Wallace 'Titan' recognized in new television series

WALLACE ­— Earlier this week Idaho Public Television debuted the first part of their Idaho Experience series.

This week’s episode entitled “Titans” highlighted some of the more prominent Idaho businessmen, including Wallace’s Harry Magnuson and his battle with the National Highway Department in the 1970s to prevent the destruction of homes and buildings as Interstate 90 was built.

Magnuson's fight with the feds is just a slice of his renowned story, which is fully explored in the Idaho Experience debut episode.

Wallace Chamber of Commerce coordinator Dave Copelan sees the special as a way for the rest of the state to gain an insight of one of Wallace’s greatest legends and provide an understanding as to why Wallace still exudes that strong independence.

“The history of Wallace is replete with outsized characters whose achievements continue to capture the imagination of visitors and storytellers the world over,” Copelan said. “The life of Harry Magnuson is one such story. His foresight, courage and determination is a big reason this town survived threats from outside forces bent on its destruction. The legacy of Harry Magnuson is felt every day in this town, this region and the state as a whole. The townspeople of Wallace are very proud to call a man of the caliber of Harry ‘native son.’ And very honored Idaho Public Television selected him and his story to launch their series Idaho Experience."

The show’s producers were amazed at how much they discovered about the state’s various “Titans” and discussed it in a recent interview.

“When I set out to make this program, I didn’t know what to expect,” says producer Aaron Kunz. “But sitting down with family members, historians and friends of Idaho’s titans, I learned that making money was just a small part of who they are. Many of these titans had to give back to Idaho and their community; it was built into their DNA. I hope when you watch this program, you’ll see these recognizable names in a whole new way.”

The show will air several times throughout the coming week, for a full schedule of times or to watch the episode online visit idahoptv.org.