Few People Realize How Much Idaho History Is Preserved In The Small Town Of Franklin
By Courtnie Erickson|Published April 17, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
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.
It is no secret that the small towns in Idaho are the heart and soul of the Gem State. But, there is one small town that is often overlooked — Franklin. This is a town with lots of history. In fact, Franklin is the oldest town in Idaho. Just over the Utah and Idaho state line, this town is certainly small but it’s one that every Idahoan should know about and visit at least once.
Franklin is located in southern Idaho, across the Utah/Idaho state line and just north of Logan, Utah. Approximately 600 people call this area home.
When you visit Franklin, you will feel like you are stepping back in time. There is so much history preserved in this small town that you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to a more simple time and place.
Franklin was founded in 1860 by pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These pioneers were moving north through Cache Valley and decided to build small cabins and farms along the Cub River. Sixty-one families built a home in the area.
At the time, these pioneers believed that they were establishing their homes and farms in Utah. It wasn’t until 1872 that they discovered that they were actually outside of the territory.
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As the settlers began developing a city plan, they established large streets and town lots. They also developed a central square, which today is Franklin City Park.
As you explore town today, you can visit the Franklin Historic District, where you will see many historic buildings. The Hatch House is one of these historic structures that was built in 1872 by Lorenzo Hill Hatch, the town’s first mayor and a religious leader. This house was acquired by the Historical Society in 1979.
The old Franklin Cooperative Mercantile Building is also standing today. In 1923, it was acquired and transformed into a museum but more space was needed.
So, in 1936 and 1937, the Relic Hall was constructed. Timber provided by the Forest Service and labor by Civilian Conservation Corps crews helped build this structure. The Relic Hall became a museum filled with local history.
As Idaho’s oldest town, there is still so much history preserved in the community. Spend an afternoon exploring the town, walk through the historic district, and just admire the beauty of this area. Franklin is one small town in Idaho that should never be overlooked.
Did you know the history of Franklin, Idaho? Have you ever explored this town or visited the Franklin Historic District? Let us know in the comments! You can also learn more on the official Franklin City website.
If you’d love to learn even more about the history of Idaho and some incredible places to visit, check out our collection of articles!
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