Idaho State Historical Society

The Idaho State Historical Society is a trusted guide through the state’s history and how it has shaped every aspect of our lives - our land, our communities, our government and our people. Created in 1881 and established as a state agency in 1907, the Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS) is an extraordinary system of cultural and historic resources comprised of the Idaho State Museum, Idaho State Archives, Idaho State Historic Preservation Office, Old Idaho Penitentiary and Historic Sites Program.

ISHS preserves and provides access to irreplaceable state owned historic collections including 50,000 artifacts, 500,000 photos, 40,000 maps and architectural drawings, 60 historic buildings, and 20,000 archeological items.

ISHS benefits Idahoans though key programs including Capitol curation and exhibition; records management through the State Archives, operation of cultural facilities of the state including the Idaho State Museum and Old Idaho Penitentiary, and management of the programs under the National Historic Preservation Act, including the National Register of Historic Places Programs.

The Idaho State Historical Society serves over 110,000 people each year through educational programs, inspiring exhibitions, fun events, genealogy and family history, research use, and technical assistance. Annually, over 15,000 school- aged children benefit from ISHS programs and visits.