Bsu Students To Compile History Of Idaho Hispanics

History students at Boise State University will launch an effort to compile what’s believed to be the first comprehensive written history of Hispanics in Idaho.

About 15-20 upper division students are enrolled in a special research class, “Hispanic Experience in Idaho.” They will use a $1,500 grant from the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs to explore and document the evolution of the Hispanic community in Idaho.

Hispanics have a long, rich history of contributions to Idaho’s cultural and economic development, according to commission Executive Director Daniel Ramirez. But to date, the Hispanic population has received little historic attention.

History professor Errol Jones will lead the students. He said some oral and photographic history exists, but the state lacks a central written history of Hispanics.