The Story Behind Our Clubhouse Showpieces

When The Idaho Club Clubhouse opened in 2020, we envisioned a centerpiece that would embody the spirit of the North Idaho wilderness—adventure, craftsmanship, and the connections that make this community special. That vision came to life through the generosity and creativity of several members and friends whose personal stories now live on within these walls.

The Alaskan Moose

Donated by Dr. Brett Ueeck The striking bull moose that overlooks our fireplace was harvested by Dr. Brett Ueeck in September 2009 in one of the most remote corners of the Wrangell Mountains in Alaska. Brett and his brother were dropped by float plane onto an unnamed lake with no record of prior landings. After days of scouting and climbing the region’s volcanic mud peaks, they spotted the bull miles away and tracked him through rugged terrain. The hunt concluded with a clean 200-yard shot and a three-day pack-out of more than 1,000 pounds of meat, antlers, and cape. Estimated at nearly 20 years old, the bull’s impressive palm size and mass were enough to qualify for record-book scoring, though Brett ultimately valued the adventure more than the title. He received many offers from lodges wanting to purchase the mount but preferred it remain among friends—a gift that has become a signature presence in our clubhouse.

The Restored Canoe

Donated by Mike Pearson and sons

Gene Hayes works on the canoe

Suspended above in the members lounge is a handcrafted canoe with a story as meaningful as its craftsmanship. The canoe was originally built in the design tradition of Canadian trappers—selected specifically for its classic lines and its connection to North American wilderness travel. After the devastating fire that destroyed the old clubhouse and all of its contents, the Pearson family looked for a way to help lift the spirits of the community. Mike’s oldest son, Michael, worked on the canoe under the guidance of his uncle, Gene Hayes, a Master Craftsman from Monroe, Louisiana. Together, they restored and refinished the boat, giving it new life. The Pearsons donated the canoe as a gesture of support and encouragement during the rebuilding effort. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience, tradition, and the pride families take in contributing to the future of The Idaho Club.

Art by Restitution Press

Original Artwork by Restitution Press

Created by award-winning artist Ryan Graeff Complementing our natural elements is a collection of five original paintings by Ryan Graeff, the son of members Gregg and Beverly Gard. Ryan is a Los Angeles based graffiti and urban artist known professionally as Restitution Press. His work has been featured in galleries, museums, and on PBS’s Artbound. Ryan’s bold colors and expressive style add a vibrant modern dimension to the clubhouse, bringing energy, movement, and storytelling into the space.

The Lens of the Wild: Featured Photography

By Kasey Mueller

Photos by Kasey Mueller

Adding to the clubhouse’s collection of local mastery is the work of our featured award-winning fine art wildlife photographer, Kasey Mueller. Based right here in Northern Idaho, she creates large, limited-edition prints that celebrate the beauty and resilience of the natural world, images made to live on your walls and spark conversation. Each piece in the clubhouse is signed, numbered, and available in gallery editions.

A Tribute to Community

Together, these gifts, the moose, the canoe, and the artwork, reflect the values that define The Idaho Club: adventure in nature, craftsmanship passed through generations, and creativity that inspires. We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Brett Ueeck, Mike Pearson and family, Gene Hayes, Michael Pearson, Ryan Graeff, and Kasey Mueller for helping shape the character of our clubhouse and sharing their stories with us.