Welcome to Malad | 2023

Welcome to Malad

MALAD CITY IS THE HOME OF THE WELSH FESTIVAL

CROESO! Welcome to the 17th annual Malad Valley Welsh Festival! Everyone is invited to enjoy the Welsh and pioneer traditions featured at the Festival. Come and learn about the history of Malad Valley.

The 17th annual Malad Valley Welsh Festival will be June 30-July 1, 2023, and will include something for everyone, whether or not you have lived in Malad all of your life or just moved here or just passing through, whether or not you have Welsh ancestry, and whether or not you know anything about Wales.

If you had been living in Malad Valley in the late 1800s, you would be well acquainted with Malad’s version of the Welsh eisteddfod. Held in Wales since the 1100s, the eisteddfod is the most prestigious poetry and choral competition in the world. Welsh pioneers brought those traditions with them, and Malad Valley hosted its own eisteddfod – one year in Malad and the next in St. John or Samaria – until World War I. Participants, spectators, and judges came from as far away as Salt Lake City to be part of the Malad Valley eisteddfod. The Malad Valley Welsh Festival is not exactly an eisteddfod because we celebrate the pioneer heritage of Malad Valley, not just the Welsh poetry and music traditions.

Poetry

This year’s Festival will be presided over by Monte John, the “2022 Bard of the Malad Valley Welsh Festival.” Monte will preside over the Festival from the decorative Bard’s Chair after being led into the Festival during the Opening Ceremony by the Knight of the Welsh Festival. The past Bards will all read or recite their winning poems at the Finale of the Festival when next year’s Bard will be chaired.

The Youth Poetry Competition began weeks before the Festival with judges reading over 300 poems before determining the youth semi-finalists. The semi-finalists are invited to read their poems at the Festival and vie for cash prizes and the first place crowns at each grade level.

Fifteen poems have been submitted by accomplished adult poets, and they, too, will be competing for cash prizes and the opportunity

to be the “2023 Bard of the Welsh Festival” or to receive the “Patsy Price Scott Poetry Prize.” The carved “Bard’s Chair” resides in Malad City Hall throughout the year, and plaques engraved with the names of winning Bards and Patsy Price Scott Poetry Prize winners hang on the wall there.

Music

Similar to the larger Welsh eisteddfod, music is a huge part of Malad’s Welsh Festival. The Malad Valley Welsh Men’s Chorus will perform several times during the Festival, bringing traditional Welsh songs and hymns to each event. Comprised of some of the best vocalists in Malad Valley, the Chorus will be accompanied this year by Maggie Lund.

Celtic musicians, including Louisa’s Legacy, Rhiannon, and Teton Skye from Idaho Falls, will perform on the outdoor amphitheater on both days of the Festival. The Haywire Ranch String Band will bring western pioneer music to the Festival.

The Friday evening concert will open with the Malad Valley Men’s Welsh Chorus welcom-

ing everyone with the traditional Welsh song “We’ll Keep a Welcome in the Valley” (with words altered to fit Malad Valley). Organist Janice Bunker will perform two traditional Welsh numbers. Then Cory and Jill Webster will take the audience back to the pioneer trail as they perform their “radio” broadcast as if from the trail that brought pioneers to Malad Valley. Music, stories, poems, jokes, and commercials will entertain everyone.

Twenty talented young musicians will perform vocal, piano, and instrumental numbers at the youth concert on Friday. Adult pianists will perform at the piano ensemble concert on Saturday, concluding with Mack Wilberg’s rousing 2-piano, 8-hand arrangement of “Stars and Stripes Forever.”

The Festival will close with a gymanfa ganu (sing-along) of several Welsh songs.

Presentations

Different from many festivals, the Welsh Festival always hosts presentations by experts on Welsh literature, language, and history so that attendees can learn a little about this small

country from which so many ancestors came. All three presentations are scheduled for both days of the Festival.

Lucie Thomas Washburn will speak briefly at the Opening Ceremonies on “kindness,” the theme of the Festival. St. David is the patron saint of Wales, and he stressed the importance of kindness in his last sermon.

Dean Hughes, a popular, award-winning author of LDS historical fiction and children’s books, will speak on “What It Means to Me to Be Welsh.” Many of the characters and settings for his 105 books are Welsh.

Dulais Rhys, a native of Wales who now lives in Montana, will speak about “The Welsh National Anthem: Its History and How to Sing it.”

Art

Student artists submitted their Welshthemed works of art to the Youth Art Competition before school was out. The winning art will be displayed in the 2nd Ward throughout the Festival.

Wagon Rides

Wagon tours of historic sites in Malad are one of the most popular activities of the Festival. Authentic wagons (pulled by pickups, not horses) will take passengers past the many historic buildings in Malad as guides tell the stories of the sites. New this year is the walking tour of 20 marked historic sites on North Main and Bannock Streets; maps are available at the Oneida Pioneer Museum.

One of the most important historic sites in Malad is the Presbyterian Church – the oldest church building in Malad, built 140 years ago and still in use. Visitors can get refreshments, including the best coffee in town, while they tour this historic “little church on the hill.”

Displays

“A Walk Through Wales” photo exhibit will show the scenery, castles, people, churches, and landscapes of this scenic country. Legend says that the first Welsh pioneers settled Malad Valley because it reminded them of their homeContinued page 2

Published by The Idaho Enterprise

The Welsh Chorus is an annual highlight of the Welsh Festival

land. The photos in the display show the beauty and history of Wales.

Family trees, census records, and other information about 30 of the first families to settle Malad Valley will be on display. Although many names are Welsh, other pioneer families are also featured. People have discovered relatives while looking at the family history displays.

Vendors

Many food booths, including the “Taste of Wales” booth (with foods prepared by the Malad High School FCCLA), will be at the Festival so that nobody goes hungry. Welsh cookies, breads, and other almost authentic foods will introduce visitors to delicious Welsh goodies.

Craft vendors will offer their wares in a town bazaar arrangement this year. Visitors will be able to find unique gifts for themselves and others at the vendor booths. The Welsh Country Store will have souvenirs of the Festival, Family History books, clothing, books, toys, and all kinds of Welsh- and pioneer-themed items for sale.

The Oxford Peak Arts Council will sponsor sidewalk chalk art as part of their booth. They will also have clothing so visitors can dress like historic Welsh people for pictures.

Kids’ Activities

Kids’ activities, including face paint-

ing and dragon-themed games, will entertain youngsters on Friday. The kids’ games are organized by the Oneida School District After-School Program.

On Saturday, the games played by the pioneer children as they crossed the Plains will show kids of all ages how their ancestors had fun. Organized by the Malad Middle School MathCounts Team, the games will be tests of

strength and dexterity besides being fun.

Quilt Show and Bake Sale

The popular quilt show and bake sale, sponsored by the Oneida Quilters, will be held at the Malad Co-op building in downtown Malad. Dozens of exquisite quilts made by local quilters will be on display. Home craft items and delicious baked goods will be for sale on

both days of the Festival.

Samaria

The first Welsh pioneers in Malad Valley settled at the foot of the Samaria Mountains. Pioneer cabins at Malad Valley Heritage Square will be open for visitors during the Welsh Festival. The story of the emigration of these families from Wales is told in one of the cabins while other cabins show what life was like in pioneer days. A popular attraction is the cabin where Olive Davis Osmond was born; she was the mother of the famous singing Osmonds, including Donnie and Marie.

Samaria will also feature a Welsh Kitchen where visitors will be able to taste authentic Welsh foods. Having just visited Wales, Luke Waldron is anxious to demonstrate what he learned about Welsh cuisine.

The self-guided driving tour of Samaria will take visitors to the Blue Goose, the Samaria Community Park, the Samaria Cemetery,

Kristal Talbot Office Manager/Escrow

Krystal Bates Escrow Assistant

Tracy Archibald Receptionist/Escrow Assistant

Welsh games and activities are enjoyed throughout the weekend

Harpist Cathryn Clayton

and other sites in this historic community.

Dragon Races

New this year are the Dragon’s Half- and Quarter- Marathon Races. Sponsored by the Malad High School Cross Country Team, the races will begin at 6:00 a.m. The Half-Marathon will begin at Elk Ridge Road on the Summit; the Quarter-Marathon will begin at the New Canyon Road. The finish line for both races is the Oneida County Library. The entry fee is $30 for those who want a souvenir t-shirt

(must be registered before June 20) and $20 for those who do not want a shirt.

Sunday Fireside

For 128 years, the Malad Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was in the Logan Temple District, and many residents still consider that temple an important fixture in their lives. Dedicated in 1884, the Logan Temple was the second temple in Utah and has a fascinating history as it was built over seven years with volunteer labor. Men

from Malad, Samaria, and Portage worked on the temple. The Sunday evening Fireside will feature Robert Washburn, who will speak about the history of the Logan Temple. Refreshments will be served.

Conclusion

The Malad Valley Welsh Festival will have something for everyone, whether or not you have Welsh heritage! Admission is free although some activities may have a small charge. The Welsh Festival cannot be called an eisteddfod (very few druids reside in Oneida

County), but it is an opportunity to celebrate Malad Valley’s pioneer heritage.

The Festival is partially funded by the Idaho Humanities Council, Idaho Commission on the Arts, Southeast Idaho High Country Travel Council, Bistline Family Foundation, Malad Valley Welsh Society, Hess Pumice Products, Nell J. Redfield Memorial Hospital, and other local businesses, families, and individuals. The schedule of events is printed in this paper and can be found on the website: www. welshfestival.com.

The seating of the new Bard of the Festival is the capstone of the poetry portion of the program

Presentations during the festival cover a range of subjects related to Wales and Welsh history in Malad

Celebrating 159 Years of Welsh Heritage

17th ANNUAL MALAD VALLEY WELSH FESTIVAL MALAD CITY, IDAHO

Friday

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

FRIDAY SCHEDULE

9:15 a.m. (Church Chapel)

Opening Ceremony with Lamonte John, 2023 Welsh Festival Bard

Lucie Thomas Washburn, “Festival Theme: St. David and Kindness”

9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Church Cultural Hall)

Photo Displays - “A Walk through Wales”

Family History Displays

Youth Art Exhibit (RS Room)

10:00 a.m.-Noon. (Church Chapel)

Presentations:

10:00 a.m. Dean Hughes: “What It Means to Me to Be Welsh”

11:00 a.m. Dulais Rhys: “The Welsh National Anthem: Its History and How to Sing It”

10:00-3:00 p.m. (Amphitheater)

Welsh/Celtic Musical Entertainment

10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (City Park)

Kids’ Activities (sponsored by Malad After-School Program)

10:00-4:00 p.m. (Presbyterian Church)

Tours of Historic Church; Refreshments

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. (Library)

Book Sale (sponsored by Friends of the Library)

10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Co-op Downtown)

Quilt Show and Bake Sale (sponsored by Oneida Quilters)

11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Samaria)

Malad Valley Heritage Square: Welsh Kitchen, tours of historic cabins, self-guided driving tours to historic sites and more

11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Museum)

Oneida Pioneer Museum open

11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (City Park)

Welsh Festival Country Store, “Taste of Wales,” and Food and Craft Booths open

(Booths may open earlier and stay open later.)

