Henry, Idaho

Linda and I spent an afternoon with our neighbors, Connie and Larry Hymas, exploring Henry, Idaho. The old town dates from 1884, and in its day had a big influence on western history.  There is still a cluster of 6 or 7 old buildings left, including the old Henry Store.

The building was built in 1908 after an older store burned down, but it has been closed for a few years now.  Henry isn't a complete ghost yet because there are a few modern houses and trailers, and an RV park serving nearby Blackfoot Reservoir.

This beautiful old granary is a remnant of the agricultural past here.  Four concrete pads were probably the foundations of other granaries that have disappeared.

An old mower, half hidden in the grass, is another clue to the town's agricultural history.



Henry was the location for one of the first great rodeos of the west.  It was called the "Henry Stampede and Stockman's Reunion".  Horses were trailed all the way from Jackson Hole, Wyoming to buck in this famous event.



Now, this old house sits on a hill above the old town.  Oddly enough, derelict hookups from an abandoned RV park are scattered around the lonely building.



We didn't meet anyone at all here, but an old dog showed up to lead us through the quiet town.  She seemed glad to have company for a change.

Easter Cantata

Linda and I had a wonderful experience the evening of Saturday, April 7.  We both sang in an Easter Catata titled "We Stand All Amazed", by Sally DeFord.  The event was sponsored by the LDS Church in Montpelier, Idaho and was held in the Montpelier Tabernacle, under the direction of Neil Harris, and with piano accompaniment by his wife Shirley.  Members of all churches in the area were invited to participate, and I represented the Bear Lake Community Presbyterian Church.  98 people performed, which is huge participation for our little valley.  We had practiced this challenging, beautiful music since January, and Neil and Shirley did an amazing job perfecting the presentation.  The music told the story of the last week in the life of Jesus Christ and the resurrection, and it was so emotionally charged that it was difficult to concentrate on singing.  We often saw people in tears in the audience.

PHOTO BY BRUCE GRAYUM



The presentation included several soloists, two flutes, three violins, and a pipe organ in addition to the piano, narrator, and conductor.  I think this powerful music will be remembered here for a long time, and the event should promote unity with the various religions in the Bear Lake Valley.  We were proud to be a part of this, and it will be one of the highlights of the year for us.

Fall Creek Falls

The snow and ice has disappeared early this year, but the countryside hasn't started to green up yet along the Snake River near Swan Valley, Idaho.

Just a couple of miles off the main road, Fall Creek drops off a cliff into the Snake River.  Fishermen have the best view as they drift down the Snake in their fishing boats.

Anywhere else, these falls would be a tourist attraction with trails, guard rails, parking lots, and souvenirs.  They are totally undeveloped.  There are no signs to help you find the place, and you need to be careful around the unprotected cliff edge.

The view from the cliff is largely obscured by brush and trees, so it takes some effort around the top of the cliff to get a decent photo.  Morning light would probably be best to photograph spectacular Fall Creek Falls.