The name: The town was named after Melba Todd, daughter of founder C.C. Todd.

History: The following are some historical facts about the town that in its early years established itself as a hub of the farming community:

• For years, the town was considered “the seed heart of America” and became known for its production of seed corn, carrots and onions.
• Several streets were named for founder Clayton C. Todd’s acquaintances and relatives. Carrie Rex was named after Todd’s daughter. Randolph was named after one of his friends.
• According to local historian Madge Wylie, Todd’s establishment of the town came as somewhat of a fluke.

He was originally on his way to Alaska when he stopped in southern Idaho to visit a friend in Weiser. On the tip of his friend, Todd invested in 160 sagebrush-covered acres along the railroad tracks. Later, Todd and his friend Ed Laughlin collected signatures to establish a post office and Laughlin suggested naming the town Melba after Todd’s 4-year-old daughter.

• Electricity came to the town in about 1935.
• The Walter’s Butte Grange organized the fire and cemetery districts. The grange also hosted the first high school classes and church services.

Trivia fact: According to Wylie, Melba is the originator of the community auction for charity. The first Melba Community Auction was held in 1949 and raised more than $2,000 for two polio victims.