Exploring Bingham County, Idaho

Nestled in the southeastern part of Idaho, Bingham County is a region rich in history, agricultural abundance, and stunning landscapes. From its Native American roots to its thriving modern communities, Bingham County offers a fascinating blend of past and present. This blog post delves into the county’s history, settlement, key towns, economic drivers, natural features, and recreational opportunities—including the unique Hell’s Half Acre and the tribal casino that draws visitors from across the region.

A Brief History of Bingham County

Bingham County was established on January 13, 1885, carved out of Oneida County. It was named after Henry H. Bingham, a Civil War officer and U.S. Congressman from Pennsylvania. The county’s development was closely tied to the arrival of the Utah & Northern Railway in the late 1870s, which spurred growth and brought settlers to the region.

Before European settlement, the area was home to Native American tribes, primarily the Shoshone-Bannock people, who lived off the land’s abundant resources. The arrival of fur trappers, missionaries, and eventually Mormon pioneers in the mid-19th century marked the beginning of significant changes for the region.

Population and Statistics

The county’s first census (1890) counted 13,575 residents. The population dropped 23% in the 1900 Census, after Bannock and Fremont Counties were created from Bingham in 1893. Another drop occured with the 1920 Census, after four more counties were cut from Bingham’s land between 1911 and 1917. From that point on, the county has remained at 2,120 square miles and the population has grown steadily. The 2020 Census counted 47,992 residents. Bingham County is twelfth in area of Idaho’s forty-four counties, and ninth in population.

Native Peoples of Bingham County
The Shoshone and Bannock tribes were the original inhabitants of what is now Bingham County. These tribes followed seasonal migration patterns, hunting game such as bison, elk, and deer, and gathering roots, berries, and other wild plants. The Snake River, which runs through the county, was a vital resource for fishing and transportation.

With the westward expansion of settlers and the establishment of Fort Hall (just north of present-day Pocatello) in the 1830s, tensions rose between Native Americans and newcomers. The Fort Bridger Treaty of 1868 established the Fort Hall Indian Reservation, where many Shoshone-Bannock people were relocated. Today, the reservation remains an important cultural and economic center for the tribes.

Settlement and Growth
Mormon pioneers were among the first permanent settlers in Bingham County, establishing communities along the Snake River in the 1860s. The construction of the Utah & Northern Railway in 1878 was a turning point, connecting the region to larger markets and encouraging further settlement.

Agriculture quickly became the backbone of Bingham County’s economy, with settlers diverting water from the Snake River for irrigation. The fertile soil and reliable water supply allowed for prosperous farming, particularly of potatoes, wheat, and sugar beets—crops that remain vital to the county today.

Blackfoot: The County Seat and Its History

 

Blackfoot, the county seat of Bingham County, was founded in 1878 as a railroad town. It was originally called “Blackfoot Station” due to its proximity to the Blackfoot River, which was named after a Native American who drowned there. The town grew rapidly as a transportation and agricultural hub.

One of Blackfoot’s most famous attractions is the Idaho Potato Museum, celebrating the state’s most iconic crop. Housed in a historic railroad depot, the museum showcases the history of potato farming and even features a giant baked potato for photo opportunities.

Blackfoot is also home to the Eastern Idaho State Fair, one of the largest and most popular fairs in the region, drawing thousands of visitors each year for rodeos, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.

Other Communities in Bingham County

While Blackfoot is the largest city, Bingham County is home to several other notable communities:

• Shelley: Known as the “Home of the Famous Shelley Spud,” this small town celebrates its potato-growing heritage with an annual Spud Day festival. The 2020 Census counted 4,785 residents.
• Firth: A quiet farming community with strong ties to agriculture and local schools. 517 people called Firth home in 2020.
• Aberdeen: Founded by Mormon settlers, Aberdeen is a key agricultural center, particularly for seed production. In 2020, the Census counted 1,756 local residents,
• Moreland: A rural community with historic roots in early 20th-century homesteading. This Census Designated Place had 1,264 residents in 2020.

Each of these towns contributes to the county’s tight-knit, rural character.

Agriculture and Industry

Bingham County is often called the “Potato Capital of the World” due to its massive potato production. The region’s volcanic soil and irrigation systems make it ideal for growing high-quality potatoes, which are shipped nationwide. Other major crops include wheat, barley, sugar beets, and alfalfa.

In addition to agriculture, Bingham County has a growing industrial sector. Food processing plants, such as those producing frozen potato products, play a significant role in the local economy. The county also benefits from its proximity to Idaho Falls, which provides additional employment opportunities in energy, healthcare, and technology.

Topography and Natural Features

Bingham County’s landscape is diverse, ranging from fertile river valleys to rugged lava fields. Key geographic features include:

• Snake River Plain: A broad, flat expanse where most of the county’s agriculture thrives.
• Hell’s Half Acre: A vast lava field (actually covering about 150 square miles) that offers a striking, otherworldly landscape.
• Blackfoot River: A tributary of the Snake River, important for irrigation and recreation.

Recreation and Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Bingham County:

• Fishing and Boating: The Snake River and nearby reservoirs, such as American Falls Reservoir, provide excellent opportunities for fishing (trout, bass) and water sports.
• Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: Hell’s Half Acre offers unique hiking terrain, and the region is home to deer, elk, and migratory birds.
• Golfing: The Blackfoot Golf Course is a popular local spot for golfers.

Hell’s Half Acre: A Geological Wonder

Despite its name, Hell’s Half Acre is much larger than an acre—it’s a sprawling lava field formed by ancient volcanic activity. The jagged terrain has been used as a filming location for sci-fi movies (including Starship Troopers) due to its eerie, moon-like appearance. Visitors can explore the area via trails and marvel at the rugged beauty of this natural landmark.

Conclusion

Bingham County, Idaho, is a place where history, agriculture, and natural wonders converge. From the Native American heritage of the Shoshone-Bannock tribes to the thriving potato farms and unique attractions like Hell’s Half Acre, the county offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re exploring the Idaho Potato Museum, attending the Eastern Idaho State Fair, or venturing into the lava fields, Bingham County is a hidden gem worth discovering.

If you’re passing through southeastern Idaho, take some time to explore this fascinating region—you might just fall in love with its rugged charm and welcoming communities.  And to learn more about Idaho and its forty-four counties, visit my Gem State page.