Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite is a historic site located in Hansen, Idaho that dates back to 1865. The site includes a collection of structures and artifacts that tell the story of this early transportation center, which served the Oregon Trail, Overland mail stage route, and the Kelton Freight Road. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is owned by the Idaho State Historical Society and managed cooperatively with the Friends of Stricker, Inc.
Location
The Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite is located at 3175 Stricker Cabin Road, Hansen, Idaho 83334. The site is open to visitors year-round and admission is free, but donations are welcomed.
History
- The Rock Creek Station was the largest stage station between Fort Hall and Fort Boise.
- In 1864, Ben Holladay selected the site for a home station on his Overland Stage Line.
- In 1865, James Bascom built the Rock Creek Store.
- In 1876, Herman Stricker purchased the store and remained the proprietor until it closed in 1897.
- At one time, the Rock Creek Station served as a saloon, dance hall, post office, polling place, and supply post for emigrants traveling west.
What to see
- The Rock Creek Store building: Built in 1865, this is the first trading post on the Oregon Trail west of Fort Hall. The log building served as a saloon, dance hall, post office, polling place, and supply post for emigrants traveling west.
- Stricker home: This is the 1901 Stricker home, which visitors can see.
- Reconstructed summer house
- Interpretive center: This center provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite.
Special events
- Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite Ribbon Cutting: The Idaho State Historical Society and Friends of Stricker will be celebrating the unveiling of the latest historic preservation project, engaging historical interpretation, and educational experience pavilion at Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite in Hansen on June 5th. Through generous support by the Janice Seagraves Family Foundation, Maurice Bowers Charitable Trust, and the Grace Smith Keveren and Kenneth A. Keveren Foundation, the site now features stunning outside interpretation for self-guided tours and a pavilion to accommodate educational tours for school children and learners of all ages.
- Hands-on learning: The site features hands-on learning through special events and interpretive exhibits, which provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite.
Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite is an important historical site that offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the early history of transportation in the American West. The site offers visitors a chance to see original and reconstructed buildings, an interpretive center, and special events that provide a more in-depth understanding of the area’s history. The Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite is open year-round, admission is free and donations are welcomed. Visitors can join the Idaho State Historical Society and Friends of Stricker in celebrating the unveiling of the latest historic preservation project, engaging historical interpretation, and educational experience pavilion at Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite in Hansen on June 5th.