1:00-2:30 p.m. (Church Chapel)

Student Poetry Reading/Competition

Recognition of Youth Art Competition Winners

1:00-4:00 p.m. (begin in City Park)

Wagon Tours of Historic Sites in Malad

3:00-4:00 p.m. (Church Chapel)

Youth Music Concert

6:00-7:30 p.m. (Church Chapel)

Traditional Welsh Music

“Radio Broadcast from the Pioneer Trail” by Cory and Jill Webster

SATURDAY SCHEDULE

6:00 a.m. (Summit to Devil Creek Reservoir)

Dragon Half and Quarter Marathon (sponsored by MHS Cross Country Team)

9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Amphitheater)

Welsh/Celtic Musical Entertainment

9:15 a.m. (Church Chapel)

Opening Ceremony with Lamonte John, 2023 Welsh Festival Bard

Lucie Thomas Washburn, “Festival Theme: St. David and Kindness”

9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Church Cultural Hall)

Photo displays of “A Walk Through Wales”

Family History Displays

Youth Art Exhibit (RS Room)

10:00 a.m.-Noon (Church Chapel)

Presentations:

10:00 a.m. Dean Hughes: “What It means to Me to Be Welsh”

11:00 a.m. Dulais Rhys: “The Welsh National Anthem: Its History and How to Sing It”

10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (City Park)

Heritage Games (sponsored by MMS MathCounts Team)

10:00 - 3:00 p.m. (Presbyterian Church)

Tours of Historic Church; Refreshments

10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (Library)

Book Sale (sponsored by Friends of the Library)

10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (begin in City Park)

Wagon Tours of Historic Sites in Malad

10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (City Park)

Welsh Festival Country Store, “Taste of Wales,” and Food and Craft Booths open (Booths may open earlier or stay open later.)

10:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. (Co-op Downtown)

Quilt Show and Bake Sale (sponsored by Oneida Quilters)

11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Samaria)

Same activities as on Friday

11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Museum)

Oneida Pioneer Museum open

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. (Church Chapel)

Piano Ensemble Concert

2:30 – 4:00 p.m. (Church Chapel)

Adult Poetry Reading

Announcement of Fiction Winners

Presentation of Poetry Prizes

Chairing of 2022 Welsh Festival Bard

Finale Gymanfa Ganu (sing-along)

SUNDAY SCHEDULE

5:00 p.m. (Malad LDS 2nd Ward)

Presentation by Robert Washburn: “History of Logan Temple” Music by the Malad Valley Men’s Welsh Chorus and Others

Refreshments

A short trip to Samaria, Idaho will certainly be worth your time

By: Luke Waldron

Remove yourself from your daily rush and take a stroll back in time. Samaria, about nine miles southwest of Malad, was once the largest town in the Malad Valley. Settled in 1868 by Welsh immigrants, the town did well until the railroad was routed through Malad. After that, the primary businesses developed around the railroad terminal, and Samaria remained a farming community.

If you are looking for something to do for a few hours, the Samaria driving tour may be just the thing for you. A number of historic buildings are in the area, and the district is on the National Register of Historic Places. A fun way to learn much about the early history is to pick up your copy of the Samaria Early History Driving Tour booklet from local businessesThomas Market, Oneida County Pioneer Museum, Malad Valley Heritage Square or the Blue Goose. This 58page booklet is full of historic photographs and pioneer stories.

A must visit is the historic “Blue Goose” country store. This building has been part of the community’s history for many years, opening its doors for business around 1900 as a furniture store. It was later purchased and became the community’s Candy Store and Ice Cream Parlor and later a pool hall for many years. In 1998 the build-

ing was relocated to the Samaria Centennial Park and is now operated as a country store ran by community volunteers. A variety of items are for sale, including candy, pop, souvenirs, novelty items, sweatshirts and T-shirts, hats, aprons, cookbooks, and community history books.

We welcome you to come and enjoy the Samaria Centennial Park, beautifully kept by the Samaria Recreation District. The Samaria Centennial Park is a perfect location for your next family outing with a nice pavilion, playground, ample of room for camping and RV trailers. Join the family fun at the annual Samaria Days celebration the third weekend of July each year. Group reservations for family reunions or other events can be made by calling The Blue Goose during regular business hours at 208-766-5381.

A new and unique venue for families and individuals is the Malad Valley Heritage Square. The Malad Valley Heritage Square was dedicated on May 11, 2018 by Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Square was created to honor, perpetuate, and preserve the legacy of the Welsh Pioneer Heritage of the Malad Valley. Features of the Heritage Square include three Welsh pioneer cabins; the Thomas John Davis, Samuel Deer Davis, and the John Jones Williams.

The Thomas John Davis cabin, birthplace of Olive Davis Osmond, mother of the famous Osmond singers and entertainers, was dedicated in May 2010 by seven of Olive’s son’s, Virl, Tom, Merrill, Jay, Alan, Donny and Jimmy. Olive was born May 4, 1925, in the small cabin and grew up in Samaria. The cabin has become a museum to honor Olive Davis Osmond and the Davis family. The Samuel Deer Davis cabin is currently being restored with an original wood slat roof and being chinked with a mixture of clay and straw. S.D. Davis became a prominent community member but is most notably known for his test oath case, which went all the way to the United States Supreme Court. The John Jones Williams cabin, one of the first five homes built in the Malad Valley in 1864, is the oldest standing structure in the valley. Your Heritage Square visit also includes The Welsh Experience Exhibit and the Welsh Children’s Farm where kids can enjoy many adorable Welsh animals including sheep, ponies, chickens, and ducks. A great place for a family outing! The Malad Valley Heritage Square is open Memorial Day through Labor Day for self-guided tours. For guided tours and special events contact samariacommunity@gmail.com or call 208-380-3522.

The Samaria Cemetery abounds with stories. One of the most bizarre be-

ing that of “Uncle Ben” and his buried leg. Before Ben Waldron became a merchant, he was doing some farming. In the fall of 1878 when Ben was 24 years of age he was harvesting with a horse-powered thresher. Somehow his leg got caught up in one of the rods in the machinery and was severely injured. Ben was rushed to the hospital where he begged the doctor for several days to save his leg. However, the leg could not be saved. Ben having quite a sense of humor asked that the leg be buried, which was done. Ben complained of intense pain for weeks following the amputation. He asked if his leg was buried crooked. Those who helped bury it including Ben’s brother, Levi, said yes. Ben insisted that his leg be dug up and straightened. Levi did as his brother asked. After the leg was straightened out, Ben’s pain went away and he never complained about having the pain again. The burial plot in the Samaria Cemetery is marked with its own gravestone on the east side of the cemetery inscribed “B.W. October 30, 1878”. Just look for the stone with the leg on it. Ben died many years later in 1914 and his body is buried on the west end of the cemetery.

One thing is for sure, a trip to Samaria will not disappoint! We look forward to seeing you there!

Dude Ranch Cafe

The Local Folks’ Favorite Place To Dine!

DOWNTOWN MALAD

65 North Main • Malad • 766-4327

Exit 13 To Center of Town

Famous Homemade

Pies & Soups

Serving Lunch & Dinner

Steaks, Seafood, Fantastic Burgers & Sandwiches, alad Bar, & the Best Chicken Fried Steaks Anywhere!

~ Dining For The Entire Family ~

Hours: Tues. - Thurs.: 11:00 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Fri. & Sat.: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Closed Sun. & Mon

MALAD VALLEY WELSH FESTIVAL SUNDAY FIRESIDE

July 2, 2023, at 5:00 in 2nd Ward Chapel

“History of the Logan Temple” by Robert Washburn

Malad was in the Logan Temple District for 128 years so its history is partly Malad’s history. Music by Malad Valley Men’s Welsh Chorus. Refreshments will be served.

TAKE A SELFIE WITH THE KNIGHT OF THE FESTIVAL!

Friday, June 30, and Saturday, July 1 in the Knight’s Castle in the 2nd Ward Church

9:30 – 10:00 (after Opening Ceremony) Noon – 1:00 (after Presentations)

Friday Only

2:30 – 3:00 (after Youth Poetry Reading)

Saturday Only 4:00 – 4:30 (after Finale)

Voted Idaho’s Best Library

Oneida County Library

31 North 100 West, Malad, 208-766-2229

Monday: 11:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday - Friday: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Old Fashioned Hospitality

Play the Idaho Lottery Here!

Preschool and Mom & Tots Story Hour

Every Tuesday @ 12:30 – 1:30

SUMMER READING

June 6 through July 18 Closed July 4

Every Tuesday @ 12:30 p.m. in the park E-book and E-audio now available

Current Churches of Oneida County

Victory Baptist Church

Victory Baptist Church, affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, started its humble beginnings in a local resident’s home in 1992. From there, the location of the worship service was moved three times until 2010, when the congregation finally got its own new church building to worship in located at 448 S. Main Street under the direction of Pastor Jack Harwell.

Pastor Harwell and congregation invite all to join with them for their Sunday morning Bible study held from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., Sunday worship service from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., Sunday evening Bible study from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Wednesday night prayer meeting from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. For more information, contact Pastor Harwell at 766-4286.

First Presbyterian Church

The First Presbyterian Church in Malad City began in 1877, when the people invited the pastor of the Corinne Presbyterian Church to hold preaching services here. The church was then formally organized in 1884. In 1878 the original Presbyterian Mission School was started and it was successfully

run until 1908.

Of great interest to the people of Malad in 1884 was the purchase and installation of the historic church bell. It is one of the oldest, if not the oldest in Idaho. This bell tolled for fires, deaths, the community’s joys, alarms and tragedies, such as the 1908 flood, for over a century. The bell also dramatically rang on V-E day and again on V-J

Catholic Community

The St. Paul Catholic Mission, part of The Good Shepherd Catholic Community out of Soda Springs, Idaho, conducts Catholic Mass every Sunday in Malad at 5:00 p.m. at the church located at 233 Samaria Lane. All are welcome.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

day. Almost the sole function of the bell today is that of calling worshippers to church.

