History

The settlement of Rexburg began in 1879 when John Poole, an employee of the Utah Northern Railroad, reported fertile soil in the area. In March 1883, pioneers from Salt Lake sought to further cultivate and develop the Upper Snake River Valley. The community was named "Rexburg" after their leader, Thomas E. Ricks (Ricks being German for Rex or King). It grew quickly, attracting individuals eager to bring industry and progress to the region. By Idaho's statehood in 1890 (just 7 years later), Rexburg was the second-largest city in the state. In 1913, Madison County was formed with Rexburg as the leading city at the helm.

City founders prioritized education and commerce as a means to build a strong, family-centric community from the start. They established the Bannock Stake Academy in 1888. It was renamed Ricks College in 1915 and, ultimately became Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-I) in 2001, as it's still known today. BYU-I is a private university operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university continues to see rapid growth, which draws students worldwide and enriches Rexburg’s cultural diversity.

The city also boasts strong foundational schools in elementary through high school education. Recent and continuing expansions to the Madison School District facilities have increased capacity and allowed for the assurance of a family-friendly community.

On June 5th, 1976, waters from the Teton Dam Flood roared through the upper Snake River Valley. Those 80 billion gallons surged from just north of Rexburg all the way south to the American Falls Dam, where they were finally stopped 3 days later. It's estimated that 90% of residents in the affected areas lost 90% of their possessions. 11 lives were lost in the disaster. In the wake of devastation, the community rallied together to rebuild, redefining the importance of the community that banded together to overcome extreme disaster. "This flood was a time of tragedy that profoundly unified Rexburg’s people. The immediate response to the call for humanitarian aid, as well as the compassion and resilience shown in a time of great distress, demonstrates a morale that is unmatched by other places. It is the people of Rexburg who make it “America’s family community.” (from: Defining Rexburg: The History and the People) Mere months after the event, little evidence of the flood remained.

Locals benefit from Rexburg's close proximity to Yellowstone and Teton National Parks, which offer year-round outdoor recreation. Other nearby destinations, like the St. Anthony Sand Dunes and Targhee National Forest, attract adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. These attractions and more make Rexburg a gateway city for tourism sought by visitors from around the world.

With easy access to major highways, a prioritization of education, and a residency that defines the meaning of community, Rexburg boasts an active and educated workforce that is ready to meet the demands of our global economy.

Historic photo of downtown Rexburg, noted as taken in 1886. 4 wood frame buildings on a dirt road with people in pioneer dress out front.

The first picture ever reportedly taken of downtown Rexburg, in the summer if 1886.

Historical Photo of the Rexburg Commercial Hotel with a stage wagon and people out front on the porch and 2nd floor balcony

The Commercial Hotel occupied the second floor of this building, above the local general store on Main Street.

historic photo of a blacksmith shop and horses tethered to a post with men facing camera in late 19th c. period clothes.

A blacksmith shop, owned by German immigrant Jacob Brenner, who built the shop in 1887. This building once stood where the Madison County Courthouse stands now.

Historic photo of downtown Rexburg with horse drawn carriage front and center on the street with 3 other horses and riders surrounding it; unmarked buildings in the background.

The Whoopee Days continues to bring the cowboys. This photo was taken in 1918 on Main Street and College Ave. in front of a bank and saloon.

Historic photo of downtown Rexburg taken in the winter with snow covering the ground. A bank is visible along with other connected buildings. Caption begins "East Main Street and the corner of S 1st E"

1920s cars, side-parked on Main street in front of the row of shops and storefronts.

In 1922, at the corner of South 1st E and Main. Flamm & Co., First National Bank, Waldram's Music, and the first Madison County Courthouse are visible along with a furniture store, Mallory's meat market, and a Café.

Historic photo of multiple adults gathered in and in front of a trolley on Main Street in Rexburg

Multiple people gathered in and in front of a trolley on Main Street in Rexburg. The trolley reads "Rexburg Transit"

Historic photo of a wide green divider patch in the middle of Main street looking West with buildings and trees on the distant left and right and people walking on the street. A caption on the photo talks about buildings down the street including 3 hotels, a blacksmith, the courthouse, and homes.

East Main Street looking West toward downtown around 1925.

City of Rexburg - AO Demo

History