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 prehistoric, historic and state artifacts; photographs, maps, manuscripts and architectural drawings; territorial, county, city, and state government records. ISHS stewards and maintains 61 buildings which include historic and significant structures. 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. The Idaho State Historical Society is state assisted and raises more than half of its budget to support services and programs with a mix of fees, public and private grants, memberships, corporations and philanthropic gifts. Mission Idaho State Historical Society preserves and promotes Idaho history. Vision Our vision is to make history essential and accessible through dynamic and gratifying services that inspire, enrich and engage all Idahoans. Values Customer Service - ISHS is responsive to the needs of its customers - ISHS advances the Agency through innovation - ISHS is seen as a trustworthy resource - ISHS owns customer requests - ISHS exceeds expectations Stewardship - ISHS collects, preserves,and provides access to State-owned archaeological and historical artifacts, sites, and archival materials - ISHS represents a statewide and national perspective and collects materials to represent all Idahoans Education - ISHS teaches and promotes essential historical literacy and the historical thinking process through its public programs - ISHS develops programs based on customer needs with focused outcomes Professionalism - ISHS is committed to making history an essential resource for the people of Idaho through both traditional and innovative services that respond to social needs - ISHS is committed to team unity and mutual respect among its staff, board, partners, and volunteers - We demonstrate genuine passion for work through enthusiasm and excellence through accordance with professional standards