CCHS Members Meeting - Come Celebrate
Saturday, February 23, 2019

The Carson City Historical Society will be holding a members' meeting on Saturday, February 23, 2019, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., in the Carriage House. Girl Scout Troop 1951 will unveil their historic display commemoorating the Nevada Children's Home. Come see their creation and hear their presentation.

A brief business meeting will take place to take a second vote to amend the CCHS Bylaws. This amendment will eliminate the annual distribution of a hard-copy membership card.

Refreshments will be served. CCHS Members are free! Non-members, please make a $3.00 donation. You may also renew your membership or join CCHS at the event.

Pictured: Members of Girl Scout Troop 1951 working on their Children's Home project, using one of the stones salvaged from a gym renovation project.

A special "Blue Line" walking tour
Saturday, March 16, 2019

On Saturday, March 16, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., the Carson City Historical Society will present a special "Blue Line" walking tour of the historic Carson City westside neighborhood. The event is free of charge to the public. The tour starts in the front courtyard of the Nevada State Museum on N. Carson Street. The length of the walk is 1.5 miles. It lasts about 90 minutes while covering Nevada and Carson City history and viewing numerous historic homes and buildings along the way. The Abraham Curry House, the Ferris Mansion, the Brewery Arts Center, the Stewart-Nye House, the Clemens House, the Bliss Mansion, several former Governors' homes and the current Governor's Mansion will be included.

The tour is free but tips support the work of the Carson City Historical Society. The tour leader is Debbie Lane, President of the Carson City Historical Society. For questions, she can be reached at 775-350-9949.

Pictured: The Abraham Curry House in Carson City.

Sue Ballew Presentation Postponed
(Future date to be detemined)

The April 7, 2019, presentation by Sue Ballew has been postponed to a future date. We will keep you posted for a reschedule of her interesting presentation on "Annie Roberts Diary and Carson City History."

Another Blue Line Tour is Scheduled
Saturday, April 27, 2019

A special historic Blue Line tour of the Carson City westside neighborhood will be offered for CCHS members, friends and the public. It will be on Saturday, April 27, 2019, starting at 10:00 a.m.

This activity is back by popular demand. (We had 60 participants on March 16!) We will start in the front courtyard of the Nevada State Museum on Carson Street and walk about 1.5 miles for 90 minutes, learning Nevada and Carson City history. The Curry House, the Ferris Mansion, the Brewery Arts Center, the Stewart-Nye House, the Clemens House, the Bliss Mansion, and several former Governors' homes, including the current Governor's Mansion, will be included.

Special Earth Day event at Foreman-Roberts House
Sunday, April 28, 2019

Earth Day has been celebrated on April 22nd each year since 1970, but a special Earth Day event will be held in Carson City on Sunday, April 28, 2019. "Great Basin Beekeepers of Nevada" and "Bee City USA #76 - Carson City" are co-sponsoring "Carson City Earth Day Celebrates Pollinators." The event is from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Foreman-Roberts House, 1207 N. Carson St., Carson City. The event is hosted by the Carson City Historical Society.

Bring the whole family. There will be fun and educational exhibits on gardening, integrated pest management, and growing plants and flowers that benefit pollinators.

Exhibitors include local garden clubs, Great Basin Beekeepers of Nevada, Cooperative Extension, Greenhouse Garden Center, and many others. Learn how you and your family can protect pollinators and the environment. Information sessions will be on the lawn.

To view the poster as a larger PDF, click on the image at right. Image will appear in a separate window.

Historical Society Offering Eastside Tour
Saturday, May 25, 2019

Get out your walking shoes! On Saturday, May 25, 2019, starting at 9:00 a.m. in front of the Capitol building on North Carson Street, the Carson City Historical Society will be offering a 90-minute walking tour to view historic sites east of N. Carson Street, starting with the Capitol Mall area. Sites will include the Capitol and the Capitol Mall, the Charles Friend Park, the historic area called Chinatown, the old Armory, the site of the former Nevada Orphans Home, the early racetrack and location of the Corbett-Fitzsimmons fight, and more. We will end at the old V&T Railroad Depot on the corner of N. Carson and Washington Street.

The tour is free, but tips support the work of the Historical Society. Debbie Lane, President of the Historical Society, will be the tour guide. She can be reached at 775-350-9949.

