Historical Society seeks history nominations

The Idaho State Historical Society is seeking nominations for its 12th annual Esto Perpetua awards.

The awards honor significant contributions to the preservation of Idaho history through professional accomplishment, public service, volunteerism, and/or philanthropy. Any organization, business, government entity or individual is eligible to receive the awards. Nominations must be postmarked June 1.

The awards will be presented on Oct. 7 in Boise.

"These awards allow the agency to acknowledge and thank those people and institutions who have made a difference in our common missions of preserving and protecting Idaho history," said Tom Blanchard, chair of the board of trustees of the ISHS, an agency of state government.

Nominations can be made by filling out a nomination form or by sending a letter that includes the name, address and telephone number of the candidate and a narrative description of the worthiness of the candidate for the award. Criteria include:

• exemplary accomplishments in the preservation of Idaho's cultural or natural heritage assets;

• demonstrated commitment to the education, protection and interpretation of Idaho's cultural or natural assets, and the integration of these assets into community life; and

• innovative, creative and responsible approaches to showcasing Idaho's historic resources in their communities.

Nomination forms are available online at www.idahohistory.net/estoperpetua.html.

Anyone can nominate an individual or organization for the award, but contact information must also be included for those making a nomination. Prior nominees who have not received the award may be submitted for consideration again this year.

Nominations should be sent to the Idaho State Historical Society, Esto Perpetua Award, 2205 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise ID 83712.