First Christmas Services in the Boise Basin

On December 25, 1863, Roman Catholic Fathers held the first Christmas services in the gold towns of the Boise Basin.

More details on this event have been posted on the blog for Sourdough Publishing. A version of this material also appears in my book, Idaho: Year One – The Territory's First Year.

Stock Raisers of Idaho

Truman C. Catlin is one of many ranchers featured in my book about the development of the Idaho stock raising industry:
Before the Spud: Indians, Buckaroos, and Sheepherders in Pioneer Idaho. 

Of course, as noted by the title, the native inhabitants – with their extensive horse herds – sheep ranchers also played a role in that history. For more information about the book, including a full Table of Contents, visit my related Sourdough Publishing blog.

First Territorial Legislature Meets

On December 7, 1863, the newly-elected legislators for Idaho Territory met for the first time, in Lewiston. They had a lot to do get the Territorial government up and running.

More details on this event have been posted on the blog for Sourdough Publishing. A version of this material also appears in my book, Idaho: Year One – The Territory's First Year.