Grangeville Student Launches “Lookouts in Idaho” Card Deck

A new deck of playing cards titled “Lookouts in Idaho” has been released by 16-year-old Grangeville High School junior Brody Mignerey. This project, inspired by Idaho’s historical landmarks and local lookouts, showcases a blend of educational content and artistic design, making it a noteworthy addition to regional memorabilia.

Mignerey’s interest in lookouts began with his visit to Heaven’s Gate, and he has since collaborated with his grandfather, Jerry Johnson, who previously created a deck focused on Idaho County history. Together with his aunt, Hayley Johnson, they aimed to develop a card deck that would appeal to a broader audience.

Card Deck Highlights Local History

The “Lookouts in Idaho” deck features detailed cards that include artistic renderings of various lookouts across the state. Each card also provides relevant information such as the lookout’s location, elevation, and dates of service. Mignerey emphasized the importance of accuracy, stating, “My grandpa is really concerned with accuracy and details, and I think it turned out really well.”

A notable feature of the deck is a card that includes a map pinpointing the locations of each lookout throughout Idaho. Additionally, the deck is dedicated to two lookout personnel who tragically lost their lives at Bertha Hill Lookout: Glenn Frazier, who died on June 13, 1932, after being struck by lightning, and Maida L. Talbott, who passed away on July 16, 1964, while on duty.

The card deck, retailing for $11.50, is currently available through Raven’s Gambit Playing Card Co., located in Kamiah. Mignerey also plans to sell the cards at the upcoming Grangeville Elementary/Middle School craft fair, scheduled for next Saturday. In addition, they can be purchased at ravensgambit.com.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

The project not only showcases Idaho’s rich history but also reflects a strong community spirit. Mignerey and his family conducted extensive research on the materials used in the cards, ensuring high quality. He explained, “We researched the type of material and the way the linen fibers line up on the cards. It makes a big difference in their quality and how they shuffle.”

Classmate Callie Weisz demonstrated the card’s quality, noting, “It shuffles really well. It’s really smooth.” This attention to detail underscores the dedication behind the project.

The release of “Lookouts in Idaho” is a significant achievement for Mignerey, highlighting both his personal interests and the value of local history. This endeavor not only preserves Idaho’s heritage but also provides an engaging way for residents and visitors alike to connect with the state’s scenic landscapes and historical landmarks.

As the launch approaches, Mignerey and his team are excited about the potential impact of their project. The deck serves as a reminder of Idaho’s natural beauty and the stories embedded within its lookouts, ensuring that these histories are shared and celebrated within the community.