Bannock County Historical Complex — Attraction in Pocatello

Great tourist attraction to learn about the wild west and how cities were built and run throughout history. The museum has many interesting exhibits covering fire departments, army attire of the old cavalry. Pre-Columbian native American attire. Telegraph and telephone systems that were used when party lines and operators were the norm. There is a store with memorabilia, stuffed animals of the local wildlife, and books on the history of the region. There is a long foot path that leads to a reconstructed western town complete with the essential businesses to run a city, and the buildings have windows with exhibits depicting the times and necessities of the era. A replica of Fort Hall is meticulously built to scale. You can feel the temperature drop inside the log buildings because they were insulated with thick wood and pitch. There is a video presentation of the history of Fort Hall. Multiple floors to explore and learn from. This is a great place for families, early teens, history buffs, and general interest groups to visit. You will not be disappointed with your visit but have your mind and knowledge expanded. There is a small single-digit entry fee but it is well worth every penny...

The Bannock County Historical Museum "was constructed near the Fort because it was thought that the proximity would provide a more complete experience for visitors.... exhibits, objects, and records relating to Bannock County and Pocatello's history." The Fort Hall Replica "was built to scale using Hudson Bay Trading Company floor plans and traditional materials and methods... to commemorate the area's history. The original Fort was established in 1834 as a fur trade post, and it later served as both a stage-stop and supply post for emigrants..." The Pocatello Junction buildings "(about 4 scale) ... represent the primary community buildings and businesses that were part of the original Pocatello townsite" for settlers on the...

Knowledgeable staff can answer your questions on area history, cool displays (old stagecoach, fire engine, Victorian parlor, prohibition-era confiscated weapons), research library (books and photos). During the summer, admission also includes the big Fort Hall replica and Frontier town (saloon, tribune, general store, church, school, etc.) you can walk through. Definitely...