Bannock County Historical Society

March of 2026 marked the 104th anniversary of the Bannock County Historical society, which was founded on March 9, 1922, by a group of citizens who recognized the importance of preserving the history of Bannock County and the contribution of this area to the development of the western United States. The founders themselves are notable in local and national history.

They are:

President, Dr. Minnie Howard, Pocatello's pioneer physician who with her husband, Dr. William Forrest Howard established medical practices and became active members of the community. She worked with Ezra Meeker and native American Joe Rainey to verify the location of the original Fort Hall and took part in the organization and direction of the Oregon Trail Memorial Association. She was crucial in the campaign to secure funding from Andrew Carnegie and the Pocatello City Council's suport to build the Pocatello Library. 

Vice President, George Nicholas Ifft, one of the founders and editor at various times of the Pocatello Tribune (later The Idaho State Journal). He also served as a U.S. Consul in various consulates on and off in Europe and Canada from 1905 to 1929.

Secretary, Mr. Robb Brady, son of Senator James H. Brady, the ninth Governor of Idaho prior to becoming a senator. 

Treasurer, Mrs. Mark O'Malley, Member of the Women's Study League and Daughters of the American Revolution.

Board Member, Miss Ethelyn Glasser, Curator of History and Member of the Women's Study League.

Board Member, Mr. C.R. Frazier, President of the Idaho Technical Institute (now ISU).

Board Member, Mr. Walter R. Sliders, Superintendent of Pocatello Schools from 1899 to 1927, founding member of the NEA.