Preservation Twin Falls would like to renovate a "prove-up shack" for the community of Twin Falls, Idaho. A "prove-up shack" is a small dwelling built by homesteaders in Idaho during the Homestead Act to demonstrate their commitment to the land they were homesteading. The Homestead Act, passed by Congress in 1862, provided settlers with 160 acres of land for free if they lived on and improved the land for at least five years. Idaho's Homestead Act was signed in 1864, and by the end of the century, over 1.6 million acres of Idaho's public lands had been claimed through homesteading. Homesteaders arrived in Idaho in the mid-19th century seeking land and opportunity. Many came from the Midwest and East Coast, attracted by the prospect of owning their own land and creating a new life in the West. They built simple, small homes out of whatever materials were available, including logs, sod, and adobe. It is important to preserve a prove-up shack and create a community site to display and educate about Idaho history because it represents a significant time in the state's history when settlers were staking their claim to the land and shaping the state's identity. The prove-up shack is a symbol of the hard work, perseverance, and determination of the homesteaders who braved the challenges of living on the frontier. The period pieces in the dwelling, including a stove, clothing, and tools of the period, will provide a glimpse into what life was like for these early settlers. By preserving and displaying these artifacts, we can gain a better understanding of the challenges and triumphs of those who came before us, and honor their contributions to the development of the state. Overall, preserving a prove-up shack and creating a community site to display and educate about Idaho history is crucial for keeping the state's history alive and accessible to future generations. It will help us appreciate and learn from the past while celebrating the pioneer spirit that helped shape Idaho's identity.

To learn more, check out this PBS documentary. 

Preserve the Past and Save on Taxes with a Donation to Preservation Twin Falls

At Preservation Twin Falls, we believe in the power of preserving the past to enrich the future. Our mission is to protect and promote the historic buildings, homes, and neighborhoods of South Central Idaho, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the area's rich cultural heritage. With your support, we can continue our mission to preserve the past and build a better future for our communities. And the best part? Your donation to Preservation Twin Falls may be tax-deductible. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, contributions made to Preservation Twin Falls are eligible for a tax write-off for individuals who itemize their deductions on their federal income tax returns. Your gift supports our mission and can help reduce your taxable income. Join us in our mission to preserve the past and enrich the future of South Central Idaho. Donate to Preservation Twin Falls today and enjoy the many benefits of supporting historic preservation, including the potential for a tax write-off. Take advantage of this chance to preserve the past and save on taxes with a donation to Preservation Twin Falls. Contact us today to learn more about our mission and how you can get involved. Together, we can preserve the past and build a better future for our communities.

The Importance of Residential Historic Districts in Towns

Residential historic districts are an essential part of the cultural heritage and history of towns across the United States. They are neighborhoods that have been designated as historic due to their significance and the unique architectural style of their homes and buildings. But beyond their historical significance, residential historic districts play an important role in the overall well-being of communities. Preserves Local Heritage and History One of the most important benefits of residential historic districts is that they help to preserve the local heritage and history of a community. These neighborhoods often contain homes and buildings that date back to the early days of the community and are important reminders of the area's rich history and cultural heritage. By preserving these areas, communities ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and learn about the history of their area. Enhances Property Values Residential historic districts are often well-maintained, with homes and buildings that are in good condition and that reflect the unique character and style of the neighborhood. This helps to increase property values and attract new residents to the area. When property values are high, it can also encourage investment and development in the surrounding area, which can have a positive impact on the entire community. Strengthens Communities Residential historic districts often have a strong sense of community and a rich social fabric. The homes and buildings in these areas are often designed to be walkable and encourage interaction between residents, which can help to foster a sense of community and belonging. Additionally, residents of historic districts often participate in neighborhood events and activities, which helps to strengthen the bonds between neighbors and the community as a whole. Encourages Sustainable Development Finally, residential historic districts often promote sustainable development. The homes and buildings in these areas are often older and have been built using traditional materials and construction methods, which are often more environmentally friendly and sustainable than modern construction techniques. Additionally, the compact, walkable nature of historic neighborhoods can encourage residents to rely less on cars and other forms of transportation, which can help to reduce carbon emissions and improve the overall sustainability of the community. In conclusion, residential historic districts play an important role in the cultural heritage and well-being of communities. By preserving local history, enhancing property values, strengthening communities, and encouraging sustainable development, these neighborhoods help to ensure that the past remains an integral part of the present and the future.

Historic residential districts can enhance property values for several reasons. Firstly, homes and buildings in these areas are often unique and have a distinctive character and style, which makes them highly sought after by homebuyers and renters. Additionally, these areas are well-maintained, with homes and buildings that are in good condition and that reflect the unique character and style of the neighborhood. This can increase demand for properties in the area and drive up prices. Another way that historic residential districts can enhance property values is through preservation incentives and tax credits. Many states and local governments offer tax credits and other incentives to encourage homeowners and property owners to preserve historic properties. These incentives can increase the value of properties in historic districts by reducing the cost of rehabilitation and preservation, making it easier and more affordable for owners to maintain and restore their properties. Finally, historic residential districts can also enhance property values by attracting new residents to the area. When property values are high, it can also encourage investment and development in the surrounding area, which can have a positive impact on the overall community and increase demand for housing in the area. In conclusion, historic residential districts can enhance property values by offering unique, well-maintained properties, preservation incentives and tax credits, and attracting new residents to the area. These factors can increase demand for properties in the area and drive up prices, making historic residential districts a valuable asset for communities and property owners alike. an answer here.

Preservation Twin Falls, a 501(c) non-profit organization based in Twin Falls, Idaho, is dedicated to protecting and promoting the city's historic buildings, homes, and neighborhoods.

We supported a variety of preservation projects, including the following:

Documentaries on the preservation of important sites and landmarks, such as archaeological sites, the PBS documentary "Legacy in Stone," on experimental archaeology of Folsom points, and the Oregon trail site of Stricker Ranch

Publishing books on the history of the Minidoka Internment Camp and the preservation of old stagecoaches and grain elevators

Renovation and restoration of historic properties Educational lectures and workshops on preservation techniques and best practices

Our goal is to preserve the rich history and cultural heritage of Twin Falls for future generations and promote the benefits of preserving the past for the community, such as positive impacts on property values and the local economy.