About Us
In 1834 Thomas McKay, an associate of the Hudson Bay Company, built a fort on the east bank of the Snake River. The fort, now known as Old Fort Boise, was located at the mouth of the Boise River, 40 miles from present day Boise. In 1854, due to frequent Indian raids, the fort was abandoned. Despite this, the military desired to build another fort in the area, but, before this plan could go into effect, gold was discovered in the Boise Basin in 1862. It was now necessary, more than ever, to protect the vast number of travelers coming to the area.
On July 4th, 1863, the military chose a location for the new Fort Boise and construction began soon afterward. A town site was located next to the fort, and with the protection of the military, the town grew quickly. A major reason for this growth, other than the gold rush, was its location along the Oregon Trail. Parma’s Old Fort Boise on the Eastern edge of town has a replica of Fort Boise, a museum and an authentic pioneer cabin. An RV park, picnic area and campground are available at the west end of the park.
Jim And Frances Jefferies 2026 Old Fort Boise Days Grand Marshals
Jim and Frances Jefferies have been married for 40 years and are proud parents of three children, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Dedicated members of the Parma Lions Club, they have also faithfully cared for the Fort Historical Society since 2000. Their family’s love of bowling earned them the honor of Ada County Bowling Family of the Year in 2025.
Frances Jefferies grew up in the Parma area and graduated from Parma High School in 1958. Her career included work with Sealy Drug, the Apple Commission in Parma, and M&W in Nyssa, Oregon, before retiring in 2001.
Jim Jefferies served eight years in the United States Air Force before moving to Parma in 1963. Over the years, he worked for Parma Water Lifters, Ace Supply, and the Parma School District, where he served as a custodian until, as he says, “the kids wore him out.” He retired in 1999.
Together, Jim and Frances have devoted their lives to family, community service, and preserving local history, making them a wonderful choice as Grand Marshals for Old Fort Boise Days 2026.
2025 Old Fort Boise Days Theme: MILESTONES
Join in on all the fun this year with this fun theme!
Build a float and enter the parade.
America is turning 250
Parma Rural Fire is turning 75
Celebrate your "Milestone" with us this year.
Donate Now
Please support Old Fort Boise Days by donating today!
**PLEASE READ**
We need more participation from the community in ALL the contests we have planned for Old Fort Boise Days. Our committee has worked hard to plan a fun week for the community. We hope you will come out to join us and get involved so we can continue to provide these fun community events!!
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