The settlement of Rexburg began in 1879 when John Poole, an employee of the Utah Northern Railroad, reported fertile soil in the area. In March 1883, pioneers from Salt Lake sought to further cultivate and develop the Upper Snake River Valley. The community was named "Rexburg" after their leader, Thomas E. Ricks (Ricks being German for Rex or King). It grew quickly, attracting individuals eager to bring industry and progress to the region. By Idaho's statehood in 1890 (just 7 years later), Rexburg was the second-largest city in the state. In 1913, Madison County was formed with Rexburg as the leading city at the helm.

City founders prioritized education and commerce as a means to build a strong, family-centric community from the start. They established the Bannock Stake Academy in 1888. It was renamed Ricks College in 1915 and, ultimately became Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-I) in 2001, as it's still known today. BYU-I is a private university operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university continues to see rapid growth, which draws students worldwide and enriches Rexburg’s cultural diversity.

The city also boasts strong foundational schools in elementary through high school education. Recent and continuing expansions to the Madison School District facilities have increased capacity and allowed for the assurance of a family-friendly community.

On June 5th, 1976, waters from the Teton Dam Flood roared through the upper Snake River Valley. Those 80 billion gallons surged from just north of Rexburg all the way south to the American Falls Dam, where they were finally stopped 3 days later. It's estimated that 90% of residents in the affected areas lost 90% of their possessions. 11 lives were lost in the disaster. In the wake of devastation, the community rallied together to rebuild, redefining the importance of the community that banded together to overcome extreme disaster. "This flood was a time of tragedy that profoundly unified Rexburg’s people. The immediate response to the call for humanitarian aid, as well as the compassion and resilience shown in a time of great distress, demonstrates a morale that is unmatched by other places. It is the people of Rexburg who make it “America’s family community.” (from: Defining Rexburg: The History and the People) Mere months after the event, little evidence of the flood remained.

Locals benefit from Rexburg's close proximity to Yellowstone and Teton National Parks, which offer year-round outdoor recreation. Other nearby destinations, like the St. Anthony Sand Dunes and Targhee National Forest, attract adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. These attractions and more make Rexburg a gateway city for tourism sought by visitors from around the world.

With easy access to major highways, a prioritization of education, and a residency that defines the meaning of community, Rexburg boasts an active and educated workforce that is ready to meet the demands of our global economy.

City of Rexburg

City of Rexburg