Mayor Cyrus Jacobs

Photo of Cyrus Jacobs
Photo courtesy of The Idaho State Historical Society

Born December 22, 1831, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Died June 28, 1900, Boise, Idaho

Cyrus Jacobs moved to Oregon with his parents in 1852. In 1858, he moved to Walla Walla, Washington, where he established a successful mercantile store. After the 1862 discovery of gold in Boise Basin, Jacobs secured a pack train containing merchandise, and traveled with the earliest miners to what is now Boise. He opened a store in a tent and continued to import merchandise, using freight teams and pack trains to supply the needs of miners.

Jacobs worked with others to plat the City of Boise in 1863. He built the first flour mill in the valley, established a packing plant, brewery and soap factory. He built the first brick home in the city and one of the earliest brick stores.

Jacobs was elected to a two-year term as Mayor of Boise in 1880 and later served on the Boise City Council.

While still a resident of Oregon in 1856, he married Mary Ellen Palmer, daughter of Oregon pioneer, General Joel Palmer. Six children were born to this union.

Message Sent Successfully!

Message Failed To Send.

Send a Message to Parks and Rec

For other after hours park related emergencies (i.e. irrigation issues, restrooms), please call (208) 489-6640.