Worship service is still held in the historic old building located on 7 South Main Street (on the hill behind Allen Drug) in Malad on Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Junior Church is provided for the youth. Visitors are welcome. For more information, please contact Scott Treasure at 766-3581 or Edna Palmer at 766-2777.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints holds meetings at five locations in Oneida County. Three churches are located in Malad City. The first location is at the New Stake Building located at 1250 N. 1100 W. The second location is the 2nd Ward Tabernacle located at 20 S. 100 W. (next to the Malad City Park) and the third location is at 400 N. 200 W. (across from the Malad Elementary School). Three buildings host three Wards that have meetings at the following times: Sacrament Meeting - 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.; Primary and Sunday School/Priesthood and Relief Society at 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Malad Single Young Adults meet at 1 Jenkins Avenue and The Holbrook Ward in Holbrook, Idaho both meet for Sacrament meeting at 10:00 a.m., with Sunday School/ Priesthood/Relief Society and/or Primary following.

The historic 2nd ward tabernacle is the location of many of the festival events

The First Presbyterian Church is one of the older churches in Idaho

Fishing spots located throughout Oneida County

Oneida County waterways are known to be among the best in Idaho and are open all year-round.

Idaho's Free Fishing Day is an annual event held the second Saturday every June. For 2023, the free fishing day will be Saturday, June 10. All anglers, residents and nonresidents, can celebrate the day by fishing Idaho's waters without a license. If you've never been fishing, Free Fishing Day is also a great day to learn. Fish and Game personnel and volunteers set up several free events at local fishing waters throughout the state to help first-timers discover the joys of fishing.

Unless otherwise specified below, at all fishing spots in Oneida County, trout limit is six, all species combined, including brown trout, lake trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and trout hybrids.

All seven Oneida County reservoirs were planted in 2022 and some have already been planted for 2023 and are reflected in this article.

Please check with the Idaho Fish and Game website for special rules in 2023 for further details.

Daniels Reservoir

Daniels Reservoir is designated as ‘trophy trout waters’ yielding good trophy-size fish. Daniels has one of the most dependable water supplies in the county. It is stocked by IDFG with catchable-size kamloops rainbows. Special fishing restrictions apply at this reservoir. Fishing with bait is not allowed. Artificial flies and lures, and barbless hooks can be used. Only one line is allowed when ice fishing. Trout limit is two and none under 20 inches in size can be taken.

On May 25, 2023, Daniels was stocked with 20,066 Rainbow trout (less than 6 inches).

Besides fishing, Daniels offers a quiet, out-of-the-way place to camp. There is a boat ramp and dock and toilets are available.

Deep Creek Reservoir

Deep Creek Reservoir currently only allows bank fishing. No boats or watercraft of any kind are allowed on the reservoir because of the invasive mussel threat.

Of all the reservoirs in the county, Deep Creek is the most subject to drought because it is almost totally reliant on spring runoff to fill. However, even in drought years when water levels are down, fishing is gener-

ally good. As a result of heavy spring precipitation, the levels are high this year.

Deep Creek has been planted with rainbow trout to go along with the native cutthroat that are already there. The bag limit is six trout total, and only two can be cutthroat and there are no bait restrictions.

Open year around, there is a fishing restriction between May 1 and June 14, as it is closed from the mouth of First Creek for a radius of 50 yards into the reservoir to protect the native cutthroats preparing for their spawning runs.

Deep Creek was last stocked in May of 2023, with 1,000 Rainbow trout (6+ inches) and on May 2023.

Devil Creek Reservoir

(Family Fishing Waters)

Located north of Malad City, Devil Creek is considered family fishing waters.

Well-developed camping facilities are provided along the western shores of the reservoir and it is equipped with boat docks, ramp, toilets and is ADA accessible. Devil Creek is also open to water skiing.

Devil Creek provides some of the best trout fishing in this region. This typical southeast Idaho reservoir is stocked heavily with catchable-size rainbow trout. Most anglers fish from boats or on the bank around the dam.

Devil Creek is planted with two species of rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon. Largemouth bass are also present, and if you are lucky, you may catch a native cutthroat trout. In 2023, the reservoir was stocked in May with 2,161 Rainbow trout (6+ inches). In June of last year, the reservoir was stocked with 2,178 Rainbow trout (6+ inches); 7,000 Kokanee (less than 6 inches); in September with 7,629 Rainbow trout (6+ inches); 5,150 Rainbow trout (6+ inches) and in November with 309 Rainbow trout (6+ inches).

Fishermen may use Devil Creek Reservoir year round, but should be aware of the fishing restriction from the mouth of Devil Creek for a radius of 50 yards into the reservoir between May 1 and June 14. This restriction is there to protect the native cutthroat that are staging for their spawning runs. Bag limit is six trout and only two can be cutthroat.

Crowther’s Reservoir

(Family Fishing Waters)

Just a small family fishery on the northern outskirts of Malad City, Crowther’s Reservoir is stocked by IDFG annually with catchable size rainbow trout. Largemouth bass and bluegill are also present. General fishing seasons, dates, possession limits and rules apply to its waters. Six trout and six bass are allowed with no special rules. There is no limit on other species, and year round fishing is available.

Crowthers was last stocked on May 4, 2023, with 1,110 Rainbow trout (6+ inches).

There is no boat dock or ramp at Crowther’s Reservoir. Toilets are available.

Pleasantview Reservoir

Pleasantview is actually two bodies of water, but the majority of fishing is done on the upper body. Because it is the most shallow, local fishermen say this reservoir is better if fished early, as the water will warm up when the summer grows hot, then the fish seem to soften.

IDFG plants the waters with rainbow trout every year. Records indicate that Upper Pleasantview was last stocked on May 24, 2023

with 1,500 Rainbow trout (6+ inches). Lower Pleasantview has not been stocked since 2015. There are no special restrictions. A boat ramp is available but no other facilities.

Stone Reservoir

With a constant water source, the Stone Reservoir fills early and maintains its supply. For this reason, it is a popular place to go water skiing in Oneida County. Fishing consists mainly of rainbow trout, which are planted by IDFG, but there are also largemouth bass, crappies and yellow perch in its waters. The reservoir was last stocked with Rainbow trout on March 31, 2020 with 2,000 Rainbow trout (6+inches). It was also stocked on April 8, 2019 with 3,000 Rainbow trout (6+ inches).

The Stone Reservoir is maintained under the direction of the U.S. Forest Service with a campground within close proximity. It has boat ramps and toilets available.

Weston Reservoir

Located in eastern Oneida County, Weston Reservoir is a favorite fishing spot for locals as well as for out-of-state fishermen. With year round fishing regulations, there are usually fishermen on its shores winter and summer. No fishing is allowed from boats or rafts; however float tubes are allowed. Among

the locals, the joke is: “If all else fails, the perch are probably biting at Weston.” Usually, all it takes is a can of worms and a little time to be successful here.

Though known for yellow perch, there are also rainbow trout, largemouth bass and bluegill in its waters. Stocked annually by IDFG, fishing at Weston is a pleasant experience. Perch and bass reproduce on their own. From April 26 to May 16, 2023, Weston was stocked with a total of 3,000 Rainbow trout (6+ inches).

Fishing for bass is catch-andrelease only from January 1 to June 30. There is a restriction on bass between July 1 to December 31, with a bass limit of 2 and none between 12 and 16 inches.

Little Malad River

For those interested in catfishing, the Little Malad River was stocked on July 24, 2019 with 1,980 Channel Catfish (6+inches).

INFORMATION - For further information regarding fishing rules and regulations, please contact Idaho Fish and Game Officer Kyle Christiansen at 208-851-1957, or call Idaho Fish and Game at 208-232-4703, or obtain information at www.fishandgame.idaho.gov.

Trophy fish are routinely pulled out of Oneida County waters, such as this one from Pleasantview Reservoir

Items

Musical

Clothing

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed in Winter Months

Enjoy Malad parks and the Legrande Aqua Plunge

For the enjoyment of Oneida County residents and visitors to Malad, two parks are available for picnics, playing ball and walking. All parks are equipped with restrooms, picnic tables and water. The swimming pool has a small adjacent park convenient for small parties.

City Park

The Malad City Park, 41 South 100 West, is located adjacent to the Oneida County Free Library. A children’s playground is included in the park with a variety of children’s outdoor toys and a large sandlot. New this year will be a large pickleball complex, which will open for the fourth of July.

For parties and picnics, a large pavilion with many tables is available. A smaller pavilion has been added in the Greenbelt.

The park has three ball fields, including a small one near the children’s playground for the enjoyment of visitors and residents who reserve the park and pavilion, unless Little League games are being played.

A splash pad was constructed in 2021 and is now available to the public. It will be located on the northwest side of the main pavilion. The splash pad is at the northwest side of the complex, and is open during daytime hours.

New horseshoe pits have been constructed just south of the new pavilion in the area of the small walking path. Ping pong tables are also available in this area. To obtain paddles and balls, contact the Malad City office at 208-766-4010. Along this same area is an outdoor basketball court, and an outdoor fitness area. The fitness area will be open to all residents, but is being built mainly for senior members of the community.

A walking path adjoins the park where people can walk, rollerblade, or ride bicycles. Walking dogs on a leash is requiredplease clean up after your pets!

Electricity is available at the pavilions.

Those who reserve the Malad City Park are encouraged to inquire at the Malad City office if any ball games are scheduled for the day they want the park. Reservations can be made for this park with the Malad City Office, 208-766-4010.

Malad Pioneer Park is located on 500 North and 300 West. Softball fields are located adjacent to the park at Harding Field. Electricity is available. Reservations can be made with Oneida County School District office at 208-766-4701.

LeGrande Aqua Plunge

LeGrande Aqua Plunge, a storefront swimming pool, is located at 77 Main Street.

It is open for the summer for lap swimming, water aerobics, swimming lessons and open swimming. The pool normally the first

weekend after high school graduation and closes the weekend before school starts in August.

