In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the City of Hailey proposes Liberty on Parade: Blaine County, Idaho’s American Story, a community-centered living history experience woven into Hailey’s annual Fourth of July Parade. In partnership with the Blaine County Historical Museum, Blaine County, and the Chamber of Commerce of the Wood River Valley, the project will visually tell the story of Idaho’s path to statehood and Blaine County’s role in the American experience. Historically themed parade floats will depict key eras from the creation of Idaho Territory in 1863 through statehood in 1890 and into the present day.

Proposed floats will highlight milestones including the mining boom and stagecoach era; railroads and early statehood; the sheep industry; the Civilian Conservation Corps and Forest Service; the founding of Sun Valley Resort; World War II and the Sun Valley Lodge’s role as a naval convalescent hospital; and the modern era shaped by public lands, recreation, and civic institutions. By presenting history during a beloved community event, the project will foster intergenerational learning and civic pride. Liberty on Parade honors Idaho’s statehood while celebrating the resilience, cooperation, and shared values that continue to define Blaine County.

As part of the America250 in Idaho Oral History Initiative, the Blaine County Historical Museum is offering a free opportunity for community members to record and preserve their personal stories. This program invites individuals and families to share the memories, experiences, and voices that help tell the story of Idaho and our Valley.

Participants will have their stories recorded through the TheirStory platform by a trained staff member. This platform allows interviews to be filmed, transcribed, indexed, and archived. Participants may choose to keep ownership of their recorded story or donate their interview to the Idaho State Archives, where it will be preserved for future generations.

To schedule an appointment at the museum to record your story, please complete the form.

Idaho is proud to present Moments That Made Us, a free, customizable, print-on-demand exhibition available to communities statewide. Developed through a multi-state collaboration, the exhibition includes 21 modular panels exploring the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and pivotal moments in American history.

The exhibition is fully adaptable—organizations may display all panels or select specific themes and incorporate local stories and objects. With printing and mounting as the only costs, this exhibition offers an accessible way for museums, libraries, schools, and community spaces to participate in the America250 celebration.

-walking through hailey tour

-stopping at landmarks, tell haileys history through america history perspective