Short Movie on Inventor George Ferris
Monday, June 3, 2019

On Monday, June 3, 2019, seven members of the Carson City Historical Society hosted members of the Bordewich-Bray Elementary School's 5th grade class at the Carriage House. Their parents, siblings, and grandparents attended the showing of their short feature movie project on George Ferris and the invention of the Ferris Wheel. After the showing, a game of Jeopardy was played using the information that had been presented in the movie as the questions.

Refreshments were served and attendees toured the Foreman-Roberts House before going home.

Three Open Houses Scheduled for the Summer of 2019
Sun., June 23, 2019
Wed., July 17, 2019
Sun., Aug. 18, 2019

The Carson City Historical Society has scheduled three Open Houses this summer. Here is your opportunity to tour the Foreman-Roberts House and check out the historical displays in the adjoining Carriage House. The dates are June 23 (1:00 to 4:00 p.m.), July 17 (5:00 to 7:00 p.m.), and Aug. 18 (1:00 to 4:00 p.m.).

Mark your calendars now to you don't miss the fun.

Foreman-Roberts House Museum Open House
Sunday, June 23, 2019

The Foreman-Roberts House Museum, 1207 N. Carson St., will be having an Open House on Sunday, June 23, 2019, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Highlights of Carson City history and the families that lived in this historic house are presented on a free, docent led tour of the Foreman-Roberts House. After touring the Museum, enjoy light refreshments in the Carriage and view the informative displays.

You will see exhibits and artifacts from the Victorian era, the Roberts family and fascinating historical information about Carson City. Enjoy the museum/historic house including the new second floor exhibits.

This will be the first Open House of the Summer, so please come and enjoy stepping back into Carson City history. Two other Open House events are scheduled this summer: July 17 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and August 18 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Tours and admission are free - no reservations are required. The event is sponsored by the members of the Carson City Historical Society. For questions, call 775-887-2174.

Carson City Historical Society Ice Cream Social
Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019

The annual Carson City Historical Society Ice Cream Social is Saturday, August 10, 2019, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Foreman-Roberts House Museum Park, 1207 N. Carson Street, Carson City.

Free entertainment will be provided by the Millennium Bugs. Enjoy ice cream with toppings or a root beer float for only $3 each.

Bring a chair, use one of ours, or bring a blanket and sit on the grass to enjoy the evening's entertainment.

The Carson City Historical Society sponsors this event, and it is part of the "Jazz and Beyond-Carson City Music Festival."

Acoustic Tiles Installed in Carriage House
August 2019

Acoustic tiles were recently installed on the ceiling of the Carriage House. This has improved the quality of sound in the building. This will make presentations and meetings a lot easier, since the echo-y sound has been eliminated. If you are looking for a place to hold your next meeting or presentation, considering contacting us about using the Carriage House. We can hold presentations for up to 44 people.

Foreman-Roberts House Museum Open House
Sunday, August 18, 2019

There will be a Foreman-Roberts House Museum Open House on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. The building is located at 1207 N. Carson St., Carson City.

Highlights of Carson City history and the families that lived in this historic house are presented on a free, docent led tour of the Foreman-Roberts House. After touring the Museum, enjoy light refreshments in the Carriage House and view the informative displays

You will see exhibits and artifacts from the Victorian era, the Roberts family, and fascinating historical information about Carson City. Enjoy the museum/historic house including the new second floor exhibits.

This will be the last Open House of the Summer, so please come and enjoy stepping back into Carson City history.

Tours and admission are free - no reservations are required. The event is sponsored by the members of the Carson City Historical Society. For questions, call 775-887-2174.

Heritage Festival to Celebrate CCHS's 50th Anniversary
Saturday, September 21, 2019

Carson City Historical Society (CCHS) will present a Heritage Festival to celebrate the 50th year of the Society. The event will be held at the Foreman-Roberts House Museum Park, 1207 N. Carson St. from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2019. CCHS began as the Nevada Landmarks Society in 1969. The Foreman-Roberts House Museum will be open to tour, and the Carriage House will be open with new displays. This is a free event.

Entertainment, starting at 10:30 a.m. will include musician and historian, Chris Bayer; Historic Chautauqua performances, depicting Abe Curry, his daughter, and Hannah Clapp, starting at 12:30 p.m. and continuing until 2:30 p.m.

