National Register of Historic Places listings in Butte County, Idaho facts for kids
This page lists special places in Butte County, Idaho that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. Think of it like a national scrapbook of important buildings, sites, and objects that tell America's story. These places are chosen because they are historically or architecturally important.
The National Register of Historic Places is a list kept by the United States government. It helps protect and celebrate places that are important to our country's past. When a place is on this list, it means it has a unique story to tell about history, art, or science. In Butte County, Idaho, there are four such special places. One of them is even more important and is called a National Historic Landmark. New places are added to the Register every week across the country.
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Historic Places in Butte County
Butte County is home to some fascinating historic sites. Each one has a unique story that connects us to the past. Let's explore these special places.
Arco Baptist Community Church
The Arco Baptist Community Church is a beautiful building located at 402 West Grand Avenue in Arco, Idaho. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 29, 2001. This church is important because it shows the history of faith and community in Arco. It stands as a reminder of the people who built and worshipped there over the years.
Experimental Breeder Reactor No. 1
The Experimental Breeder Reactor No. 1, often called EBR-I, is a very significant place. It is located at the Idaho National Laboratory near Arco, Idaho. This site was added to the National Register on October 15, 1966. It is so important that it is also a National Historic Landmark. This means it has played a major role in the history of the United States.
A Nuclear Power Pioneer
EBR-I was the first nuclear reactor in the world to produce electricity. This happened on December 20, 1951. It was a huge step forward in science and technology. Scientists at EBR-I also proved that a nuclear reactor could create more fuel than it used. This was a groundbreaking discovery for nuclear power. The reactor is now a museum where you can learn about its amazing history.
Goodale's Cutoff
Goodale's Cutoff is a historic trail located south of Arco, off U.S. Route 20. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 1, 1974. This trail is a part of the famous Oregon Trail. It was a shortcut used by pioneers traveling west in the 1800s.
A Shorter Path West
In the mid-1800s, thousands of pioneers traveled across America looking for new homes. The main Oregon Trail was long and sometimes dangerous. Goodale's Cutoff offered a different route. It was named after Tim Goodale, who guided a large wagon train along this path in 1862. The cutoff helped pioneers avoid some difficult parts of the main trail. It shows the spirit of adventure and determination of early American settlers.
