Idaho Falls is set to pay tribute to a forgotten pioneer with a new bronze statue, a move that has sparked both excitement and reflection within the community. Rebecca Brown Mitchell, a 48-year-old Baptist woman who arrived in Eagle Rock with nothing but her clothes and a few belongings, played a pivotal role in the city's early development. Her contributions include the construction of the city's first church, schoolhouse, and public library, as well as her active participation in the women's suffrage movement, which helped secure women's right to vote in Idaho, making it the fourth state to recognize this right. Mitchell's legacy extends to her role as the first female chaplain in the Idaho Legislature, a national record that resonates with people today. The statue, set to be installed in Heritage Park near Snake River Landing, is a symbol of her groundbreaking efforts and the community's desire to honor its history. The project, led by the Rebecca Mitchell Project committee, has raised approximately a fifth of the $150,000 needed, with the goal of completing the sculpture by November 2026, marking 130 years since women's suffrage was adopted in Idaho. This initiative aims to educate the community about its history and foster a sense of excitement and appreciation for Idaho Falls. The statue, designed by Irene Juliette Deely, features Mitchell holding a shovel and a banner, symbolizing her contributions as a 'groundbreaker' and her support for women's suffrage and the temperance movement. The project has received support from the Museum of Idaho, where Mitchell's dress, hymnal, and a representation of her classroom are on display, highlighting her significant impact on the state's history. The statue's creation is a testament to the power of grassroots fundraising and the community's commitment to preserving and celebrating its past, ensuring that Rebecca Brown Mitchell's memory and achievements are not forgotten.
