Star

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Star is part of Ada County just west of Eagle and about 17 miles from Boise. It has a population of just over 11,000 and growing daily with new subdivisions and new businesses.  Although it's located in Ada County, parts of it do extend into Canyon County.  It's just under 6 square miles in size.  The 1905 the city was incorporated. Star's growth  increased with the building of the electric Interurban Railway in 1907 which went from Star to Boise. The town was unincorporated in 1928 when the RR was shut down and the population and businesses declined.  In 1997 a proclamation was put forth to establish the physical boundaries of the current city of Star. 

Star got its name from the travelers that used the star nailed on the original school house to determine East from West on their way to/from Boise.  Upon seeing the star, they also knew lodging was nearby.  This original schoolhouse built in the 1870's, was replaced by a red brick schoolhouse located on River Street in 1903.  

The area was first settled by Ben F. Swalley who drove is team of oxen onto 300 acres of land a mile south of the current town of Star. More settlers followed because of the fertile land along the Boise River. These farmers frequently provided food and lodging tor miners and travelers heading to/from Boise. A branch of the Oregon Trail went through the current location of Star, right along what is today's Highway 44.  In 1880 a post office was built and a hotel was added in 1888.   

Horse races along Main Street were very popular and well attended in the early 1900's.  Baseball games usually followed the races.  Young people would often charter a trolley to go into Boise for the evening.  Stock sales were held monthly on the third Saturday of the month.  There was a Literary Society and a Debating  Society and the town had a skating rink.  A new high school was built in 1912. Star reached its highest population of just over 600 in 1928. 

This popular racing attraction was opened in 1969 and is still run by the younger members of the founding family.  Two of their biggest events are the Fox Hunt in June and the Nightfire Nationals hels every August. 

Star Country Cafe, located on the main highway running through the city, is probably the most popular eatery in the area.  I've been - it's excellent country fare and very friendly staff and customers.

El Mariachi Loco is a full service Mexican restaurant in town. it has great reviews on Yelp and is open daily.   Sully's Pub & Grill and the Flats are two other local eateries. 

The Milled Olive is one of my fave stores in Star.  They carry a nice selection - around 100 varieties of oils and vinegars. They also offer pastas, soup mixes, lotions and soaps,  plus an array of items for for pantry and home.  Check out the carefully restored circa 1930s cottage which is now Helina Marie's Wine Bar and Wine Shop.  Enjoy fine wine either inside or outside and be sure to check out their events page.