One Of The Biggest Names In Baseball Grew Up In One Of The Smallest Towns In Idaho
By Courtnie Erickson|Published May 18, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
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From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Celebrities from all different industries call Idaho home. Musicians, actors, and even sports stars have ties to the Gem State. While many of these well-known individuals come from larger cities, Harmon Killebrew is one athlete who grew up in a small town in Idaho — Payette. Killebrew made quite a name for himself in baseball and Payette is where it all started.
Harmon Killebrew became a well-known name in the baseball world from the 1950s to 1970s. He is a member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and has an impressive home run total of 573. Playing for 22 years in the major leagues, his list of accomplishments is quite long.
But what many people don’t know is that Killebrew grew up in the small town of Payette, Idaho. Located near the Oregon and Idaho state line and along Highway 95, this small town is one that not many people stop to explore.
Today, Payette is not a large town. Approximately 7,400 people call it home, making it the perfect town if you are searching for a more quiet place to explore.
This small town dates back to the 1800s and was named after a Canadian fur trapper named Fancois Payette. It wasn’t until the 1890s when the city became incorporated. In 1917, Payette became the official county seat of Payette County.
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The Payette River flows through town and you can enjoy some river views at Kiwanis Park.
The Payette River is approximately 80 miles long and is a tributary of the Snake River. Kiwanis Park is one of the most popular parks in Payette and is home to the city’s bandshell and is where many events in the town are held throughout the year.
Kiwanis Park is also home to the city’s swimming pools. The pools are located on the west side of Kiwanis Park and here you will find both an indoor and outdoor pool. Plus, there is also a wading pool where younger children can play and safely spend some time in the water.
This is a 200-acre ATV and motorcycle park that is open year round. Here, you will find two miles of trails that beginners and expert riders will enjoy.
You can also stop into the Payette County Museum to learn a little more about this incredible area and its history.
This coffeehouse in Idaho not only features a casual and relaxing atmosphere but it is where you can find all types of tasty treats and coffee items. You'll easily find the perfect treat no matter the time of day.
Payette is more than just the place where baseball star Harmon Killebrew grew up. It is also a small town worthy of exploring.
Have you spent time in Payette, Idaho? What are some of your favorite things to do in this small town? Let us know in the comments! You can also learn more about this town on the official Payette City website.
Do you have a favorite small town in Idaho that we should check out? What about a favorite restaurant? Hotel? Hiking trail? No matter what it is, we’d love to know about it. Fill out this form and tell us about some of your favorite destinations in Idaho. We’d love to hear from you.
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