The community recently planted trees in the City Park

The exterior of Malad’s historic LaGrande Aqua Plunge

The Park is always busy during the summer months

VENDORS FOR MALAD VALLEY

FOOD VENDORS

Taste of Wales (cookies, breads)

Bamma Wamma’s Pop Shop (drinks, treats)

Fish-On (fish and chips)

Fantastic Lemonade and Italian Sodas

Iron Door Smokehouse (pulled pork sandwiches)

K & D Freeze-Dried Snack Shack (freeze dried candy, fruits, vegetables)

Pita Works Grill (gyros, Philly cheese steak)

Swaffles (waffles on a stick)

The Frozen Cow (ice cream)

The Hungry Heifer (hamburgers, hot dogs)

CRAFT VENDORS

Welsh Country Store (books, clothing, mugs, Welsh-themed items)

Campin Cowgirl Clothing

Carla Kelly (novels, hand cream)

Desert Peonies (jewelry, mugs, hair bows)

Ecologic Arts (clothing, purses from alpaca and sheep wool)

Edith’s Collective (home accents, hands-on crafts)

For the Love of Chalk (chalk signs, door wreaths)

Jensen Sister Learning Materials (learning games for kids)

Jo John (recycled wool handcrafts)

Karissa Crowther (Welsh-inspired jewelry, soaps)

Nyna Arts (ponchos, bracelets, back packs, toys)

Oxford Peak Arts Council (sidewalk chalk art, dress-up photos)

Renewal by Andersen (custom window and patio door consultation)

Richard and Sue Robbins (log cabin replicas, afghans, jewelry)

Rodger Bradford (jewelry set with polished stones)

Sherry Stayner Jones (handmade baskets)

Vickie Ingram (aprons, baby items, towels)

Volcano Girls (soap, scrubs made of pumice)

Events in Malad

Exit 13 Antiques

With the recently opened Event Center, Exit 13 Antiques and Collectibles hosts an antique show in the spring and fall. The weekend events primarily include vendors from the southeast Idaho and northern Utah area, selling a wide range of historical antiques, crafts, and collectibles. From furniture to jewelry to classic pop culture items, the show is a curiosity seeker’s delight. Information about upcoming events can be found on the Exit 13 Antiques and Collectibles Facebook page.

Cowboy Poetry

In March, the Iron Door Playhouse hosts the Cowboy Poetry and Western Music event, sponsored by the Cowboy Poets of Idaho and International Western Music Association. The two day event brings in cowboy poets and musicians and storytellers from around the region to entertain audiences with the traditional arts of the western lifestyle. Event details can be found by calling the Iron Door Playhouse at 1-766-4705.

Malad Car Show

For the last 32 years, the first week in June has been the traditional weekend for the Malad Car Show. The show, which awards

prizes in a number of categories covering the range of decades and vehicle types, draws in participants and visitors from all around the west, and even farther flung places. One of the awards given out is for “Longest Drive,” and is sometimes awarded to an attendee from many states away. From restored classics dating back to the 20s to “Modern Marvels,” anyone with a love for the world of cars, motorcycles, campers, and trucks will find something amazing. Street vendor trucks are on hand, and the event is located on Main street, near the Pizza Stop and Malad Drive-In, and the American Legion building for a cold drink.

Extension Office

With the construction of the Event Center, the University of Idaho Agricultural Extension Office and 4-H program have a more permanent home. This has allowed for ongoing classes and events for the community, but also events that are open to the public. Throughout the year, the Extension Office hosts events such agricultural education classes, Ag Expos, and kid-focused fun like the “Bugstravaganza.” The office can be contacted at 1-208-766-2243 for information about events.

Fourth of July Festivities

One of the biggest holidays of the year in Oneida County is Independence Day, which is celebrated with 2 days of events, including a children’s parade and street dance on the 3rd, and a full range of events on the 4th itself, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show. The City Park is generally filled with throughout the day, following the annual Search and Rescue Breakfast and DYW sponsored fun run at daybreak, and the large parade in the early afternoon. During the middle of the day, the Iron Door Playhouse hosts an old-fashioned melodra-

ma indoors and out of the sun. A variety of vendors, musical acts, kids games and races, a water balloon fight, the annual Old West “shootout,” and the always popular Malad’s Got Talent Contest are recurring highlights. As of last year, axe throwing, kickball and softball tournaments, and a homerun derby were added to the mix. The specific schedule of events can be found on the city’s website or inside the June editions of the Enterprise.

Horseracing at the Fairgrounds

Another longstanding tradition are the pari-mutuel races held at the Fairgrounds. This year’s races will be held on August 5 and 6, and then on August 12 and 13. Food vendors are on hand for the event, and a beer booth is run by the American Legion. For some fun betting action, or just to enjoy the thrill of the race, the day is always a good time.

Oneida County Fair

The Oneida County Fair is a chance for everyone from kids to seniors to show off their skills. The Open Class contests include quilting, knitting, crocheting, canning, baking, painting, woodwork, photography, and other arts and crafts. Livestock judging and demonstration events fill the week, with everything from the marquee beef, pig, sheep, and goat judging to poultry judging, dog handling, 4-H demonstrations, and a range of horse events inside the arena.

In addition, the fair promises games and activities for kids throughout the week, a night of Motocross, team roping and branding, a musical performance or two, and additional attractions such as the Scales and Tails reptile show. Food vendors, special events, Lazer Tag and bounce houses are also onhand.

For more information on the Fair schedule, you can call 1-208-766-4706.

Rodeos

Rodeos are a big part of the local scene, with The Oneida Cowboy Classic and Family Fun taking place during the Fair (August 17-19), and the Stone/Curlew Rodeo (July 24 and 25) highlighting the year. From highly skilled professionals to the Family Fun Rodeo, anyone with a love for the sport should put it on their calendar. Information can be found by calling 1-208-766-4706.

Christmas Light Parade and Lightshow

In late December, the annual Christmas Light parade adds a festive glow to downtown as local floats drive a circuit around the downtown area, after which a winter fireworks show and bonfire warm everyone back up at the firestation. New to last year, an LED light display set to Christmas music also brings a modern twist to the old tree lighting tradition. The show runs during the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Live Nativity

The Interfaith Council puts on a Live Nativity program several times during De-

cember. The event features a reading of the story of the nativity, enacted with the help of local youths in the roles of Mary, Joseph, the wisemen, and the shepherds. A choir of “angels” accompany the program as the story progresses. Animals from local ranches are used to add a realistic backdrop to the outdoor stage. The Interfaith Council, a non-profit which seeks to unify the community through faith, hosts other events throughout the year, including lunches and musical performances. Information about events can be found on the “Oneida County Interfaith Council” Facebook page.

Oxford Peak Arts Council and IronDoor Playhouse

Two community theatre companies in town provide a variety of entertainments throughout the year. The Iron Door Playhouse is a historic building on Malad’s Main street, which produces a number of plays and events throughout the year, including the annual Fourth of July melodrama, and productions by both regional and national authors. The Oxford Peaks Arts Council sponsors events throughout the year, including a seasonal musical, and has worked with the Missoula Childrens’ Theatre for the last two years on week long drama camp experiences culminating in full theatrical productions, such as “Alice in Wonderland.”

from around the region.

Oneida County Library

In 2021, the Oneida County Library was named “Library of the Year” for its contributions to the community. Over the course of the year, the Library offers a variety of programs for both kids and adults. Adult education classes on various topics such as “zeroscaping,” personal history writing, and InstantPot cooking are held during the “After Hours” series of evening classes on the 4th Wednesday of the month. Reading con tests and a wide variety of educational and technology classes are offered for kids on an ongoing basis. The library has featured a number of local and regional authors for “au thor’s night,” such as John Olsen, best-sell ing author of the Stranger Bridgerland se ries, and Carolyn Twede Frank, best-selling author of numerous historical romances and fantasy books. The Library also hosts a “Halloween Night” toward the end of Octo ber, featuring discussions of local and global myths and legends with folklorist Elizabeth Kent and others. The library can be reached at 1-208-766-2229 or at oneidacountyli brary.org for information about events.

PTO Halloween Carnival

Utilizing the outdoor and indoor spaces of the Event Center, the PTO Carnival has expanded from its beginnings at the elementary school into one of the community’s largest events. Over the last two years, the Carnival has drawn in hundreds of children from around the valley early in October for games, hayrides, mazes, a haunted house, food, and other delights. The event is a fundraiser for the local PTO, but it also brings in visitors

Samaria Events

A few miles southwest of Malad City is the historic town of Samaria, one of the original sites of settlement in the valley. Sa maria Park is a gathering place in the cen ter of town, which offers a great view of the mountains that share its name, and offers picnic and barbeque facilities for gatherings. The Samaria Days event is held at the park during the summer, and features an auction, games for kids, and community together ness.

The spring and fall seasons are both cel ebrated by festivals held at the Malad Valley Heritage Square. The square is an amazing location to witness the history of early set tlement, and features a number of restored cabins that are among the oldest in the state.

In addition to the historical architecture, the facility also includes an active farm, playground, stage, and space to accommodate hundreds. The spring festival celebrates the new spring animals, allowing kids to interact with them while learning about farm life. The fall festival celebrates the harvest, and includes interactive demonstrations of wool carding and spinning, metalwork, apple juicing, and much more.

A recent addition to the Samaria events is the Renaissance Faire, which began humbly but expanded this year to include a live jousting event with the nationally famous Knights of Mayhem, in addition to medieval and renaissance music, art, dancing, and skill demonstrations.

Samaria also participates in the Fourth of July and Welsh Festival events.

Veterans Memorial

One of the outstanding features of Main street is the Oneida County Veterans Memorial. Just down the block from the historic American Legion building, the Memorial contains the names of all the servicemembers from Oneida County who have served in the armed forces branches from as far back as records could be located up to present. The moving memorial is a somber and impressive testament to the county’s proud military history.

The historic Logan Temple will be the subject of Sunday’s fireside, presented by Robert Washburn

Welsh Festival Sunday Fireside

The Sunday program for the Malad Valley Welsh Festival will feature a presentation about the Logan Utah Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Fireside will be at 5:00 on Sunday, July 2, in the 2nd Ward Building (the church next to Malad City Park).

The presenter will be Robert Washburn, who grew up in Logan. Shortly after he and his wife moved back to Cache Valley, Bob was asked to give a presentation about the history of the Logan Temple. Using information from “Logan Temple: The First 100 years” by Nolan P. Olsen, Bob has prepared slides and commentary about the second temple built in Utah. The temple was dedi-

cated in 1884 by President John Taylor and was rededicated after extensive renovation in 1979 by President Spencer W. Kimball.

For 128 years, from 1884 until 2012 when the Brigham City Utah Temple was dedicated, the Malad Idaho Stake was in the Logan Temple District. Men from Samaria and Malad worked on the Logan Temple, which took seven years to build, almost all by volunteer labor.

