Idaho Falls Honors Pioneering Woman with Bronze Statue

Rebecca Mitchell, a forgotten community leader, is immortalized in a new public artwork.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:19am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration depicting a bronze statue of a woman holding a shovel and a banner, representing the pioneering spirit and civic leadership of Rebecca Mitchell in Idaho Falls.A new bronze statue in Idaho Falls celebrates the pioneering spirit and civic leadership of Rebecca Mitchell, a forgotten community hero who helped shape the city's early development.Idaho Falls Today

The city of Idaho Falls is unveiling a 7-foot bronze statue honoring Rebecca Brown Mitchell, a Baptist woman who arrived in the area in 1882 and played a pivotal role in the city's development and advocacy for women's rights. Mitchell's story was largely unknown until recently, when local historians and community members worked to rediscover and celebrate her groundbreaking contributions.

Why it matters

The Mitchell statue project shines a light on the often overlooked contributions of women in shaping early American communities. It serves as a powerful reminder that history is not just about grand events, but also the everyday heroes who make an impact through their determination and vision. This project encourages the Idaho Falls community to explore its own local history and recognize the unsung pioneers who paved the way.

The details

The statue, designed by sculptor Irene Juliette Deely, depicts Mitchell holding a shovel to represent her role as a 'groundbreaker' in the city's infrastructure, as well as a banner for women's suffrage and the temperance movement. This visual representation aims to capture Mitchell's multifaceted impact on Idaho Falls, from her contributions to the city's development to her advocacy for women's rights.

  • Rebecca Mitchell arrived in Eagle Rock (now Idaho Falls) in 1882.
  • Idaho became the fourth state to recognize women's right to vote, thanks in part to Mitchell's efforts.

The players

Rebecca Brown Mitchell

A Baptist woman who arrived in Eagle Rock (now Idaho Falls) in 1882 and played a pivotal role in the city's development and advocacy for women's rights.

Callie Avondet

The leader of the Rebecca Mitchell Project, which worked to rediscover and celebrate Mitchell's forgotten legacy.

Irene Juliette Deely

The sculptor commissioned to create the bronze statue of Rebecca Mitchell, known for her ability to bring historical figures to life in her artwork.

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What they’re saying

“It's quite astonishing that someone like Mitchell, who had such a profound impact on the city, could be relatively unknown to its residents.”

— the author

What’s next

The statue of Rebecca Mitchell is set to be unveiled in a public ceremony in Heritage Park, where it will stand as a permanent tribute to her legacy and inspire future generations.

The takeaway

The Rebecca Mitchell statue project is a powerful example of how uncovering and celebrating the stories of forgotten pioneers can foster a deeper sense of community pride and appreciation for local history. It serves as a reminder that the most inspiring stories are often hidden in plain sight, waiting to be rediscovered and shared.