From the Archives - Feb. 22, 2024

Henry J. Klebert was born in New York in 1889. By the age of 20 he married Anna, and they resided in New Jersey. Hank wanted to see what the “West” was like, so he left his wife with his parents and traveled to Idaho. In the 1920 census records, Hank was listed as “single” and a “boarder” in Boundary County, Idaho. 

Within a year or so, he returned to New Jersey. Hank and Anna had four sons – Walter, Harold, Raymond, and Henry – by 1930. He dreamed of a life in Idaho. Hank and Anna divorced. 

The 1940 census record shows Henry J. Klebert living in Porthill, Idaho, with his wife Regina. He listed Regina as his wife on his draft registration card in 1942. By the 1950 census, Henry is listed as divorced still living in Porthill. It also lists Hank’s occupation as “bartender” and owner of a “beer tavern.” This is where the matchbook comes into the story. Hank owned and operated the Leaky Roof Tavern in Porthill, Idaho.

Hank died March 6, 1955 and is buried in the Porthill Cemetery.

The Boundary County Historical Society and Museum, 7229 Main St., Bonners Ferry, Idaho, sponsors this column.

Visit the museum Thursday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., or visit the museum's website at boundarycountymuseum.org or its Facebook page for historical photos and stories, and to see upcoming events. The museum can be reached at doyouremember@meadowcrk.com or by telephone at 208-267-7720. Thank you for your continued support.