Special music will be provided by organist Janice Gill Bunker and by the Malad Valley Men’s Welsh Chorus. Refreshments will be served by the Malad Stake High Council. Everyone is invited to this special program.

The Background of Some of Malad’s historic institutions

• LeGrande Aqua Plunge - Today, the spot where the beautiful LeGrande Dance Hall once stood is a storefront swimming pool. LeGrande Hall was the social center of Malad early in the last century. Norma South, now deceased, recalled, “Every Saturday night and every holiday evening for over 30 years the spacious LeGrande Ballroom was filled to capacity by the young, the handsome and the beautiful of Oneida County and surrounding small towns. The highly polished floor was covered by a high vaulted ceiling and surrounded by benches for spectators. Hanging on the south wall was the unique orchestra box, leaving room for dancing underneath. A large balcony was built above the ticket office, entrance way, and cloak rooms.” The Hall was forced to close in 1924 as interest died and crowds dwindled. Later the dance hall was reopened and used until the 1950’s. The Malad Lions Club spearheaded a project to make it into an indoor swimming pool. In 1980 this pool was covered over with dirt by the city of Malad as repairs to the pool were said to be too costly. The structure was torn down and the plot of ground was made into a small city park. In 1995, under the leadership of a specially formed committee,

the pool was resurrected, but this time as an outdoor pool. Today, this storefront pool serves the public for swimming lessons, water aerobics, and open swimming during summer months. Reservations are also available for large groups for family reunions, parties, etc.

• Evans Co-op Building – Was the hub of the Malad community’s business activity for well over a century. It was Idaho’s oldest department store, with its beginning as a one-room log house in 1865 and was later formed into a cooperative - becoming a branch of ZCMI. The large upstairs has served as a schoolhouse, dance hall, band room, business offices and general meeting hall. The basement rooms hosted one of Idaho’s first bowling alleys, a barbershop, meat market and newspaper.

The building was purchased by Malad City in January of 2019 and will eventually become a new City Hall and office building.

• The Idaho Enterprise – Going into its 144th year of publication, The Idaho Enterprise is Idaho’s oldest continuing newspaper. It was established on June 5, 1879, in Oxford, then part of Oneida County, Idaho. The press was moved to Malad early in the 1880s, and continues publication

today. The publisher is Bryan Dean Scott.

• Hotel Malad on Bannock Street was originally built in the early 1950’s as Hotel Thomas to replace the Great Northern Hotel, which was lost in a fire in 1948. It required fire engines from the Tremonton, Logan and Brigham City fire departments to bring it under control. The old Great Northern Hotel included a cafe and the local Greyhound bus stop.

• The Malad 2nd/4th/5th Ward, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is an early landmark that has served the community since the early 1900’s. Now on the National Historic Registry, it was at one time a stake tabernacle and was first dedicated in 1915. The building contains an auditorium capable of seating 800 people comfortably. There is a pipe organ, a recreation hall and several classrooms. It has a beautiful tower on the northeast corner of the building. Since its construction, it has been remodeled and expanded twice. A highlight of the building is the stained glass windows. Much has been done to preserve and protect these windows. Besides church services, the building has been used for community events such as concerts, talent shows, funerals, weddings and other family celebrations. The Malad

Valley Community Chorus performs a Christmas and spring concert in this building.

• Fairgrounds and Rodeo ArenaLocated south of Malad, on South Main Street, is the home of the Oneida County Fair and Oneida Search and Rescue’s Famous Dutch Oven Breakfast. Next to the Fairgrounds, Malad’s Parimutuel Horses Races are held annually the first two weekends in August, and the Oneida Cowboy Classic Rodeo is held in conjunction with the Oneida County Fair the middle of August. The new Events Center was completed in 2020, which includes office for the Oneida County Extension Service, a meeting room and a large arena where voting will be held and which will be available for large receptions or other meetings.

• Malad Gun Club - Located at the entrance to the Fair Grounds, the Gun Club hosts the Malad Trap Shoot the last two weekends of April and the first weekend in May. In the fall, the Turkey and Fun Shoot is held the Thursday before Thanksgiving.

• Malad is home of Idaho’s continuing oldest Little League Tournament. Held in July, teams from throughout southeast Idaho participate in the three-day event.

Pictured (L to R): Dave Andersen (Napa Store Manager), Piper Wiles, Nathan Jorgensen, Ashley Colgrove, Dave (RD) Larsen, Tayber Wiles, Bill Harrison (General Manager), Bryce Jones, Tim Goodwin, Blaiz Wright, Dillon Smith, Jace Potter, Frank Naylor, Brayten Moon, Chris Carey. Not pictured: Barbara Day.

Pictured (L to R): Dave Andersen (Napa Store Manager), Piper Wiles, Nathan Jorgensen, Ashley Colgrove, Dave (RD) Larsen, Tayber Wiles, Bill Harrison (General Manager), Bryce Jones, Tim Goodwin, Blaiz Wright, Dillon Smith, Jace Potter, Frank Naylor, Brayten Moon, Chris Carey. Not pictured: Barbara Day.

CHAIRS - 2023

Jean Thomas, General Chair

Dotty Evanson, Vice-Chair

Roxanne Albretsen, Secretary/Treasurer

Presentations: Lucie Washburn, Jean Thomas

Poetry Competitions: Mary Alice Telford, Annette Elcock

Fiction Competition: Lucie Washburn

Youth Art Competition: Joan Hawkins

Concerts: Helen Ward, Jean Thomas

Outdoor Music: Sheila Hadden

Wales Photo Display: Bob Crowther

Family History Displays: Sarah and Rex Robbins

Wagon Tours: Monte and Bonnie John

Heritage Games: Kathy Atkinson and MMS MathCounts Team

Kids’ Activities: Crystal Kimberling and After-School Program

Hosts and Hostesses: Paula Hannah

Information Booth: Irene Alder

Vendors: Hailee Hanks, Kelley Neal, Roxanne Albretsen

Welsh Country Store: Alyce Lewis

Taste of Wales Booth: Shantel Tavoian and MHS FCCLA

Technology: Porter Kimberling

Facilities Set Up/Tear Down: Tony McClain, Bill Lewis, BSA

Troop #176

Fund Raising/Grant Writing: Jean Thomas

Publicity: Jean Thomas, Brandon Hall

Photographer: Lloyd Bush, Brandon Hall’

City Contact: Joan Hawkins, Susan Wittman

Liaison with Samaria: Luke Waldron

Liaison with Oneida Quilters: Sharon Harris

Liaison with Museum: Shelia Hawkins

Liaison with Oxford Peak Arts Council: Careen Hornecker

Liaison with LDS Church: Cory Daniels, Steve Daniels

Liaison with Presbyterian Church: Toni Werk

Webmaster: Sarah Sayler

2022 BARD OF THE MALAD VALLEY WELSH FESTIVAL

COMING HOME

by Lamonte John

There’s hardly a phrase in this language of ours or in any a lengthy tome

That brings more joy to the human heart than to say, “I’m coming home.”

My first recollection of experiencing that joy was when I was off to college

A time zone away and far to the north; I was trying to gain more knowledge.

But I missed my mates and my family, too, and especially my sweetheart I missed,

So at Thanksgiving break, I sped down the road, looking forward to a welcome home kiss.

The time slipped by; we married soon after, and then we started our crew

Of four little boys full of mischief and laughter, intermixed with adventurous brew.

We lived closer now, and from Utah to home was a short little drive up the road,

And homesick feelings of being too far away were something that never we showed.

Then the circumstances of life took a changing turn, moving us far, far away

To the other side of this beautiful land and the question of how long we’d stay.

Some thought it short, and some thought it long; some weren’t sure what to think.

In the end it seemed longer than we ever imagined, but the time hurried by in a blink.

We were there so long that it became home, and where we longed for had shifted

To the woods of Virginia near the Capitol city; our interests apparently had drifted.

For 30 years plus, we planned most of our summers with intent on traveling west

To unite with our family – the young and the old – but now we felt more like guests.

It was great to see all and catch up on news, and sometimes we wouldn’t want to leave,

But our homesick hearts had now shifted east, a concept not previously conceived.

And late in my life, I had the good fortune to connect with some family long lost

In the country of Wales, where my ancestors started before the ocean they crossed.

Families were split with some left behind, and no plan was ever thought viable

To reunite in the future, with travel so difficult and communication so unreliable.

Fast forward a century, or maybe more, and the tools of communication are vast

To facilitate connection with the family that was split and seemingly lost in the past.

It sparked an interest in my ancestral homeland, a place that I’ve still never walked.

It created curiosity in my forebearers’ past, a subject about sometimes we talked.

So I dug even deeper, with my cousins in Wales, and learned much more than I knew

About the place where it started many centuries ago, and now with a much better view,

Using tools of the day, I was able to find the streets of the villages and towns

Where my grandfathers walked in their early days while still being subjects of the crown.

I considered the stories, both written and verbal, of their courage in starting anew

In a land far away, where freedom was found, which today blesses me and blesses you.

My newly found clan sent me records and photos of gravestones of ancestors past,

In the churchyard plot where they prayed each week ‘til finally the day was their last.

So I’ve come to feel affinity, to that country afar, I can say that without any strife,

And I hope someday to make a pilgrimage there to complete my circle of life.

Welsh Festival Bard

Beginning in the 1100s, groups of traveling bards would congregate in Wales to entertain each other with songs and poetry. In 1176 Lord Rhys invited poets and musicians from all over Wales to a grand gathering at his castle in Cardigan, where a chair at the Lord’s table was awarded to the best poet and musician, a tradition that continues today.

The modern eisteddfod (meaning “to sit together”) evolved from its ancient beginnings and has been held every year since the early 1800s except for 1914 and 1940 due to the World Wars. The Gorsedd of Bards was formed in 1819 as an association of poets, writers, musicians, and artists. Its members are known as druids, hearkening back to the pagan history of Wales when druids were the religious leaders of the country.

Every year the winner for best long

poem receives an ornately carved chair as the coveted first prize. All poems must be written in the difficult Welsh language and in the Welsh poetic form. Pageantry and tradition are part of the Chairing of the Bard with the Archdruid waving his 9-foot sword over the winning poet. The writer of the best poem in free meter receives a crown, and the winner of the prose competition receives a medal.

The Malad Valley Welsh Festival is not an eisteddfod although music and poetry are major parts of the event. The Archdruid is replaced by a Knight of the Festival, who escorts the winning Bard to the stage. The beautifully carved chair remains with the Festival with the Bard presiding at the next year’s Festival from the Bard’s Chair. The Bard receives a medal.

