Welcome!

Benewah County IDGenWeb is a free genealogical site about the history of the county. We hope you find helpful clues for your research of Benewah county ancestors.

What's New at Benewah County IDGenWeb since your last visit
Search Benewah County IDGenWeb for a specific name

Are you familiar with the area? Do you have a family tree connection to the area? Please consider contributing your pieces of Benewah County family history. Corrections, updates, and additions to this site are always welcome. Our combined efforts can make this a great site for all who visit!

County Coordinator: YOU? Benewah County IDGenWeb is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION.
If you are interested in helping, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Temporary County Coordinator: Norma Hass normahass01@gmail.com

State Coordinator: Kerry Hairston kerry.hairston@gmail.com

COUNTY FORMATION

Settlement of the area began after the completion of the Mullan Road in 1860, but most settlers came after the discovery of gold near St. Maries in 1880. Benewah County was formed from the southern portion of Kootenai County on January 23, 1915. Benewah County is named for a Coeur d'Alene Indian chief.

The St. Joe River flows through the north end of the county and Lake Chatcolet is the central feature of Heyburn Park. The St. Joe National Forest is the southeasterly portion of the county. Most of the Coeur d'Alene Indian Reservation lies within the westerly portion of the county.

The county seat is at St. Maries.