Rathdrum's past has come alive with Westwood Brewing Co.

Renovation of the former Westwood Saloon on Main Street, built in 1886 and believed to be the first brick building in Kootenai County, has uncovered the former county seat's past.

Danielle Howell, one of the owners of the recently opened Westwood Brewing, said she didn't consider herself a history buff until taking off board by board of siding changed her tune.

The original storefront of the bank and hardware store was right behind that siding.

"The original windows and woodwork are all there, so we've exposed that," Howell said. "It's been really fascinating"/Brian Walker, Coeur d'Alene Press. More here.