The Patsy Price Scott Poetry Prize is named for a winning poet who lived her

So now we’ve returned to the valley of Malad where, for both of us, life had its start;

Where we lived and we laughed and we learned a lot about what to keep in our heart--

Like the families that raised us and the values they taught, the lessons we’ll never forget,

And the lifelong images of good friends and teachers; forever we’ll be in their debt.

And then there’s the “village” from a now-distant state, who loved us right from the start,

And the ones who came later and enriched our lives; forever they’ll be in our heart.

And what of my family from a far distant land, the ones whom I’ve yet to embrace?

Won’t they be part of my life from now on and something I can never erase?

So what’s the solution; can I figure it out, which of these places to call home?

It’s a question I’ve been pondering and hoping I could answer by the final line of this poem.

But failing all that, I think the solution is to not give it any more thought;

Perhaps it’s best just to bask in life’s blessings and to give thanks for all that I’ve got.

For indeed, I’ve been blessed from the very start with abundant influences for good;

And to think I’d call home, just one of these places; it’s selfish to think that I could;

And so for today I’m happy to say that my home is wherever I’m standing.

With more than six decades of life’s lessons learned, I’m happy today notwithstanding.

My Welsh heritage tells me that all things are possible, and no matter how far I can roam,

It’s the loved ones around me who show me they care that tell me for sure that I’m home.

entire life in Malad Valley. Her family established the Prize when she died a few years ago. The winner of the Prize receives a Welsh-themed decorative plate.

Monte John, the 2022 Bard of the Malad Valley Welsh Festival, will preside at this year’s Festival. Past Bards are Jan Crowther Myers (2017), Dotty Evanson (2018), and Cory Webster (2019-2021). This year’s theme for poetry was “Kindness.”

The Bard Chair is the symbolic and honorary seat of the reigning Bard of the Festival. This year, Monte John will be handing over his title to the winner of the poetry contest

The Oneida County Fair Board Invites You To Enjoy These Events In 2023

• Rodeo Queen Contest June 15

• Pari-mutuel horse races August 5 & 6 and 12 & 13

• Oneida County Fair August 14 – 19

Judging and Entries, Open Class, Vendors, Kids’ Activities Daily, and Rodeos

• Motocross and Small Fireworks Show August 14

• Team Roping August 15

• Team Branding August 16

• Oneida Cowboy Classic Rodeo

August 17

• Oneida Cowboy Class Rodeo and Scales & Tails August 18

• Oneida County Family Fun Rodeo August 19

Sidelights on Malad History

Some interesting and amusing items were found in the 1938 edition of The Idaho Enterprise regarding Oneida County and Malad City.

• Oneida County is 26th in area among Idaho’s 44 counties.

• Teachers’ salaries in Oneida County in 1887 were very meager. Among the lowest was one teacher who received $60 cash and board for six months. Another received $50 cash and board for nine months.

• Following is the exact wording of a resolution passed by the Board of County Commissioners in 1866:

“Whereas there has as yet been no desks furnished for the District Clerk, County Clerk, Sheriff or Treasurer; and whereas the desk provided for the county auditor is sufficiently large to accommodate each of the above named officers, it is therefore ordered that each of the above named officers be allowed equal use of said desk in the Auditor’s office for depositing their books and papers until such time as suitable desks are furnished.”

• When Oneida County consisted of most of southeastern Idaho, court terms at Malad were lengthy; and the only occupation of some citizens was “sitting on the jury”.

• The Idaho Enterprise published at Malad and established in 1879 is one of the oldest weekly papers in Idaho. The paper was started at Oxford by J.A. Straight and was moved to Malad in 1882.

• Malad’s early history was somewhat turbulent. There were many stage robberies, a few murders and one lynching.

• In the Oneida County courthouse were argued the early irrigation suits, which have become precedents for Idaho’s irrigation decisions. Senator Borah was among many prominent Idaho lawyers who appeared in suits here in the early days.

• The first white child born in the Malad Valley was Emmeline Eliza Waldron, daughter of Benjamin and Emmeline Waldron, born October 9, 1856 at what was then known as Oregon Springs (Old Fort). David R. Thomas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Thomas was born on September 30, 1864, the first white child born in what are now the city limits of Malad. The first white girl born in the section that is now Malad City was Laura McAllister, daughter of James and Elizabeth McAllister who was born on September 6, 1865.

For more information contact Diane Skidmore at 208-766-4116 ext 114, or any board member Chairman Ken Moss Jr., Vice chair Patrick Werk, Kacey Keller, Todd Thomas, Lacey Clark, Eric Eliason, John Hardy

2023

• The last division of Oneida County was in 1913 when Franklin and Oneida counties were created.

• In 1866, the county seat of Oneida County was brought to Malad City from Soda Springs.

Colen Sweeten, Jr. (1919-2007)

As mentioned elsewhere in this publication, Colen Sweeten, Jr. was one of Oneida County’s most famous and well-loved residents. Raised in Holbrook and attending school in Malad, Colen was a farmer, poet, historian and most importantly, “character.” For many, he captures the slightly irreverent but always thoughtful spirit of the valley. He was a noted speaker and historian but the role closest to his heart was that of Cowboy Poet. He was a member of the Cowboy Poets of Idaho and Utah and published five books of poetry. He received many awards for his work including the Idaho "Gov-

George and I came home from the war With some ideas we had found. Some new inventions we had seen Since we had been around.

George liked one, the neatest thing Since they had invented soap. Before they called it bungie cord, We just called it “rubber rope”.

We used it to tighten tarps And for holdin’ down loose hay. It was pretty handy stuff, Then, an idea struck one day.

Ted was a smart, old saddle horse That didn’t like to be caught. Especially when the work was hard Or the day was long and hot.

He’d come into the corral To cool off with a drink. But make one move toward the gate, He’d leave quicker than a wink.

George said, “I’ll teach that

ernor's Millennial Award for Excellence in the Arts," in the year 2000; the Idaho State Historical Society's 2005 "Esto Perpetua Award" for outstanding accomplishments in preserving Idaho's heritage; the American West Heritage Foundation's 2004 "Pioneer Skill Preservation Award;" the Cowboy Poets of Utah 2006 "Pioneer Heritage Award" and was nominated for the National Commission on the Arts "Award for Excellence in Literature."

Printed here is one of his best-remembered poems.

horse a lesson, He won’t be near so wise. When I use that rubber rope on him, He’s in for a big surprise.”

He made a rubber lasso rope And to make sure it didn’t slip, He tied some big knots in the end Just to guarantee his grip.

He hid out by the gate And when Ted came out on a run, He threw a loop over his head And waited for the fun.

He caught Ted around the shoulders And his cowboy logic just didn’t see, That speedy little pony Weighed five times as much as he.

With his boot heals dug into the dirt He gripped the knots with all his might, Then the rubber rope ran out of stretch And George began his flight.

Come to think of it, That horse did show some surprise. George was out in front again, He came sailin’ through the skies.

The horse whirled and started back. Now, going twice as fast. He was almost back to the gate When George came flying past.

Now that horse was all confused, He didn’t know which way to run. This game could go on and on, ‘till the setting of the sun.

So Ted just stood there and quivered While George got his arms back in socket. He’d had about all he wanted, He was tired of playing rocket.

Ted was always hard to catch, But George was wiser than the start. Just one lesson from a bungie chord Can make a cowboy pretty smart.

Oneida Pioneer Museum

The earliest records of the ONEIDA PIONEER MUSEUM date back to 1935 when Miss Hattie Morgan collected her own mementos and, with the help of the Native Daughters of the Idaho Pioneers, put together a collection of artifacts and antiques and displayed them in an old cabin on her property. It was known as the “Relic Room.” When the cabin was torn down, the relics were stored in basements and sheds. In 1964, as part of the centennial celebration of Malad City, the Museum came back to life. Spearheaded by Mrs. Annella Jones Price and the NDIP, the Museum grew in scope and variety and in the ensuing years was housed in several different places.

At last, in 1992, the Museum found a home in the R.B. Davis building in downtown Malad City. Built in 1914 as a drug store, the R.B. Davis building had a boarding house on the top floor, a variety and drug store on the main floor, and a barbershop in the basement. The original pressed tin ceiling and safe are still featured in the Museum. Over the years, the building has housed a Sears Catalog Outlet, a State Liquor Store, a dentist office, and an ice cream parlor. In 2013 the R.B. Davis family deeded the building to the Oneida County Relic Preservation and Historical

Society. The Museum now has a permanent home.

The Museum has “the best collection of pioneer-era crayon portraits in the State,” according to a member of the Idaho Heritage Trust. Preservation of portraits is an ongoing project.

Have Fun While Visiting Oneida County!

The Museum’s large collection of clothing and quilts has recently been evaluated, repaired, and preserved. Soon a storage room on the top floor will house much of the collection, making it easier to switch out the displays.

One of the Museum’s recent accom-

plishments is the identification of 20 historic sites in downtown Malad. Historic markers have been placed at most of the sites, and a self-guiding tour map of the sites is available at the Museum. The Historic Marker Committee has already identified 25 additional sites to be researched and marked.

The Museum’s collection of books, journals, histories, photographs, and other documents will begin to be organized and archived this summer as another ongoing project.

The Museum accepts donations to its collection as long as the donated item has provenance in Oneida County and is at least 50 years old. Preference is given to items from the pioneer era.

The Museum is governed by a 13-member Board. All Board members serve on committees that oversee preservation projects, maintenance and remodeling of the building, window displays, historic markers, social media and publicity, and the electronic catalog. Each Board member volunteers at least one day as a host or hostess during the summer.

The “Friends of the Museum” solicits funds for the Museum through its annual campaign. Levels of membership are the following:

Oneida County Event Center

Oneida County boasts a modern meeting and event facility, located at 459 S Main Street next to the Fairgrounds in Malad.

The Event Center features a Wi-Fi enabled conference room with telecommunications capability, large HDMI enabled monitors, and other accommodations.

The Center also features a full service kitchens for food preparation and storage.

The indoor arena can be utilized for a range of activities, from catered banquets, to dances and concerts, expositions, athletic events, and others. Since it opened, the arena has been used for award ceremonies, 4-H

and FFA projects, the Oneida County Fair, Exit 13 Antique shows, Red Cross blood drives, private weddings and parties, the annual Firemans Ball, the Evening of the Arts fundraiser, the PTO Halloween Carnival, the annual Enterprise Christmas party, and many other large and small scale events.