At noon there is slated to be a short program starting with a city official, recognition of significant contributions to the Society by members by Society President Debbie Lane, and free cake and lemonade in the Carriage House.

Vintage demonstrators of "old arts" such as weaving, spinning, rug braiding, tanner, back powder rifle maker, flint arrowhead maker, saddle maker, and more will be on the lawn for the entire event.

Food will be available for purchase from the vintage Comma Coffee Food Trailer on site.

Transcontinental Railroad Presentation by Mike Thomas
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019

Carson City Historical Society will have a dinner and presentation on the Transcontinental Railroad by Mike Thomas on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019. Thomas' lecture will focus on the events that transpired to unify our country through the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad System. Mike Thomas is known for his well-researched and entertaining history and science presentations. This evening he will be presenting a dynamic lecture on the events that transpired in order to unify our country through the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad System.

The event will take place at Bleu Café, 240 E. Winnie Lane. Doors open at 5:40 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. and the lecture at 7 p.m.

Cost is $30 per person and must be prepaid by Oct. 5. Reservations are required; they are non-refundable but transferrable. At the time of your reservation, please choose from the following: Encrusted Chicken Breast with Dijon Cream Sauce, OR Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy, OR Garden Vegetarian Lasagna with Gluten Free Pasta and a salad. (Entrees include sautéed green beans, garlic mashed potatoes and a salad, bread/butter, water, tea or coffee.) Dessert will be Vanilla Mousse with fresh fruit. No Host Bar is available.

Call Paula Cannon at 775-887- 8865 for reservations.

Click here to download flyer at right.

Autumn Members Meeting Presents Speaker Sue Ballew
and Discussion on the Future of CCHS
Sunday, November 17, 2019

The Carson City Historical Society will have an Autumn Members Meeting on Sunday, November 17, 2019, at 1:30 p.m. in the Carriage House, adjacent to the Foreman-Roberts House Museum, 1207 North Carson St., Carson City.

Come hear Former CCHS President, Sue Ballew, tell the story of Annie Roberts, wife of James Roberts, and her journey to America at age 9 in 1854 on the ship called "The Blanche." Annie stays in New Orleans with family, and even has a Governess... Join us to "hear the rest of the story" of Annie's journey and life in America. Light refreshments will be served.

We will also be having an important discussion about the future of the Historical Society. Without more help and support from our members, our future is in jeopardy. Four of six Board positions are open, including President. The nominating committee is seeking your help! Please come to this important meeting.

Historical Society Holiday Party at Bliss Mansion
Sunday, December 8, 2019

Carson City Historical Society cordially invites you to our Annual Holiday Party, Sunday, December 8, 2019, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Bliss Mansion, 608 Elizabeth Street Carson City, NV.

The event will be a buffet lunch with wine. There will be a Chautauqua by Ron Roberts as Governor Roswell Colcord, and the election of officers and Board members. The price is $30 per person. Advanced reservations are required by December 4. Checks should be made out to "CCHS" and mailed to Paula Cannon, 138 Rice Street, Carson City, NV 89706 or call to reserve at 775-887-8865.

New and Old Board Members
Hold Strategic Planning Meeting
Monday, Dec. 16, 2019

Members of the current 2019 CCHS Board met with some new 2020 Board members and other CCHS members on Monday, Dec. 16, 2019, in the Carriage House to go over Strategic Planning for 2020 and beyond. In the first picture, Pres. Debbie Lane, standing, gathers ideas in a brainstorming session. Pictured from left to right are Kiyoshi Nishikawa, Bonnie Nishikawa, Andi Fant, Steve Brenneman, Cyndy Brenneman, Debbie Lane, Donna McLaren, Sue Ballew, Jeff Loflin, Gary Yoakum, and Kathleen "Kat" Long. (Not pictured: David Bugli.)

Everybody contributed ideas. Strengths and weaknesses were identified. Various approaches to making CCHS a better organization were presented, compared, and considered. Although there is more planning to be done, the most likely short term actions the new Board will promote is the opening of the Foreman-Roberts House on a more frequent basis, producing a monthly newsletter built around events and activities, and building a closer working relationship with groups such as the Carson City Culture and Tourism Authority (especially as it relates to the Kit Carson Trail), the Chamber of Commerce, the Nevada State Museum, and the Nevada State Prison Preservation Society. Further strategic planning is likely to be considered at the Board meeting on Feb. 10, 2020, at 3:45 p.m. in the Carriage House.

