Wallace

Wallace, Idaho, is a small city with a colossal story, cradled in the rugged Bitterroot Mountains of the Idaho Panhandle. Known as the 'Silver Capital of the World,' this historic mining town has produced over a billion ounces of silver since its founding in 1884. Its entire downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its remarkably preserved late 19th and early 20th-century architecture.

Beyond its significant mining heritage, Wallace is a town of unexpected declarations and enduring spirit. It famously proclaimed itself the 'Center of the Universe' in 2004, a whimsical title marked by a manhole cover in the heart of town. Visitors can explore its profound past through a network of museums, underground mine tours, and historic walking routes, or venture into the surrounding wilderness for world-class outdoor recreation. Wallace offers a unique blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, inviting travelers to step back in time while enjoying the present of Idaho's Silver Valley.

## The Silver Rush and Early Years Wallace's story began in 1884 when Colonel William R. Wallace purchased 80 acres of land, drawn by the immense silver, gold, and other metal deposits in the surrounding mountains. The town quickly boomed with the discovery of rich silver lodes, becoming a regional center for the burgeoning mining industry. By 1887, downtown businesses were established, and the railroad arrived, further fueling its prosperity.

## Fires, Floods, and Labor Strife Wallace faced numerous challenges in its early decades. In 1890, a fire destroyed much of the downtown's wooden buildings, leading to their reconstruction with brick, a decision that proved crucial for future resilience. The town also endured significant labor disputes, including violent conflicts between mine owners and unionized workers in 1892 and 1899. The Great Fire of 1910, the largest forest fire in U.S. history, swept through the area, consuming a third of Wallace's downtown. Despite these setbacks, the seemingly inexhaustible veins of silver allowed Wallace to rebuild each time.

## A Century of Silver and Shifting Fortunes Wallace continued its reign as the 'Silver Capital of the World' for over a century, with the Coeur d'Alene Mining District producing an unparalleled amount of silver. The town's population peaked at nearly 4,000 in the 1940s. However, with declining silver prices in the 1980s, the region experienced economic hardship. In a pivotal moment for preservation, the entire city of Wallace was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a strategic move that prevented Interstate 90 from demolishing its historic core. Today, while silver mining remains a part of the economy, Wallace has successfully diversified, embracing tourism and outdoor recreation while proudly preserving its colorful and storied past.

Begin your exploration of Wallace with a walk through its historic downtown, where every building is on the National Register of Historic Places. Don't miss the manhole cover at Bank and Sixth Street, marking the self-proclaimed 'Center of the Universe.' For a deep dive into the town's mining legacy, take the Sierra Silver Mine Tour, guided by retired miners who offer firsthand accounts of life underground. The Wallace District Mining Museum provides further insight into the region's mineral history.

Step into a unique piece of social history at the Oasis Bordello Museum, preserved exactly as it was left when it closed in 1988. The Northern Pacific Railroad Depot Museum, a beautifully restored 1901 chateau-style building, tells the story of the railways that shaped the Silver Valley. For outdoor enthusiasts, Wallace is a gateway to extensive trail systems, including sections of the Route of the Hiawatha and the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, perfect for biking and hiking.

Consider a drive up Burke Canyon to see the remnants of historic mining towns and the dramatic ruins of the Frisco Mill. The Mining Heritage Exhibition, an outdoor museum, offers interactive displays of mining equipment. For a broader visual history, the Historic Wallace Photo Museum showcases an extensive collection of images from the region.

The best time to visit Wallace is during the summer months, from June through September. During this period, you can expect warm days, cooler nights, and lower precipitation, making it ideal for outdoor activities like biking and hiking. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant experiences, with cooler temperatures, changing foliage, and fewer crowds. Winters bring snowy conditions, transforming the surrounding mountains into a landscape suitable for snow-based recreation.

Wallace is a small, walkable city, so once you've arrived, you can easily explore downtown on foot. Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the closest major airport, about a 1.5-hour drive west. When planning outdoor activities, especially mine tours, note that closed-toed shoes and long pants are often required. If you're tackling the Route of the Hiawatha bike trail, consider renting a bike locally, as they often provide mounted lights essential for the tunnels. The Wallace Visitor Center, located off I-90 Exit 61, is an excellent resource for maps, guides, and local information, offering free coffee and restrooms. Parking downtown is parallel between November 15th and March 15th to facilitate snow removal.