The Center requires a $250 deposit. The conference room can be rented for $75/ day, and the full facility for $150/day.

Those interesting in renting the facility can contact Shelby Blackner at 1-435-9945228.

Located downtown, the Pioneer Museum is a treasure trove of local history

$25 – Annual

$50 – Handcart

$100 – Covered Wagon

$200 – Stagecoach

$500+ -- Steam Engine

Admission to the Museum is free although donations are welcome. The Museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Tuesdays – Saturdays. Arrangements for tours at other times can be made by calling the Museum at 208-766-9247 during its regular hours.

MUSEUM BOARD MEMBERS

Gloria Jean Thomas, Chair

Bill Lewis, Vice-Chair

Janice Vaughan, Secretary

Julie Willie, Treasurer

Dotty Evanson

Sharon Harris

Joan Hawkins

Lorna Hess

Marvin Hess

Monte John

Elizabeth Kent

Sarah Robbins

Hailey Sweeten

HISTORIC MARKER TRAIL

MAP OF DOWNTOWN MALAD

Historic Walking Tour of Malad Buildings

The Museum’s recent installation of historic markers provide a sense of what the town was like in the past, and how it has changed over time. While few of the buildings on the list are still serving their original purpose, the buildings themselves convey a strong sense of their past. Each of the plaques provides a sense of the building’s original purpose and history over time. Given the relatively small size of Malad’s downtown, a stroll from plaque to plaque shouldn’t be overly taxing on one’s time or stamina. The museum plans to expand the number of sites which are labelled in the future.

As the 13th largest state in the U.S., Idaho produces 72 types of precious and semi-precious stones. Some of these stones can be found nowhere else in the world, which is why our great state is known as The Gem State.

Population: 1,896,625

Land Area: 83,557 square miles

Capital City: Boise

Highest Elevation: 12,662 feet, Mt. Borah

Lowest Elevation: 738 feet, Lewiston, Idaho

Water Area: 823 square miles

River Miles: 3,100 miles, more than

Facts about Idaho

any other state

State Flag and Seal: A silk flag, with a blue field, 5 feet 6 inches high, 4 feet 4 inches on pike is bordered by gilt fringe 2 1/2 inches wide, with the State Seal of Idaho in the center. The words "State of Idaho" are embroidered in gold block letters two inches high on a red band below the Great Seal. It was adopted by the 1907 legislature. The state seal was designed by Emma Edwards Green.

State Flower: The Syringa (Philadelphus lewisii)

The syringa was designated the state flower of Idaho by the legislature in 1931.

It is a branching shrub up to 12 feet tall with clusters of white, fragrant flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The blossoms are similar to the mock orange, have four petals, and the flowers grow at the ends of short, leafy branches.

State Bird: The Mountain Bluebird (Sialia arctcia)

The mountain bluebird was adopted as the state bird for Idaho by the state legislature in 1931. The Bluebird is about seven inches long, has an azure blue coat, and a blue vest with white under-feathers. The mother bird wears a quiet blue-gray dress and usually lays six or seven blue-white eggs. The Bluebird’s nest is usually built in a hollow tree or in a crevice. The Bluebird is very neat about its home and carries all refuse some distance from the nest.

State Tree: The Western White Pine (Pinus Monticola pinaceae)

Our state tree is probably most notable since the largest remaining stand of this timber in the United States grows in the northern part of Idaho. Tall and slender, the Western White Pine is native to forests of the Pacific Northwest from British Columbia to Montana and as far south as central California. It has blue-green needles, slender cones and can grow to 100 ft. It has many other fine qualities such as straight grain and soft, even texture. The Western White Pine was named Idaho’s state tree in 1935.

State Horse: Appaloosa

The Appaloosa was the first horse breed to be acquired by the Nez Perce tribe around the 1700’s leading to the tribe developing into excellent horsemen and breeders. Settlers began to refer to their horses as “a Palouse horse” in reference to the Palouse River in north Central Idaho. The term evolved from that to “Palousey”, “Appalousey” and finally “Appaloosa”. An Appaloosa Horse Club was chartered in 1938 and has become one of the leading equine breed registries in the world. The Appaloosa was named Idaho’s state horse in 1975 because of its importance to Idaho history.

State Fruit: Wild Huckleberry

State Fish: Cutthroat Trout

State Gem: Star Garnet

State Dance: Square Dance

State Motto: “Esto Perpetua” meaning “It is perpetual.”

Unlike many states that became overcrowded megalopolises, in the 120 years since Idaho became a state, it has largely remained clean, un-crowded and unspoiled. Although the state is more than a century old, many people are unaware of several interesting bits of facts concerning this state.

• Gold occurs in some form in nearly all the counties of Idaho.

• Between 1863, when Abraham Lincoln signed the bill making Idaho a territory, and statehood in 1890, the territory had 16 governors, four of whom never set foot in Idaho.

• Idaho is larger in size than the states of New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts and New Hampshire - all combined.

• One of the largest diamonds ever found in the United States, weighing nearly 20 carats, was discovered in Idaho near McCall.

• Idaho is located exactly half-way between the Equator and the North Pole.

• If the state of Idaho were flattened out, it would be larger than the state of Texas.

• The Salmon River in Idaho is the longest river in the United States that is located entirely within the borders of one state.

• Idaho is the only state in the nation bounded by six states and a foreign country - Montana and Wyoming on the east, Utah and Nevada on the south, Oregon and Washington on the west, and Canada on the north.

• The world’s first nuclear power plant is located at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory near Arco.

Western White Pine

Mountain Bluebird

When Malad became the county seat in 1866, business picked up. With stage lines and freighters on their way north to Montana gold mines, and new families moving in every year, Malad became a boomtown. In 1864, the Ben Holliday Stage Line went through Malad, headed northwest over Bannock Mountain to Ross Fork. In 1865, the route was changed to run north to the Portneuf Road and on to Ross Fork. Malad pioneers built homes along both routes. Main Street running north and Bannock Street running northwest still mark the old freight and stage routes. The city center is at the fork of these two routes.

MALAD CITY

This town, settled by Mormons in 1864, received its name from the nearby Malad River. The stream was known among the early fur traders and trappers as “Sickly Waters”, “Sick River”, or “Malad.” There are several versions of just how this came about.

Trappers became violently ill from eating the beaver caught in this stream. It was thought this was caused because the beaver had been on a diet of wild parsnip, common to the area, which did not harm the beaver but was very harmful to those who partook of the flesh of the beaver. Some reports are, the sickness was caused by drinking the waters of the stream near the salty mineral springs between Malad City and the present Utah state line. At any rate, the name stuck. Another river in Idaho, near Bliss, also bears the name of Malad.

In the summer of 1843 John C. Fremont’s party of 39 men passed the spot where Malad City now stands and found a small encampment of Indians who were not very well fed. Fremont commented on the disappearance of the herds of buffalo caused by the trappers and buffalo hunters who had been so active in these valleys since the establishment of Fort Hall in 1834. When Fremont attempted to buy food from the Indians here, they opened their blankets, showing their starved bodies.

CORBETT’S STATION

In the 1870s, this was a stage station in what was then Oneida County. It was named for Mrs. Elmira Corbett who was postmistress and operator of the Inn Langley.

WOODRUFF

This Mormon community, on the southern end of the Malad Valley, was called Muddy Creek, after the creek by the same name that went through it, by its first residents. The name came from the heavy spring runoffs that caused the water in the creek to be dirty. In 1891 it was renamed Woodruff, for Wilford Woodruff, one time

president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

CHERRY CREEK

At one time the Cherry Creek LDS Ward consisted of four villages, namely, Two-Mile Creek, Willow Springs, Cherry Creek and Henderson Creek. Each village grew up around a spring that flowed from the mountains to the east. No one knows for sure how Cherry Creek got its name, but it is assumed it came from the choke cherry trees that are abundant in the area. Cherry Creek as a settlement dates back to 1865.

HENDERSON CREEK

In the spring of 1869, when David Jones went to Malad Valley, there were two houses on Muddy Creek and five on Henderson Creek. Henderson Creek was named after a man by that name. Henderson was not a permanent settler, but came up to Malad Valley to raise grain. The first permanent settlers were two men, named respectively Powell and Murdock. The small farming area between Woodruff and Cherry Creek took on the name of the creek that ran through it.

ST. JOHN

This farming community is located northwest of Malad City. Tradition has it that LDS Apostle Lorenzo Snow had traveled from Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1875 to dedicate a cemetery here. As he was preparing to give the prayer, he asked what name had been chosen. No one knew, but someone suggested Saint John. Everyone agreed, so the name was adopted for the cemetery, the community and the LDS Ward.

DANIELS

Located about twenty miles northwest of Malad City, Daniels is in farming coun try originally known as the “head of the Malad”.

PLEASANTVIEW

Nestled at the foot of the mountains on the west side of the Malad Valley, it is said this rural Mormon settlement was named for its location, which commands a fair view of Malad Valley. As the story goes, a Sunday School was being orga nized on August 31, 1890. At this meet ing, the name of the Sunday School and the community was suggested by Sarah Jones, wife of Lewis D. Jones, the first Sunday School Superintendent. She is said to have gone out on the porch of the home they were meeting in and looked over the valley and exclaimed, “Oh what a pleasant view!” Everyone agreed and it has been known by that name ever since.

GWENFORD

John Jones, who settled here in 1890, applied for and was granted a post office

in 1896, which he named for his daughter Gwen. This early settlement was located between Pleasant view and Samaria.

SAMARIA

A Mormon settlement of 1868, located in the southwest corner of the Malad Valley, this community was once bigger than Malad. Early records indicate that the Bible inspired its name -- that it was named after the famed Good Samaritan because of the love and charity exhibited by its early pioneer settlers. The year that Samaria got its name Elder Lorenzo Snow, then of the Council of the Twelve Apostles, made a trip to the little community to form a Ward, give advice on community and family living, and to form a town site. He instructed Elder Price, one of the settlement’s founders, to make square blocks with wide streets following the pattern set by Brigham Young in Salt Lake City. To beautify the valley he gave each family some seeds that he had brought from Italy to be planted on the west side of each field. The seeds were Lombardy poplar and were supposed to help protect the crops from the hot, scorching sun and wind, and also reach up high enough to receive moisture from the air for the fields.

RIDGEDALE

Over the hill in Pocatello Valley, this place was so named in 1914 because the first settlers located on a ridge above the spring in a dale.

