Coeur d’Alene invited to be part of history

What stories should future generations remember about Coeur d’Alene? This summer, our community will begin answering that question together.

On Friday, July 3, the community will gather on the historic Kootenai County Courthouse lawn for an America250 Community Celebration honoring America’s 250th birthday, the courthouse’s 100th anniversary, and the people, stories and history that have helped shape Coeur d’Alene over the last century.

One of the most anticipated moments of the celebration will be the unveiling of the original 1926 time capsule, placed during the courthouse’s dedication 100 years ago. What did Coeur d’Alene residents choose to preserve for the future in 1926? What stories, artifacts and memories have been waiting a century for people to rediscover?

Soon, our community will find out together!

But this celebration is not only about looking back. It is also about reflecting on the present and considering what today’s Coeur d’Alene should be remembered for 100 years from now. As part of the event, organizers will also commemorate the creation of a new 2026 time capsule connected to the America250 celebration and courthouse centennial.

In the coming weeks, watch for additional opportunities for the community to participate in the celebration through contests, student involvement, family activities, historical features and special community initiatives connected to the project.

The July 3 A250 event will feature patriotic music, speakers, historical storytelling, children’s activities, an ice cream social and a keynote address from Idaho Supreme Court Justice Cynthia Meyer, all set against one of Coeur d’Alene’s most iconic historic landmarks.

This kickoff announcement is only the beginning of a larger community storytelling campaign leading into the event. Upcoming articles will explore what life in Coeur d’Alene looked like in 1926, the history behind the courthouse and its original time capsule, community partners helping to bring the event to life and the stories that continue to shape Coeur d’Alene today.

Some celebrations ask people to attend. This one asks the community to help reflect on what future generations will remember.

Mark your calendars:

Friday, July 3, Kootenai County Courthouse Lawn Program begins at 1:30 p.m. Free and open to the public

• • •

Danielle Rhodes is on the planning committee for this celebration.