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Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Just a Little Bear Lake History by C.T. Buttars

 Did You Know…

…The first two names of Laketown were:  “Last Chance” and “Ethica”.  Later, in 1864, it became known as Laketown. (Ref: Elizabeth P. Astle & Mary P. Stucki article, 1963)

…In 1880, it took 4-1/2 days to get from Centerville, Utah to St Charles, Idaho “driving” a team of horses pulling a large wagon.  In 2025, it takes 2 hours and 17 minutes “driving” a truck pulling a travel trailer.

…Some of the Bear Lake area was settled under the Homestead Act of 1862, originally established by President Abraham Lincoln.  Homestead certificates were granted by the Act, “To secure Homesteads to Actual Settlers on the Public Domain”.  Up to 160 acres could be granted under this act, providing certain requirements were met.  The certificate below for 80 acres granted to Alexander Sims Junior was signed by President William McKinley on 18 June 1901.



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