Since 1989, the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has celebrated Idaho Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month each May, bringing attention to the state’s rich cultural and historic heritage. This year, SHPO’s “Bridging Time” event was a unique addition to the tradition because for the first time, the office opened the poster design to the public, bringing together a vibrant mix of artists, organizations, and community members. This year’s event not only highlighted the importance of preservation but also created a space for dialogue between the past, present, and future of Idaho’s heritage.
Bridging Time: A Celebration of Arts and Preservation was hosted at the newly renovated historic Assay Office in Boise. This energetic celebration featured over 100 works of art submitted by Idaho artists, each a unique depiction of the iconic Rainbow Bridge, which spans the Payette River. SHPO hosted the Bridging Time event to celebrate the Rainbow Bridge’s cultural significance as the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) implements plans to replace the existing structure, originally built in 1933. Although the new bridge will be constructed adjacent to the current one, ITD intends to preserve the original bridge as a scenic overlook, allowing the public to continue to enjoy its historic legacy. This reflects the ongoing dedication of SHPO and others in the preservation community to protect and celebrate Idaho's rich history.
Event attendees had the opportunity to tour the art, engage with local artists and preservation organizations, and enjoy food from local vendors. The event culminated in the unveiling of the winning artwork, which was selected to grace the 2025 Idaho Archaeology and Historic Preservation Month poster.
Dan Everhart, one of the event’s organizers, is an architectural historian and serves as the Outreach Historian for the SHPO. A native Idahoan, Everhart has dedicated his career to preserving and promoting the state's rich architectural heritage. In his role, he focuses on community engagement, educational outreach, and the documentation of Idaho's diverse historical narratives. His efforts include leading public tours and spearheading projects to digitize and catalog historical photographs, thereby making Idaho's past more accessible to researchers and the public alike.
“This year’s event went great!” Everhart shares with excitement. “Beautiful weather and a strong turnout with approximately 500 people showing their art, talking about the great work they do as nonprofits and government agencies, or touring the building and grounds.”
The success of the Bridging Time event highlights the growing collaboration between Idaho’s artistic and preservation communities. By blending art and history, this year’s celebration not only showcased the creative spirit of Idahoans but also underscored the importance of preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage for future generations. As SHPO continues to honor Idaho’s history, events like Bridging Time offer a unique opportunity to engage the public and inspire continued preservation efforts across the state.
To see more of the submitted artwork and learn how to get involved in next year’s event, follow SHPO on social media or visit history.idaho.gov/iahpm.
Preserving Idaho’s Past, Inspiring Its Future
Founded in 1881, the Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS) connects over 110,000 people annually to the state’s rich heritage. Through the Idaho State Museum, Archives, Historic Preservation Office, and Old Idaho Penitentiary, ISHS preserves artifacts, documents, and sites that tell Idaho’s story. From school programs to exhibitions and preservation efforts, ISHS is a vital steward of the past—and a guide to understanding how history shapes our communities today.