Many generations before Bonners Ferry became a town, the Kootenai people called this land their home. The Kootenais traded with and  assisted Canadian explorer David Thompson who first visited the area in 1808-09. Later early travelers included Father DeSmet and the Boundary Commission Survey Party. When gold was discovered in British Columbia, thousands of prospectors rushed northward over a route that became known as the Wildhorse Trail. Walla Walla business man Edwin Bonner established a ferry and trading post on the Kootenai River, near present day Bonners Ferry. 
     In the early 1890’s the Great Northern Railroad reached the area and platted Bonnerport. The settlement became a supply point as steamboats moved freight and passengers on the Kootenai River.Two railroad spurs were added and a large Weyerhouser lumber mill was built east of town. The influx of prospectors, railroad men, timber men, and homesteaders created a boom town atmosphere. Seventeen saloons provided the necessities of life.     
    In 1899 three river communities, Bonnerport and Eaton on the southside and Fry on the northside, merged to form the Village of Bonners Ferry. Boundary County separated from Bonner County in 1915. 
    By the 1920’s, false front wooden structures gave way to brick buildings; sidewalks replaced boardwalks, and bridges replaced the ferry. Churches and schools grew as more families settled. Dikes protected the town and farmlands from spring floods most years. Libby Dam removed the threat of flooding, but not the memories for old timers.

    Today’s Bonners Ferry retains much of the flavor of its past, while a recent revitalization project has given a facelift to the downtown area. The one thing that has never changed is the friendly, hometown attitude of its citizens. The Boundary County Museum is the anchor of the historic downtown business district retaining and exhibiting the heritage of Far North Idaho for both residents and visitors. Admission is by donation. 

Smithsonian Journey Stories Exhibit May 28-July 10, 2010

The Boundary County Historical Society, Inc is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation

Boundary County Museum   7229 Main Street   Bonners Ferry, Idaho 83805
Hours: October-March Fri-Sat 10-4   April-Sept Tues-Sat 10-4
208-267-7720       bcmuseum@meadowcrk.com