Idaho Author Cort Conley Offers Fundraiser for
Lemhi County Historical Society and Salmon River Whitewater Park Association
Renowned Idaho author, Cort Conley, in a generous offer to assist two organizations in Lemhi County, will present “Historic Idaho River Films,” on Friday and Saturday evenings, October 25th and 26th, at the Sacajawea Interpretive Center. His interest in Idaho history and his love of the Salmon River prompted his suggestion to the Lemhi County Historical Society several years ago that he bring his considerable film collection and other Salmon River memorabilia to conduct a fundraiser for that organization. Although a minor accident prevented this, Conley again made the offer last spring and suggested a two-night event to help both the Lemhi County Historical Society and the Salmon River Whitewater Park Association. The central role of the Salmon River in the historical, cultural, and economic development of both the City of Salmon and Lemhi County made the combination a natural fit.
Beginning at 6:50 sharp, both evenings, Conley will introduce that night’s film and slide collection, including the important expeditions of the Amos Burg trek from the Snake River to the ocean, the 1935 National Geographic trip down the Main Salmon, and the 1938 Frazier/Swain journey down the Middle and Main in wooden boats. In all, ten river expeditions will be highlighted over the course of the two evenings. In addition to the films, Conley’s collection of river artifacts, photos, books, and historic film posters will be on exhibit. A silent auction will run both nights (so you will naturally want to attend both evenings for the bargain price of $20.00) and refreshments will be served. Tickets will be available at the door, or you can call 208.756.7885. All proceeds will benefit the Lemhi County Historical Society and the Salmon River Whitewater Park Association.
Conley’s education and experience range from receiving a Jurisprudence Doctorate from the University of California and working as a writer, editor, and publisher, to running rivers throughout the American West as a guide. With over forty years’ residence in Idaho and a series of publications, among them, The Middle Fork and The River of No Return (both co-authored by his friend Johnny Carrey), Idaho for the Curious, and Idaho Loners, Conley will reinforce the very rich history of the Salmon River in the development of Lemhi County.
Don’t miss this once-in-lifetime opportunity to enjoy an historic tour of the Salmon River. The slides and film footage are no longer in public circulation.