Idaho, the 43rd American state, has been called the Gem State for its abundance of natural minerals. This is not only because of the precious stones uncovered from its mines, but also because of other gems: its culture, natural wonders and industry. Admitted into the Union on July 3 of 1890, Idaho is known as the 14th largest state in terms of land mass.
Idaho storage facilities understand that your possessions are gems too, which is why they provide insurance and
storage security to make sure they are well cared for.
Origin of State's Name: The word "Idaho" was supposedly an Indian word meaning "Gem of the Mountains". However, it turns out to be a word made up by a miner, George M. Willing.
Capital City: Boise, located in the Ada County, is Idaho's capital and most populated city with 214,490 residents based on 2009 statistics. Idaho is bordered to the north by British Columbia in Canada, to the east by
Montana and
Wyoming, to the west by
Oregon and
Washington and to the south by
Utah and
Nevada.
Population: As of the 2009 census, Idaho is populated with about 1,545,801 people.
Driving: Information on driver's licenses, testing centers, requirements, and applications can all be found in the
Idaho Transportation Department webpage linked below.
Agriculture and Industry: Mining, production of computer and electronic equipment, processed food, lumber and chemicals are some of Idaho's the major industries. Other major industries include wood and lumber, food processing and paper products. Idaho is the number one producer of potatoes in all of America. Agriculture in Idaho includes crops such as wheat, peas, beans and barley, cattle and dairy products.
State Bird: The mountain bluebird was named the state bird of Idaho on February 28, 1931.
State Tree: The western white pine, also known as the white pine, mountain white pine, is Idaho's official state tree and was adopted by the Idaho legislature in 1935.
State Flower: The Syringia, also known as the Lewis Mock Orange, is Idaho's state flower. It was incorporated into the state seal by the designer Emma Sarah Etine Edwards (now Emma Edwards Green) back in 1890. Syringia was officially adopted to represent the state in 1931.
State Song: "Here We Have Idaho" (also known as "Our Idaho") is Idaho's state song. The verses were written by Albert J. Tompkins and the chorus by McKinley Helm; Salle Hume Douglas composed the music for the song.