The History of Island Park

Enjoying the History of Island Park

Last week I stopped by one of the local stores and purchased a copy of “History of Island Park by Dean H. Green”. Having seen the book displayed in several stores, I was intrigued.

Island Park is a window to various times in the earth’s history. Hiking amidst the obsidian boulders of Fish Creek, one can imagine the time before man arrived. Hunting for elk and dodging grizzlies in the forest is reminiscent of the mountain man era and visiting the old log cabins still in use reminds us of those who first developed the area.  Listening to locals tell stories about Doc Mack, the deep snow years and the various landmarks lost to fires over the years, one observes the reverence that many have for this area.

There are stories in my family about a connection to Island Park and Pond’s Lodge.  I wanted to explore them as well so I made my purchase and began reading.  The author opens with the area’s volcanic activity and documents early Indian activity, mountain men and the US Calvary during the Nez Perce War. I enjoyed reading about the first white settlers in the area, Gilman Sawtell, Dick Rock (who was killed by his pet buffalo) and George Rea.

My impatience got the better of me and I jumped forward to the chapter on Pond’s Lodge. I had met my great uncle and aunt in Idaho Falls when I was in grade school but didn't remember much. I called my mother in Arizona and she reminded me that their names were Gus and Rella Pond.

Charles Pond and his wife, Mina moved here to work for the Targhee Tie Company in 1924 (near the Scout Camp) and in 1925 purchased the lease and buildings which they renamed Pond’s Lodge. One of his children was Angus (Gus) Pond, my great uncle. And there on page 157 was a photo of great Uncle Gus and Aunt Rella.  I felt a sense of pride but also of missed opportunity. When I was young, I had no information about their history. I wish they had shared with me stories of the early days of Island Park.

In my heart, I feel that I owe it to them to learn as much about the area as I can and pass that information down to my children and grandchildren. I also was forced to consider that I have failed to disclose many of my life experiences. I am determined to rectify that omission.

For those of you who haven’t picked up a copy of Mr. Green’s book, I would recommend it. It is well worth the money and the time to read.