Latah County

Latah County is an administrative division in northern Idaho located in the Palouse region, characterized by gentle rolling hills and farmland. The area centers on Moscow, the county seat, and is known for its wheat, lentil, and grain production across its landscape.

The county was established in 1864 and separated from Nez Perce County to form its own administrative unit. Its name comes from Latah Creek and originates from Nez Perce language, referring to pine trees and a grinding tool.

The University of Idaho in Moscow shapes life across the region and draws students and visitors interested in learning and research. This institution's influence shows in local events, museums, and the academic atmosphere you feel throughout the area.

Visitors will find most administrative services concentrated in Moscow, where government offices operate during weekdays. The area is best explored by car since farms and hills spread across a large territory.

The county has an unusual legal history, being created directly by Congressional legislation rather than through state processes like most other American counties. This distinctive founding method made it a notable precedent in how administrative divisions could be established.

Location: Idaho

Inception: December 22, 1864

Capital city: Moscow

Shares border with: Benewah County, Nez Perce County, Shoshone County, Clearwater County, Whitman County

Website: http://latah.id.us

GPS coordinates: 46.84000,-116.67667

Latest update: December 22, 2025 10:56