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Idaho State Historical Society brings USS Idaho silver service to House chamber
Summary
The Idaho State Historical Society presented pieces from the USS Idaho silver service to the Idaho House of Representatives during its Jan. 20, 2025 session, describing the objects' provenance and inviting members to view them up close.
BOISE — The Idaho State Historical Society presented selections from the historic USS Idaho silver service to the Idaho House of Representatives during the Jan. 20, 2025 session, describing the provenance of the pieces and inviting lawmakers to view them.
An Idaho State Historical Society presenter told the chamber that the ISHS was established in 1881 by the territorial legislature and designated a state agency in 1907, and said the artifacts include items gifted to successive ships named USS Idaho, including an engraved fruit tray and a cake tray originally gifted in 1912. “The Idaho State Historical Society is your trusted guide in exploring how Idaho's history has shaped our people, communities, government, and landscape,” the presenter said.
The presenter said five ships have borne the name Idaho since 1864 and that elements of a decommissioned USS Idaho were repurposed for the Capitol’s copper eagle. The presenter said the silver service was transferred to the Idaho State Historical Society after the ship was decommissioned in 1946 and is now part of the agency’s collection.
House members were invited to approach the dais to view the artifacts. The presenter and ISHS staff remained on hand to answer questions. The chamber’s presiding officer thanked the historical society for the annual presentation and noted members often learn new details from the display.
The society’s delegation in the gallery included board chair Dr. Cheryl O’Brien and trustees Bill Butishi and Mary Ann Arnold; the agency’s executive director Janet Gallimore; and representatives from a supporting foundation identified in the transcript as Jessica Anderson and Roy Agharon. The presenter also acknowledged reproductions and historic photos provided by the foundation.
The presentation lasted several minutes and concluded before the House returned to formal business. No action or vote accompanied the presentation; it was an informational display and opportunity for members to examine artifacts.
