| Across the Salmon River from Cottonwood lies
Joseph plains, one of the riches sections of Idaho County, deriving its name
from the famous Indian chieftain, Joseph.
Joseph plains 50 or 60 years ago was one of the
"outposts" of civilization and it still remains in comparative
isolation
Along in the early 90's or there-about, while the mining
excitement still prevailed in central Idaho and people continued to flock in
from all parts of the country. Mr. and Mrs.. D.H. Boles arrived in
Lewiston from the middle west and took up their abode at the home of Mr. and
Mrs. Leslie Thompson. Mr.. Boles had heard of the riches of Idaho and he
determined to prospect and try his luck, and he chose Joseph plains for his
venture.
Boles and his family took up their home in the remote
section of Idaho county and engaged in mining enterprises. There was one inconvenience.
There was no post office nearby, so Boles applied for one. His request was
granted and for want of a better name he called it Boles.
Livestock empire
The section is not noted for mining, although
much work was done in that vicinity years ago, but it holds an enviable position
as a stock raising region, and Boles is the center of activity. The post office
there serves patrons from miles around. Aside from stock, Joseph plains is
a fine farming region. The soil is rich and the climate mild.
Boles is 20 miles southwest of
Grangeville. The precinct had a population of 116 when the 1930 census was
taken. |