Intellectual Property (IP) Journal of the PTDLA Vol.3 (1) June 2003 Idaho Ghost Towns: Patents as a Key to the Past Karen F. Hertel Reference Librarian and PTDL Representative University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho
[email protected] Abstract Nearly one quarter of the patenting activity in historic Idaho took place in what are now considered ghost towns. As a group, the 70 patents used in this study provide a rich body of data on place names, genealogy, progress of technology, and activities in early Idaho towns. The mining industry as central to Idaho history and early patenting activity is discussed. Also covered are complexities inherent in analyzing historical patents and areas where further research is needed. Keywords: Idaho, Ghost Towns, Historical Patents, Mining, Inventors, History of Science, Independent Inventors, Early Idaho Towns, Historical Places, History of Technology Introduction Patenting activity commenced in Idaho in 1866, with the issuing of a patent for a steam generator to Robert Bailey of Idaho City, Territory of Idaho. During the next 34 years, 312 patents were issued in Idaho. Seventy, or roughly 22%, list as residence of inventor towns that have completely disappeared, or had a significant decline in population. This paper will examine the 70 patents in the study group with the aim of identifying possible patterns or groupings of invention that offer insights into the history and culture of Idaho towns that flourished in the late 19th century and later declined, becoming ghost towns. A second aim is to note some of the various complexities encountered when undertaking historical patent research.