Meridian
Another of Southwest Idaho’s rapidly growing communities, Meridian is located just 10 miles west of Boise, immediately accessible from Interstate 84. The city’s 2002 estimated population was 44,962.
Meridian History
Like many Idaho towns, Meridian owes its existence to the development of an irrigation system. Its earliest settlers lived along Five Mile Creek, where water was available most of the year. The first school opened in 1885, and a post office opened along the rail line from Boise to Nampa soon after. It was named Hunter. When the Settlers Ditch brought irrigation water in 1892, the population grew. In 1893, an Order of Odd Fellows Lodge was established and chose the name Meridian, because the surveyor’s meridian passes through the town. Lodge members surveyed the town site and named it Meridian after the lodge.
Industry
Farmers planted large fruit orchards, establishing an industry that thrived through the 1940s. The first creamery was built in 1897 and when other dairying related businesses followed, the town became known as a dairy center for the state.
Meridian still celebrates its roots in the dairy industry, with Meridian Dairy Days, held each June. Other fun festivities include the Chili Cook-off in January and the Scarecrow Festival in October.
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Meridian History
