundary Tractor. Thank you for your continued support!
Your Boundary County Historical Society and Museum, 7229 Main, Bonners Ferry, Idaho sponsors this column.
Visit the website at www.boundarycountymuseum.org or the Museum’s Facebook Page for historical photos and stories, and to see upcoming events. Or we can be reached at doyouremember@meadowcrk.com or telephone, 208-267-7720.