Idaho has definitely gone through some substantial changes over the years. There are some areas of our state that you wouldn’t be able to recognize a decade ago, never mind nearly seven decades ago. The photographs featured below show off a side of our state that’s almost been entirely forgotten. Looking at these photos from the 1950s, you can’t help but feel a bit nostalgic for a simpler time—back when Idaho was a lot less populated and time seemed to move slower. Take a look at these photos below and see if you recognize any of these landscapes!

1. On the main street of Cascade, Idaho.
Russell Lee/Wikimedia Commons
Cascade has definitely retained a lot of its small town charm, but this picture takes it to a whole other level. Do you remember any of these businesses?
2. The LDS Temple along the Snake River in Idaho Falls.
Scott Photo/Wikimedia Commons
This view of the LDS Temple across the Snake River is iconic. In fact, it doesn't look all that different today.
3. The Shore Lodge at Payette Lake in McCall, Idaho.
Water Archives/Flickr
The Shore Lodge has definitely received some upgrades in recent years, so this image is a real throwback. But at least we know that Payette Lake has always been a treasured vacation destination among Idahoans.
4. Lucky Peak Dam near Boise, Idaho.
Water Archives/Flickr
This is another natural landscape that doesn't look all that different today. This beloved summertime destination has always been a hot spot for both travelers and locals.

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5. Idaho Power linemen and truck.
Water Archives/Flickr
The Idaho Power trucks have definitely received a face-lift since this was taken!
6. Little Redfish Lake in the early morning.
Water Archives/Flickr
This photo just proves that although decades can pass, some things will stay delightfully the same. We're so thankful that this landscape is as stunning as ever these days.
7. Post Falls Dam and the Spokane River in North Idaho.
Water Archives/Flickr
This photo is a fantastic reminder of one of our state's greatest man-made wonders. The Post Falls Dam has been powering regions in North Idaho for more than a century.
8. Grain elevators in Caldwell, Idaho.
Library of Congress/Wikimedia Commons
It seems like it was a simpler time back then, doesn't it? These days may be long gone, but we wouldn't be the wonderful state that we are today without them.

Were you living in Idaho during the 1950s? Do you remember when our state looked like the place in the photos above? Share your thoughts with us in the comments! For another look at the past, check out The Oldest Photographs Ever Taken In Idaho And They’re Amazing.

 

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