Carson City Historical Society "SAVE ADELE'S" Strategy
Media Release: Friday, Dec. 27, 2019

The Carson City Historical Society Board held an emergency meeting on December 21 to discuss the imminent demolition of Adele's, and strategized on how this historic building could be preserved. The Board voted to pursue a fundraising campaign to work with the community to preserve the 155-year-old Adele's building at 1112 North Carson Street, Carson City, Nevada. The Board has set up a special "Save Adele's" fund, and has donated $1000 of its own funds to the effort. Community donations towards this effort can be made through the GoFundMe site: CCHISTORICALSOCIETYSAVEADELE'S or send checks earmarked: SAVEADELE'S and made out to the Carson City Historical Society. Checks should be mailed to CCHS, 112 North Curry Street, Carson City, NV 89703. The Board's intent is to make funds available to a future building owner in exchange for a commitment to the preservation of the historical portion of the building. Jacksons Food Stores Inc., who recently received permission to expand onto the site, has offered the building for free to anyone who would like to move it by March 1, 2020. The Society looks forward to working with Jacksons Food Stores, Inc. and the future building owner to ensure the building is preserved. The goal set for SAVEADELE'S fundraising campaign is $100,000.

This historic building was originally built by Captain Porter of the V&T workshops in 1874 and purchased by Benjamin F. Slater in the 1880s. It is a lovely Victorian home replete with Empire style mansard roof and dormer windows. It was home to Judge Michael A. Murphy who lived there in the 1890s and later became the home of Frank E. Murphy, who worked for the Virginia and Truckee Railroad in the 1920s. It has generally evolved over time to become a survivor of the past.

For over 40 years, Adele's restaurant (recently called "Cafe at Adele's"), the ultimate community hot spot, has occupied the building. It has been a "go to" place where history has been made through political meetings, fundraising events, and the celebration of milestones. Over time, additions were placed on the north, south, and west sides of the original historic home. A fire in March 2019 caused the closure of the restaurant.

The Carson City Historical Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded in 1969 as the Nevada Landmarks Society. The group came together to save the Foreman-Roberts House from demolition. In 1874, the Foreman-Roberts House was relocated from Old Washoe City and placed at 1207 North Carson Street, Carson City, where it still stands. In 1969, the Society and community came together to successfully stop the demolition of this historic building. The Society has preserved the building, and maintains a museum in the house.

According to Jeff Loflin, President of the Society, "So many of our historic buildings have been demolished over the years - the Virginia and Truckee engine house, Nevada Orphans Home, Central School (north of the Brewery Arts Center), Odd Fellows Hall (across from the Blasdel Building) and others. The Carson City Historical Society hopes to save Adele's through community donations to this preservation fund. Please help us save this once beautiful home for our future generations."

According to the Society, should Adele's not be saved, funds raised will be earmarked for future preservation or historic projects in Carson City. The Society is proud of its success in working with the community in saving the Foreman-Roberts House, and looks forward to success again in working with the community to save the Adele's building.

For further information, contact Jeff Loflin at (775) 450-7114.

Dues for 2020 are due in January

CCHS works on a fiscal year beginning January 1 and ending December 31. Dues for 2020 are $25 for single membership (1 vote) and $35 for a family membership (2 votes). Dues are due in January of each year. You may support us at additional levels of giving.

Levels of membership:

• Individual member $25
• Family (couple) membership -- $35
• Patron or "Golden Anniversary Supporter" -- $50 to $99
• Historian -- $100 to $249
• Curator -- $250 to $499
• Preservationist -- $500 to $999
• Curry -- $1000 to $4999
• Founder -- $5000 or more

Annual dues can be mailed to CC Historical Society, 112 N. Curry St., Carson City, NV 89703. A membership form is available at http://cchistorical.org/CCHS_Membership_form.pdf.

The Carson City Historical Society is a Nevada nonprofit organizations.

