The Idaho 2 Goldback: A History of Boise’s Basque Block

The Idaho 2 Goldback is a tribute to the Basque community in Idaho. The artwork is set on the Basque Block in downtown Boise and features traditional symbols and dance. Basque immigrants arrived in Idaho over 130 years ago, and their culture is still alive there today. That lasting influence inspired us to feature their story on the 2 denomination.

Basque Roots in Idaho

Basque immigrants began arriving in Idaho in the late nineteenth century. Opportunity in the American West, particularly in sheep herding, drew them to Idaho’s open ranges. Sheep were included in the Idaho 2 design as a reference to this history.

Today, Boise is home to one of the largest Basque communities in the United States. Annual festivals continue those traditions that have been passed down since their arrival in Idaho.

Uztai Txiki on the Basque Block

The artwork on the Idaho 2 shows a group performing Uztai Txiki, also known as Arco Dantza, a traditional hoop dance from the Gipuzkoa province. The dancers hold small wooden hoops decorated with ribbons and strike them in rhythm as they move in coordinated patterns. This dance is still part of Basque celebrations in Boise today. 

Beneath the central dancer is the Boise Basque cross, a locally recognized version of the lauburu. This symbol connects the design directly to Boise’s Basque community and its long-standing presence in the city. 

Collaboration with the Basque Museum & Cultural Center

The design process included review and input from representatives of the Basque Museum & Cultural Center in Boise. The Museum itself appears in the background of the artwork to honor its role in preserving language, history, and tradition. Behind the Basque Block stands the Idaho State Capitol. Its presence acknowledges the Basque community’s lasting role in Idaho’s civic and economic development.

This collaboration helped align the artwork with Basque culture, both past and present. We’d like to thank the Basque Museum for helping us keep historical accuracy.

Preserving a Living Story

The Idaho 2 Goldback honors a history and culture still alive in Idaho today. We’re grateful for the opportunity to preserve this story in the Idaho series. The design reflects a Basque principle that fits Idaho well: “Denon artean egina, erraz egina.” What is done together is done easily.