HOLBROOK

This rural farming community, in the

western end of Oneida County, took its name from its post office and a church leader. Tradition has it that the post office, established here in 1902, was called Holbrook, for Heber A. Holbrook, the local Mormon bishop. The settlement of Holbrook dates back to the year 1878, when a Mr. Joyce arrived here and built a rock house in which to shelter and protect his family from the wild animals and Indians.

STONE

Renelle Skidmore from Stone indicates that her father told her that Stone was named after a Mr. Stone who had some connection with the Postal Service. He was in Stone sometime after 1880 and before 1900. On the 1880 census it is called Carlew, Oneida, Idaho. It was probably supposed to Curlew rather than Carlew. The Curlew Valley consists of Snowville, Stone and Holbrook. Snowville was called Curlew, Box Elder, Utah. To further corroborate this story, she relates that in approximately 1998 she met a man by the name of Ron Stone who lives in Eagle, Idaho. He told her that Stone was named after his grandfather or great-grandfather who came to Stone to set up the Post Office and to be the postmaster.

BLACK PINE

Oneida County towns and settlements The Blue

Lies in Black Pine Valley along Interstate 84. It’s not clear whether the town or the valley first bore the name, which refers to the stands of Black Pine (Pinus Jeffreyi) in the vicinity.

Great recreation trails in Oneida County

The beautiful Malad Valley is nestled in the northern end of the Great Basin and the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Here, the leisure-seeking family finds wide-open spaces, interesting canyons, bubbling springs, limitless hiking, sightseeing and camping opportunities, including many water sports for outdoor enthusiasts. Sportsmen discover excellent fishing in the streams and seven man-made reservoirs throughout Malad Valley. In the fall, hunters stalk upland game birds, waterfowl, and big game animals. Winter finds the valley covered with snow that sends the snowmobilers off across wide open spaces while, Nordic skiers enjoy cross country trails along Malad Valley’s high canyons.

Oneida County has a variety of recreation trails, some of which can be used year round. Most of the recreation trails originate from the four campgrounds located in the County.

Administered by the U.S. Forest Service, Malad Summit Campground (Powerhouse) is open May through October and is located on the top of the Malad Summit. From I-15, exit off-ramp #22 at Devil Creek Reservoir. Follow Old Highway 191 to the top of the Malad Summit and turn right, drive across the bridge over the interstate and follow the road main road to the Summit Campground. It offers 9 single units, 2 double units with 1 group site. Water and restrooms are available. In this area you will find, besides a short scenic drive, trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATVs. This is also a good area for wildlife viewing and bird watching.

Third Creek has a group area administered by the Forest Service, which is open May through October. You can reach Third Creek by taking the second Malad exit, #17, to the Deep Creek road (Weston) where you turn

right off the exit. Follow the Deep Creek Road (Highway 36) to Third Creek. Turn off onto the Third Creek Road and follow the road, basically to the end. An area is available for camping, and from this area, there are many trails available for horseback riding, hiking, ATV’s and winter sports.

Another campground in Oneida County administered by the Forest Service and open May through September, is the Curlew Campground by the Stone Reservoir where there is tent and trailer camping with picnic tables, toilets and drinking water available. The area can be reached in two ways: (1) Take the Snowville, Utah, exit off I-84, northwest of Tremonton, Utah. Go north on paved highway approximately 6.5 miles. Turn left (north) at the Curlew Campground sign and go another .5 mile to the campground. (2) Take exit 13 (Malad City) from I-15. Follow the street off

the exit to the stop sign. Turn left and take the next right. Follow this road (Highway 38) to Holbrook, Idaho, which is 24 miles west of Malad City. Turn south and drive 7.5 miles on paved highway, turn right (west) following the same highway and go 1.7 miles to the Curlew Campground turnoff. Motor homes can make it easily. Besides camping, the area is open to ATVs, biking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing and fishing. This area is located in a portion of the Curlew National Grassland, where watching the sage grouse is very popular during March, April and May, with the peak season being the middle of April.

The above three campgrounds are all administered by the U.S. Forest Service. Reservations for camping can be made at www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

Dry Canyon Campground is a free camp-

The Curlew campground, located in the Curlew National Grassland is a popular spot for watching sage grouse in the spring

ground located in Oneida County along Skyline Road. It is open in the summer months from June through September and offers restrooms and water. The Two Mile Canyon and Skyline Road offer a scenic drive, with hunting, hiking, snowmobiling, horseback riding and ATVs for recreational use and a great area for viewing wildlife and birds. From I-15 take exit 13 into Malad City. Drive from the exit west to the stop sign and turn left. Follow

South Main Street to where it becomes Old Highway 191. Follow Old Highway 191 to Two-Mile Canyon and turn left (east). Continue to follow this road. The road also can lead to Weston, Idaho, by turning left and going east. This road may not be suitable for car travel. Campgrounds are also available at Devil Creek Reservoir and small camping areas are available at Crowther’s Reservoir, Deep Creek Reservoir and Daniels Reservoir. These reser-

voir areas are also popular bird watching areas, especially Daniels Reservoir, where during migration you can look for high numbers of waterfowl (Mallard, American Wigeon, and Northern Shoveler) and waterbirds (American Coot, American White Pelican, and Wilson’s Phalarope). In spring, Sharp-tailed Grouse can be seen on leks nearby. Look for Osprey and Red-tailed Hawk (on power poles). A small Great Blue Heron colony in dead trees at the

northern end of the reservoir can be found. The north end of the lake is the best place for birding.

Other popular areas in Oneida County for horseback riding and hiking are Gardner Canyon located in Southeast Oneida County, Dry Creek located off the Deep Creek Road, and trails leading to Oxford Peak, Elkhorn Peak and Kent’s Peak.

The Oxford Peak in the Caribou National Park area offers a number of hiking trails

Summit campground offers a number of camping units from May through October

Oneida County Cemeteries

In a poem by Colen H. Sweeten, Jr. entitled “Malad”, he notes the following:

“Where the population stays the same While the traffic comes and goes, And the cemetery’s the only part of town That ever really grows.”

That may be true. While it has grown a bit in the last few years, the population of Malad doesn’t grow a lot. Nevertheless, Malad City has purchased additional ground several times to allow for growth at the Malad City Cemetery.

The first city cemetery was started north of Malad City on a little bench near 100 West Street and between 5th and 6th North behind the homes located in that area. It has been stated in some articles that it was moved because it was polluting the water, but other Malad historians believe that the markers were wooden and they burned to the ground and the graves were moved to the new cemetery. However, several residents report that they cannot find those graves of their ancestors in the new cemetery.

Malad City Cemetery

A beautiful spot on the east foothills of Malad City, the cemetery is well cared for and depicts the honor that residents and former residents have for their deceased family and honored veterans. At one time, Memorial Day was one of the biggest holidays in Malad City and surrounding communities. The entire day was usually spent with family members, either at the cemetery or at someone’s home afterward for lunch and visiting. It was a huge reunion of current and former residents. As the adults would visit, the children would run around the cemetery, with one of the most important sites to visit, the L.L. Evans Memorial, which is a chair. We are sure L.L. Evans enjoyed these visits from the little children! In honor of Memorial Day each year, the American Legion Ernest W. Jones Post 65 plans a program complete with military detail. It is held in the center of the cemetery with a speaker and special musical numbers. Included in the ceremony are the presentation of the colors, a firing detail and the playing of “Taps”. This same ceremony is presented by the Malad American Legion at all of the local cemeteries in Oneida County, as well as the Portage, Utah Cemetery and the Plymouth, Utah Cemetery, to honor deceased veterans. Recently, a pavilion and Memorial Bell were added to commemorate veterans and Gold Star families.

The city has an appointed Cemetery Beautification Committee who, along with the city superintendent, continually make improvements to the cemetery. In May of 2011, volunteers working under the direction of the city made a new addition to the cemetery. In commemoration of children who have passed away, the Christmas Box Angel was erected overlooking the Malad Valley. In 2017 a sprinkling system was added.

A roster and map of those buried in the Malad City Cemetery is located at the shed on the north end of the cemetery, making it easy for visitors to find a gravesite.

St. John Cemetery

Located in the community of St. John, most of the early settlers of St. John were buried in the St. John Cemetery. It is not uncommon today for families that have family ties to the community have their loved ones buried in the St. John Cemetery. The cemetery is cared for by residents of the community and is a beautiful, peaceful spot.

Pleasantview Cemetery

The Pleasantview Cemetery is located behind the old LDS Church building in the community of Pleasantview. Again, it was the custom, and still is today, that longtime residents of the community are buried in the community cemetery.

Samaria Cemetery

Located west of the village of Samaria, the Samaria Cemetery is populated by those deceased residents of Samaria. The most famous story regarding the Samaria Cemetery is regarding the man with two headstones, Benjamin Waldron. At about twenty-five years of age, Waldron was hurt in a threshing accident that required the amputation of his leg. He requested that the leg be buried, which it was and a headstone erected showing a leg and the inscription “B.W. October 30, 1878.” However, for weeks afterwards, Waldron suffered with much pain, which he believed was caused by the leg being twisted in the grave. Upon his insistence, the leg was exhumed and sure enough, the leg was buried in a “twisted” manner. It was straightened and re-buried. Mr. Waldron reportedly was

then able to rest more peacefully and eventually adjusted to his impairment. When Benjamin Waldron died in April of 1914, his body was laid to rest at the west end of the Samaria Cemetery, far from his buried leg.

Cherry Creek Cemetery

Built in a beautiful spot in the foothills of southern Oneida County, is the Cherry Creek Cemetery, a pioneer cemetery. People still request to be buried in the Cherry Creek Cemetery. There is no water available for upkeep of grass, but due to the past efforts of the late Cleland Jones and others who helped him, a fence was erected around the cemetery to protect the graves from being broken by grazing cattle.

Holbrook Cemetery

Another community cemetery for the residents of western Oneida County is the Holbrook cemetery, which is located in the western foothills of Oneida County, west of the village of Holbrook.

Stone cemeteries

Three old graveyards are located in Stone, Idaho. Local resident, Aaron Hill, arranged to have the cemeteries fenced with pole fences to protect the graves. One cemetery has no grave markers and the graves cannot be seen. The other two cemeteries have markers. One holds the remains of “Baby Boy Smith”, the son of Jay and Susan Smith and a grave for the “Goss children”, children of Tom and Edith Goss. A separate cemetery holds the remains of the Baggit family.

The recently installed Memorial Bell is a beautiful feature of the Malad City Cemetery