1. On July 17, 1918, an earthquake measuring 4.2 on the Richter scale struck near the Idaho town of Hailey. It caused minor damage to buildings and was also felt in several neighboring towns.

2. In 1955, on July 17, the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) was established. It was originally named the National Reactor Testing Station (NRTS), and its primary purpose was to test and develop nuclear reactors for the US Navy.

3. On July 17, 1863, a group of settlers in southeastern Idaho established the town of Franklin. It was one of the earliest communities in the region and played an important role in the growth and development of the state.

4. In 1899, on July 17, construction began on the Minidoka Irrigation Project in southern Idaho. The project was designed to bring water to the arid region and help farmers grow crops more efficiently.

5. On July 17, 1963, Idaho Governor Robert Smylie declared a state of emergency due to a severe drought that was affecting the state. The drought lasted for several years and led to water shortages, crop failures, and other hardships for farmers and residents throughout Idaho.