BOISE BENCH, Idaho — The Boise City Council voted Tuesday to designate the beloved “Betty the Washerwoman” sign on the Boise Bench as a local historic landmark – solidifying the 1950s-era animatronic's place in the city’s cultural landscape.
Betty, originally built as a metal mechanical sign for the Econowash Maytag Laundry around 1959, sits along Vista Avenue and has long been associated with mid-century growth on the Bench. City staff said the sign reflects a period of post-World War II development, roadside advertising, and neighborhood identity that helped define the corridor.
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The application was brought forward by the Boise Historic Preservation Commission, which noted that only two other landmarks currently exist on the Bench – the Boise Depot and Temple Beth Israel.
“It’s really been iconic over 70 years on the bench and has become a cherished bench icon,” council member Jimmy Hallyburton said.
The designation does not change ownership of the sign, nor does it restrict the long-running tradition of dressing Betty in themed outfits. City staff clarified that clothing changes can continue — including holiday costumes and past stints as a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle.
The State Historic Preservation Office has also determined the sign is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, though that listing would require a separate process.
The vote was unanimous, receiving cheers from the audience.
Council member Lucille Willetts added, “Thanks for saving Betty.”
