In the charming town of Rigby, Idaho, a unique museum stands as a testament to both groundbreaking technological innovation and rich local history. The Farnsworth Tv And Pioneer Museum is dedicated to Philo T. Farnsworth, the largely unsung inventor of television, while also preserving and showcasing the pioneer heritage of the region. This fascinating museum offers visitors an enriching experience, blending the story of a world-changing invention with the captivating narrative of early settlers in East Idaho.
Located at 118 W. First South in Rigby, the Farnsworth TV and Pioneer Museum attracts a diverse range of visitors, from technology enthusiasts to history buffs and families seeking an engaging outing. The museum is not just a tribute to Farnsworth’s genius; it’s a vibrant repository of local culture, housing an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia that paint a vivid picture of life in bygone eras.
Exterior view of the Farnsworth TV and Pioneer Museum in Rigby, Idaho, showcasing its unique architecture and welcoming entrance.
A Treasure Trove of History and Innovation
Spanning over 13,000 square feet, the museum’s exhibits are remarkably diverse. Visitors can explore collections ranging from vintage chainsaws and military relics to meticulously preserved animal skins and thoughtfully curated rooms that represent different communities within eastern Idaho. This eclectic mix provides a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s past.
“It shows local culture, how people lived back then,” explains Cleave Reddick, the museum’s knowledgeable curator. This dedication to showcasing everyday life from the past makes the museum relatable and engaging for visitors of all ages. Many of the items on display are generously loaned by local residents, fostering a strong sense of community ownership and pride in the museum. To enhance the visitor experience, children are given scavenger hunt sheets upon arrival, encouraging them to actively explore the exhibits and discover hidden gems throughout the museum.
Originally established in the basement of the Rigby library, the museum relocated to its current distinctive building in 1993. The building itself has an interesting history, having been originally built in the 1960s as the Bond Motel. It briefly functioned as a mini-mall before falling into disrepair and being condemned. The city then acquired the property, and the Jefferson County Historical Society leased the space, breathing new life into it and transforming it into the beloved museum it is today. Thanks to collaborative efforts from the historical society, county, city, and dedicated volunteers from the St. Anthony Work Camp, the building was revitalized and now serves as a cherished destination for those seeking to connect with the past.
Inside the Farnsworth TV and Pioneer Museum, displaying a diverse collection of historical artifacts and exhibits representing local culture and Philo Farnsworth's television invention.
Celebrating Philo Farnsworth: The Father of Television
A significant portion of the museum, approximately 400 square feet, is dedicated to celebrating the life and groundbreaking inventions of Philo T. Farnsworth. Born in Utah but raised on a farm in Rigby, Farnsworth displayed an early fascination with mechanical innovations. His childhood interests included trains, telephones, and phonographs, and he even played the violin, an instrument that is proudly displayed in the museum’s Farnsworth exhibit. From a young age, he experimented with motors and generators, demonstrating his innate curiosity and inventive spirit. At just 13, he won a contest by Science and Invention magazine, foreshadowing his future accomplishments.
Driven by a quest to develop television, Farnsworth immersed himself in existing theories but found them lacking. A pivotal moment of inspiration struck him while plowing potato fields on his family farm. Observing the parallel rows, he envisioned how they could be translated into a moving picture, scanned line by line. His high school science teacher, Mr. Tolman, recognized Farnsworth’s brilliance and enthusiastically encouraged his ideas, providing crucial early support.
Later, in Utah, Farnsworth gained the attention of investors for his revolutionary Image Dissector, also known as the camera tube. This device was capable of converting an image into an electrical current, a fundamental breakthrough in television technology. After years of dedicated work, Farnsworth publicly demonstrated his invention in 1927, marking a monumental moment in technological history. The Farnsworth exhibit at the museum showcases a rich collection of his awards, patents, early television tubes, and personal items, offering an intimate look at the inventor’s life and legacy.
A Community Gem Worth Discovering
Museum volunteer Karol Getsinger, daughter of former curator Glena Smith, passionately encourages residents of eastern Idaho and beyond to visit the Farnsworth TV and Pioneer Museum. “It’s folksy, not fancy,” she aptly describes the museum’s welcoming atmosphere. “Locals need to come and see. People who have lived here their whole life come in and are surprised. These are their ancestors. People need to realize what’s here and how important it is.”
The museum operates with a small but dedicated team of around 10 volunteers and is always seeking additional support. Volunteers are needed to greet visitors, conduct tours, and assist with general upkeep. Curator Reddick also highlights the need for volunteers with web development skills to enhance the museum’s online presence and help archive its extensive collection of photos and stories, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
For those planning a visit, it is recommended to call the museum at 208-745-8423 to confirm current operating hours and plan your trip to this unique cultural and technological landmark. The Farnsworth TV and Pioneer Museum offers an unforgettable experience, celebrating both a pivotal invention and the enduring spirit of a pioneering community.
