About Us

Dry Creek Historical Society Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Dry Creek Historical Society to inspire respect for the past; to enrich our understanding of the present through historic preservation; to contribute to the preservation of the agricultural history of Ada County and the Dry Creek Valley; to preserve and support the Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead; and to partner with local and regional history organizations to promote a vibrant connection among the past, present and future.

Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead Mission

It is the mission of the Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead to serve as an agricultural history learning center for the Dry Creek Valley; to convey to the public the importance of Idaho's agricultural history through exhibits, school programs, living history events, site tours and educational speakers; and to preserve and protect the material culture of the Farmstead's past.

Historic Preservation and Archaeology

The Farmstead contains one of the oldest intact houses in the State of Idaho. The site is listed in the National Register for its significance in the agricultural history of the state. The site is valued both for it's historic building and as an important archaeological site. As managers of the historic site, the DCHS follows the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the preservation of historic properties. Careful adherence to the standards ensures that the Farmstead retains its irreplaceable historical integrity and retains its listing in the National Register.

We've Been Recognized!

2022

June 30 - NPR Idaho Matters Interview with Frank Eld

Idaho Matters interviewed our very own Frank Eld, the Barn Whisperer, to get the history of the Schick-Ostolasa barn. Click below to read and hear the interview.

January 23, 2022 - Interview with KIVI's Don Nelson

Our very own director and historian, Jay Karamales, was interviewed on KIVI's Channel 6. Jay tells the history of the farmstead with some fun facts that you likely have not heard before! This interview aired on January 23, 2022. Please click below to view.

2021

October 21, 2021 - Pioneer Award

The Dry Creek Historical Society has created a yearly award, the Pioneer Award! This award recognizes those who are key to the preservation of history in the Dry Creek Valley.

This award was given to Robert Ostolasa - in recognition of his knowledge and expertise in significantly advancing our understanding and appreciation of the legacy of the Dry Creek Valley.

September 26, 2021 - Ada County Historical Preservation Council

The Dry Creek Historical Society received the County Treasure Award for the restoration of the Schick-Ostolasa Barn. Presented to DCHS President, Cyndi Elliot, Barn Whisperer, Frank Eld, and Historian and Board Member, Jay Karamales

June 26, 2021 - Preservation Idaho Award - Onions and Orchids

The Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead Granary Historic Restoration Project in Dry Creek is awarded an Excellence in Historic Preservation. The Boise State University Construction Management Association and Chairman Dr. Casey Cline did an incredibly thorough job with this historic restoration, ensuring that the materials were properly replicated or milled and more. Click here for more information!

March 17, 2021 - PBS Outdoor Idaho, Barns of Idaho

We were thrilled to be included in the PBS Special, the Barns of Idaho. Meet our very own board member and Barn Whisperer, Frank Eld as he talks about the preservation of the Schick Barn. Fast forward to 36:20 to see the Schick Barn portion of the episode.

2009

DCHS were the first Idaho recipients of the Alfred E. Corey Award from the American Association for State and Local History, and Idaho Governor, C. L. "Butch" Otter declared September 17, 2009 as Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead Day.

2007

Orchid Award from the Preservation Idaho for our historic preservation work on the Farmstead.