HISTORY:
The history of Cottonwood, Idaho is rooted in early settlement, agriculture, and strong community traditions. The area was originally inhabited by the Nez Perce people, who used the Camas Prairie for seasonal gathering, particularly harvesting camas bulbs, an important food source. Permanent settlement began in the late 1800s, when European immigrants-many of them of German Catholic heritage-were drawn to the region's fertile prairie soils. Farming quickly became the foundation of the local economy, with wheat and livestock production shaping both the landscape and daily life. The town developed as a small agricultural center, supporting nearby farms and ranches. Religion and education played a central role in the community's growth. Institutions like St. Gertrude's Monastery and Cottonwood Catholic Schools became important cultural and social anchors, reflecting the area's strong Catholic roots.
