Idaho community opens historical homes

FRANKLIN, Idaho — More than 100 dignitaries, Franklin County residents and some of Lorenzo Hatch's descendants, attended the Franklin Historic Site Preview of the interpretive panels in the newly-restored Bishop Lorenzo Hatch and John Doney houses in Franklin, Idaho, on Oct. 14.

Franklin, with a population just under 700, is the first permanent settlement in the state of Idaho. Thirteen pioneer families settled Franklin in 1860. Some of the historical buildings can still be found on Main Street in Franklin, about a mile over the Utah state line.

Idaho Historical Society executive director Janet Gallimore said the site will be a gateway to other state historical attractions in Idaho. \"This open house is a chance to give those involved a chance to see the improvements. The houses will be open to the public next spring during the tourist season from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This will be an excellent place for people to come before entering the state. Visitors will be able to pick up historical brochures and information guiding them to other historical sites throughout Idaho,\" Ms. Gallimore said.

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This story is provided by the LDS Church News, an official publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is produced weekly by the Deseret News.