Exploring Wallace: The Center of the Universe in Idaho

Wallace, Idaho: A Historic Landmark

Imagine a town where every commercial building on Main Street is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s not just a few standout structures scattered around; it’s a multitude of brick and stone buildings, most of which were funded by the booming silver mining industry of the late 19th century. Welcome to Wallace, Idaho, nestled in a narrow canyon in the Bitterroot Mountains, about 135 kilometers from Spokane along Interstate 90. This town also proudly claims to be the 'Center of the Universe.' With a population of nearly 800, you can stroll through the entire town in one afternoon. But don’t be fooled; this place is rich in character, history, and offers plenty of outdoor adventures to keep you busy over the weekend.

The Silver Mining Legacy

The Silver Valley mining area has produced over 1.2 billion ounces of silver since 1884, and you can still see that wealth reflected in the architecture of the town center. Add in a few delicious restaurants, some lively bars, and trails leading in every direction, and Wallace embodies a fascinating past that’s hard to match. If you’re traveling on Interstate 90, don’t miss the chance to take a detour here.

The Story of a Town

This town was founded by Colonel William R. Wallace in 1884 after he purchased land along the South Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River. The allure of silver and gold attracted many settlers, and by the early 1890s, Wallace had become a bustling hub with numerous mines dotting the surrounding hills. Remarkably, a large part of the original downtown still stands today. Despite enduring fires, floods, and economic crises, the brick heart of Wallace remains resilient.

As you wander through about six blocks of the town center, you’ll encounter the historic train station, the Wallace Mining Museum, and shops that retain architectural details from the late 19th century. If you want to dive deeper into mining history, consider joining a tour of the Sierra Silver Mine, where you can enter a real tunnel with a guide. This hands-on experience is much more engaging than reading information panels in a museum.

Local Cuisine

When it comes to food and drink, Wallace truly surprises considering its small size. The 1313 Club serves quality meals in a historic bar. Cogs Gastropub occupies a building that was once the Cogswells Tobacco Factory since 1905. Fainting Goat Wine Bar is beloved for its exquisite menu. While it may not have a vast culinary scene, what’s available here feels authentic and lovingly prepared.

Nature Adventures

Just outside of town, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes stretches 73 miles through the Idaho Panhandle, while the Route of the Hiawatha offers 15 miles of rail trail through tunnels and trestle bridges. Two ski resorts are just a short drive away, with the mountains practically starting right at the roadside.

The Center of the Universe

In the center of Wallace, you’ll find a manhole cover proclaiming this spot as the Center of the Universe. The story stems from the playful spirit of the locals. In September 2004, the town's mayor declared Wallace the center of the universe simply because no one could prove him wrong. To this day, no one has come up with a compelling argument to counter that claim.

This declaration serves as both a publicity stunt and a reflection of Wallace’s unique character. It’s a place where you can encounter a self-proclaimed 'Prime Minister' - Rick Shaffer, who has held the title for many years. Passersby often stop to take pictures at the manhole cover. Some claim there’s a strange echo when you stand on it, but really, it might just be the sound reverberating off the old buildings, not some cosmic phenomenon.

Why You Should Visit Wallace

Honestly, it all makes perfect sense. Wallace has a quirky charm in the best way possible. It boasts an intact historic district, a genuine mining past, mountain views in every direction, and a small enough population where neighbors still greet each other on the street. While the claim of being the Center of the Universe is just a playful joke, it adds a memorable touch to the town. If you’re cruising along I-90 in northern Idaho and can’t decide whether to stop, just go for it. Park, take a stroll, and soak in the atmosphere. The peculiarities of Wallace are anything but contrived; they are entirely genuine.

Article adapted and edited from: Touropia