Although he arrived in America penniless, John Lemp became the most successful brewer in the history of Idaho. As befits a business leader of the Gem state, he cut a multitude of other facets into his personal and professional identity. As an early Idaho businessmen, his story gives insights into the early development of the state and, particularly, of Boise. This biography could be interpreted as fitting into the literature of various individual businessmen in the West.