Collections & Research
Preserving and presenting your stories
MOI collects, preserves, and curates hundreds of thousands of items of historical significance — painstaking work that largely takes place outside the public’s view.
Online collections database
Browse or search for significant photos and objects from our region’s past. We’re always adding new items, so check back often.
Artifact collections
The collections at MOI tell stories with artifacts and objects that speak to the complexity of Idaho and its inhabitants throughout history. Notable collections at MOI include the Keefer and Dugout Dick Collections of materials from prominent homesteaders, as well as the Wasden Collection — a set of 80,000+ archaeologically significant items and specimen excavated from a cave just west of Idaho Falls.
Document & photo archives
The archives at MOI contain primary source documents and materials, including a large collection of historic and regional photographs, and a non-circulating library of printed materials. The archives is also host to large historic collections, such as:
- documents related to nuclear facilities, including Argonne West, EBR-I, and EBR-II
- early Idaho Falls and Bonneville County logbooks, tax ledgers, and police records
- materials from early local civic clubs, such as the Village Improvement Society, Odd Fellows, and Music Club of Idaho Falls
- collections from regional journalists and photographers
- oral histories from prominent local residents
Research in the archives
Archival collections not available online are available to the public by appointment.
Donate an item
Got something you’d like us to consider for our collection?
Questions?
Contact Kristina at 208.522.1400 ext. 3003 or email.