The Cyrus Jacobs House, constructed in 1864, holds the distinction as the oldest house in Boise that has been in continuous use as a residence. This historic structure is a significant landmark within the city's rich past.
Historical Significance of the Cyrus Jacobs House
Built just two years after Boise City was established in 1862, the Cyrus Jacobs House offers a direct link to the early days of Idaho's capital. Its enduring presence and continuous occupancy as a residence highlight its unique place in the city's architectural and social history.
Key facts about the Cyrus Jacobs House:
- Construction Year: 1864
- Original Owner: Cyrus Jacobs, a prominent early Boise merchant and politician.
- Distinction: Recognized as the oldest house in continuous use as a residence in Boise.
- Location: Situated within the historic core of the city, specifically in the Old Boise Historic District.
The Old Boise Historic District
The Cyrus Jacobs House is a cornerstone of the Old Boise Historic District, an area known for preserving many of the city's earliest buildings. While the Perrault Building, dating from 1879, is noted as the oldest commercial structure in continuous use in the city, the Cyrus Jacobs House represents the residential heritage of the same era.
The district serves as a testament to Boise's growth from a frontier town to a thriving capital, with structures like the Cyrus Jacobs House providing tangible connections to its origins.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Cyrus Jacobs House |
| Built | 1864 |
| Significance | Oldest house in Boise in continuous use as a residence |
| Location | Old Boise Historic District |
| Status | Privately owned and continuously occupied |
The preservation of such historic homes is crucial for understanding the foundational period of Boise and appreciating the architectural styles and living conditions of its early pioneers.
