Who Settled Paris Idaho?

By Anna Duncan

Paris, Idaho is a small city located in the southeastern part of the state. It is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting.

However, not many people know about the history of this town and how it came to be settled. In this article, we will explore the story of who settled Paris, Idaho and how it became what it is today.

Early History

Before European settlers arrived in Paris, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Shoshone and Bannock. They lived off the land and hunted buffalo that roamed the plains.

In 1861, a group of Mormon pioneers led by Charles C. Rich arrived in Bear Lake Valley, where Paris is located. The Mormons were looking for a place to settle where they could practice their religion without persecution. They saw potential in the fertile land and established their community there.

The Founding of Paris

Paris was officially founded on September 26th, 1863 by George Nye and his family. They built a cabin near what is now known as Nye Park and began farming the land.

Other families soon followed suit and established their homesteads in the area. The town grew rapidly as more settlers arrived from nearby states such as Utah and Wyoming.

Growth and Development

In 1870, Paris became the county seat of Bear Lake County due to its central location in the valley. This brought more people to settle in the town as businesses began to open up around the courthouse.

Paris continued to grow throughout the late 1800s as more industries were established such as sawmills, flour mills, and cheese factories. The town also became an important stop along stagecoach routes that connected Utah with Montana.

Modern Day Paris

Today, Paris is a small town with a population of around 500 people. It is home to several historic buildings such as the Paris Tabernacle, which was built in 1889 and is still used for community events.

The town also hosts an annual Paris Pioneer Days celebration, which commemorates the early settlers and their contributions to the community. It includes a parade, rodeo, and other festivities.

In conclusion, Paris, Idaho was settled by Mormon pioneers in the early 1860s who saw potential in the fertile land of Bear Lake Valley. The town grew rapidly as more settlers arrived and established their homesteads. Today, Paris is a small but thriving community that takes pride in its history and heritage.