Franklin Relic Hall - Franklin, Idaho

Franklin Relic Hall: A Journey Through Idaho History

For those seeking an immersive experience in Idaho’s rich past, the Franklin Relic Hall stands as a compelling destination. Located at 113 E Main St, Franklin, ID 83237, this historical society and museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of the region. With a phone number of 2086462290 and a comprehensive website at history.idaho.gov, it’s easily accessible for visitors and researchers alike.

What Makes Franklin Relic Hall Special

The Relic Hall is more than just a museum; it’s a curated collection of artifacts and stories that paint a vivid picture of Franklin’s history and its connection to the broader Idaho landscape. It specializes in preserving and showcasing historical society elements, acting as a dedicated museum and a significant tourist attraction. Visitors will find themselves transported back in time, exploring the tools, machinery, and everyday objects that defined life in the area throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The building itself, the Hatch House, is a prime example of Victorian architecture, adding to the overall historical ambiance.

Location and Accessibility

Franklin, Idaho, is a small, charming town nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The Relic Hall is situated on East Main Street, a quiet thoroughfare lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings. This strategic location allows visitors to easily combine their visit to the museum with exploration of the town’s other architectural gems. Parking is readily available, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Key Features and Exhibits

• Relic Hall: The centerpiece of the museum, showcasing a remarkable assortment of farm equipment and machinery—a particular draw for enthusiasts.
• ZCMI Co-Op: Adjacent to the Relic Hall, this building represents a significant piece of Franklin’s commercial history.
• Hatch House: Known as one of the most impressive homes in Franklin, the Hatch House offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a prominent local family.
• Historical Displays: The museum features a variety of exhibits detailing the town’s founding, early industries, and notable residents.

The signage outside the building provides valuable context and information about the town’s history and the significance of the structures within. The layout encourages exploration, allowing visitors to wander at their own pace and discover fascinating details.

Visitor Information

Phone: 2086462290
Website: history.idaho.gov
Address: 113 E Main St, Franklin, ID 83237

The Franklin Relic Hall is currently undergoing renovations, but visitors are welcome to walk around and view the exterior of the Relic Hall, the historic old buildings, and the ZCMI Co-Op and Hatch House. The team is dedicated to reopening the Hall and continuing its mission of preserving and sharing Franklin’s history. It's anticipated that the Hall will reopen to the public soon, offering a more in-depth exploration of the exhibits and artifacts.

Community Impact and Significance

The Franklin Relic Hall plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of Franklin and surrounding communities. It serves as a focal point for local history enthusiasts, educators, and tourists alike. The dedication to preserving historical artifacts and sharing them with the public demonstrates a commitment to remembering and celebrating the past. The Hall’s presence contributes significantly to the town’s identity and enhances its appeal as a unique and historically rich destination. It’s a testament to the importance of local history in shaping our understanding of the present and future.

The Average opinion: 4.6/5 reflects the positive experiences visitors have shared, emphasizing the museum’s value and engaging exhibits. This high rating underscores the importance of supporting local historical initiatives and encourages further exploration of Franklin’s past. The 29 reviews on Google My Business provide valuable insights into the visitor experience, highlighting the museum’s welcoming atmosphere and informative displays. The enthusiasm for the anticipated reopening of the Relic Hall is palpable, showcasing the community's eagerness to once again immerse themselves in the town’s rich history.

👍 Reviews of Franklin Relic Hall

Rick J.

4/5

Head up this quiet street and see the historic old buildings. They are currently closed but you can walk around and take pictures of the Relic Hall, old ZCMI Co-Op, and the even more impressive Hatch House. There is signage out front near the street which will tell you a lot about the town and the buildings. I can't wait until the Relic Hall is open because I am a big fan of old farm equipment and machinery.

Cynthia F. A.

5/5

The guide working in the museum, was very helpful. She took us to the other buildings and told stories about the family's who lived there. My two grandchildren really enjoyed hearing the stories and seeing the displays. A wonderful little museum. Really worth the stop to see it.

James G.

5/5

Fantastic little museum that is not called one- helpful and knowledgeable staff. The collection actually started quite early about 1910, therefore many items in the collection have the name of the original owner attached. I found my great great grandmother's 1860's clock beautifully preserved! Worthwhile stop especially if you have ancestors who were in the area. They have family history of most names and will make copies for 10 cents a page. Like I said a fantastic stop!

Dr. A. S.

5/5

First of all, it's great to see how much the locals care for their history. It's a nice place and perfect for a break if you are, like we, on a road trip and want to have a picnic combined with some history of the pioneer times.

glenden B.

4/5

Good collection of pioneer artifacts. Limited seasonal hours. Some of the facts in the Bear River Massacre display need to be reviewed for historical veracity.

Paul P.

5/5

Great collection of pioneer artifacts. They also have a pavilion with tables, bring your lunch and have a picnic.

Lara B.

5/5

Very fun to stop and look around. Staff is very knowledgeable, helped answer some family history questions even.

Jerry B.

5/5

Called to serve a a service missionary, I have learned much there about the settlers who came there.