There are some parts of Idaho history that you just don’t learn about in school.There are a massive amount of fascinating stories and places just waiting to be uncovered. The trick is…you have to go out and find them. That’s one of the best parts about living in Idaho. You’re constantly uncovering towns you didn’t even know about, and therefore learning about a part of Idaho that you never would’ve thought about..
The small town of Murray has a long history. It might not look like much on the exterior, but you’ll soon find out that this place contains a charm unlike any town you’ve seen before. Take a look.
The town of Murray is truly a hidden gem. Surrounded by the Coeur d’Alene National Forest, it’s located approximately 25 miles north of Wallace.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
This quaint community looks straight out of the Wild West. The main street is lined with vintage structures, some of which have been standing for centuries. It doesn’t look like much has changed since this place was a prominent mining town.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Located in north Idaho’s Silver Valley, Murray was one of the numerous towns to see a population spike during the Gold Rush in the 1880s. It’s hard to imagine now but Murray was home to around 5,000 people during its heyday.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Today, just a few businesses remain open. However, they provide a unique insight into what life was like in this Old West town during the 19th century.
toy4cannon/TripAdvisor
The Sprag Pole is part museum and part restaurant. You can take your time looking over the items while you wait for your meal to cook. You’ll be in awe at how many items they’ve crammed into the rooms, all with unique historical significance.
Orphie27/TripAdvisor The museum is home to old typewriters, cigarette collections, old newspapers, and more. It’s almost like a time capsule of Murray in the 19th century.
The Bedroom Gold Mine Bar resembles your usual rough n’ tumble restaurant and bar, but it’s worth a visit for the weird story behind it alone.
Bedroom Goldmine Bar/Facebook The story goes that a man in the 1950s began digging a hole in his bedroom hoping to uncover buried gold. He kept digging for 36 feet until he hit bedrock. At this point, the man found an 11-ounce gold nugget at the bottom of the hole. Today, the Bedroom Mine looks like it’s about to topple over. But that doesn’t stop the locals from gathering in this unique bar. Don’t forget to take a peak at the original gold mine shaft in what used to be the bedroom.
You can try your hand at panning gold today, if you’d like. The Old Gold Shop in town contains a panning area and the store sells metal detectors. Who knows, you might strike it rich!
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
If you find yourself wanting to stay overnight, the 1884 Murray House is your only option. However, you won’t be dissatisfied with this quaint bed and breakfast. This historic structure used to serve as the town bank. Staying here is like experiencing living, breathing history.
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Have you ever visited Murray? What’s your favorite historic town? Be sure to check out these 8 Historic Towns In Idaho That Look Straight Out Of The Wild West for more fascinating places to discover!
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
toy4cannon/TripAdvisor
Orphie27/TripAdvisor
The museum is home to old typewriters, cigarette collections, old newspapers, and more. It’s almost like a time capsule of Murray in the 19th century.
Bedroom Goldmine Bar/Facebook
The story goes that a man in the 1950s began digging a hole in his bedroom hoping to uncover buried gold. He kept digging for 36 feet until he hit bedrock. At this point, the man found an 11-ounce gold nugget at the bottom of the hole. Today, the Bedroom Mine looks like it’s about to topple over. But that doesn’t stop the locals from gathering in this unique bar. Don’t forget to take a peak at the original gold mine shaft in what used to be the bedroom.
Sandy H/TripAdvisor
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