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A Trailblazer’s Tale:

Visiting Polly Bemis Ranch

The historic Polly Bemis Ranch, located on the Main Salmon River, is named after an incredible woman. She lived in Idaho from the day she arrived in 1872 to her death in 1933. In 1967—when Polly’s log cabin was deemed a National Historic Site—Idaho Governor Cecil Andrus called her “the foremost pioneer on the rugged Salmon River.” How did this indomitable woman carve a life in this remote area surrounded by the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness? Listen as a local jet boat guide shares an overview of her fascinating 80-year history. Uncover the history of this area firsthand when you book your own Salmon River jet boat tour.

A Snapshot of the Past

Browse historical photos courtesy of the Idaho State Archives for a look at Polly’s life in Idaho.

A black-and-white photo of Polly Bemis and a black dog standing outside.
P1975-228-43e. Polly Bemis with Her Dog Teddy. Sister M. Alfreda Elsensohn Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly Bemis standing with Nellie Shupp with alpine scenery behind them.
P1975-228-43f. Polly Bemis with Nellie Shupp. Sister M. Alfreda Elsensohn Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly Bemis sitting with a group of seven people on an outing with Captain Guleke.
P1975-228-43i. Polly Bemis with Captain Guleke in an Outing, 1920. Sister M. Alfreda Elsensohn Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly and Charlie Bemis standing in front of their cabin with a horse and dogs.
P1962-44-5. Mrs. Bemis with Horse and Dog in Front of Cabin. Sister Alfreda Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly Bemis standing looking at the camera holding a large walking stick.
P1962-44-6. Polly Bemis. Sister Alfreda Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly and Charlie Bemis setting out in a boat on the Salmon River with a third man paddling.
P1979-98-110. Polly Bemis with Charlie Bemis – Salmon River Headed to Crooked Creek. J. Cort Conley Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly Bemis standing in front of the cabin.
P1962-44-1. Polly Bemis in Front of Cabin. Sister Alfreda Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly and Charlie Bemis standing in front of their cabin.
P1962-44-4. Mr. and Mrs. Bemis in Front of Cabin. Sister Alfreda Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
A black-and-white photo of Polly Bemis in her wedding dress, standing next to a table.
P1975-228-43h. Polly Bemis in Her Wedding Dress. Sister M. Alfreda Elsensohn Photography Collection. Idaho State Archives.
Two visitors enjoying drum music with two members of the Nez Perce tribe in Nez Perce National Historical Park.

Connect With Idaho’s Culture

Discover the people, places and stories that create Idaho’s unique history and culture. Whether strolling through museum exhibits or hiking to significant sites, you can find opportunities to engage with the diverse cultures that shape Idaho across the state.

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