January 2020 Newsletter is Available Online

The January CCHS Newsletter is available online. If you are not on our email list, please email your request to be added to carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

To download the January Newsletter, please CLICK HERE.

Support the "Save Adele's" Project
Update posted: Jan. 8, 2020

The "Save Adele's" effort has raised $3645 as of Jan. 8 through the GoFundMe campaign. That is in addition to amounts directly deposited in the Carson City Historical Society's special line item for this effort.

We have been getting some media attention for this effort. KOLO TV, for example, has covered this issue. Click here to see their Dec. 27, 2019, coverage of the issue. An earlier news piece (Dec. 16) concerning the possible expansion of the neighboring gas station into the Adele's property can be found by clicking here.

Community donations towards this effort can be made through the GoFundMe site: CCHISTORICALSOCIETYSAVEADELE'S or send checks earmarked: SAVEADELE'S and made out to the Carson City Historical Society.

Please Help Save Adele's - An Update
from the Carson City Historical Society
Media release: Monday, Jan. 20, 2020

Please help save Adele's building in Carson City, Nevada. There was great pride in our city when the Captain Porter's House (now Adele's) was first built. A quote from the newspaper is as follows:

From the Carson Daily Appeal, May 18, 1874: "A dwelling is being built by Captain Porter of the V & T workshops. Fronts on Carson St., of moderate size, but will be a handsome house. Has a French or Mansard roofÑthe first of its kind in Carson. Will be a decided ornament to the north and should like to see more of the same kind going up."

The Carson City Historical Society would like to extend a great big "Thank You" to everyone who has contributed to the #SaveAdeles fund. To date the contributions total close to $7,000 with more on the way. Please help preserve the almost 150 year old Adele's building currently located at 1112 North Carson Street, Carson City, Nevada. Much of Carson's history has been destroyed over the years. Preservation of what is left of our history, our history of Nevada and Carson City for future generations is in jeopardy.

Community donations towards this effort can made through the https://www.gofundme.com/f/cchistoricalsociety-Save-Adeles. Checks sent should be earmarked: SAVEADELE'S, made out to the "Carson City Historical Society" and mailed to the Carson City Historical Society, 112 North Curry Street, Carson City, NV 89703. The Board's intent is to make funds available to a future building owner in exchange for a commitment to the preservation of the historical portion of the building. Jacksons Food Stores Inc., who recently received permission to expand onto the site, has offered the building for free to anyone who would like to move it by March 1, 2020. The Society looks forward to working with Jacksons Food Stores, Inc. and the future building owner to ensure the building is preserved. The goal set for SAVEADELE'S fundraising campaign is $100,000.

The Carson City Historical Society is a volunteer membership whose activities are fundraising, volunteerism, education and cooperation with other entities. The Carson City Historical Society, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, was founded in 1969 as the Nevada Landmarks Society. The group came together to save the Foreman-Roberts House from demolition.

As "curators of local history," we hope to encourage new members to join the Society to make the voice of the non-profit stronger and to assist in preservation efforts. If you would like to come to a of the Carson City Historical Society, we welcome the public. If you would like to join the Society, please see our website link for an application to join at CCHistorical.org. An application form can be downloaded at http://cchistorical.org/CCHS_Membership_form.pdf.

According to the Society, should Adele's not be saved, funds raised will be earmarked for future preservation or historic projects in Carson City. The Society is proud of its success in working with the community in saving the Foreman Roberts House, and looks forward to success again in working with the community to save the Adele's building.

For over 40 years, Adele's restaurant, the ultimate community hot spot, has occupied the building. It has been a "go to" place where history has been made through political meetings, fundraising events and the celebration of milestones. Over time, additions were placed on the north, south, and west sides of the original historic home. A fire in March 2019 caused the closure of the restaurant.

Three Open Houses Scheduled for Early 2020
Sun., January 26, 2020
Sun., February 23, 2020
Sun., March 29, 2020

The Carson City Historical Society has scheduled three Open Houses for the beginning of this year. Here is your opportunity to tour the Foreman-Roberts House and check out the historical displays in the adjoining Carriage House. The dates are January 26 (2:00 to 5:00 p.m.), February 23 (2:00 to 5:00 p.m.), and March 29 (2:00 to 5:00 p.m.).

Mark your calendars now to you don't miss the fun.

Carson City Historical Society
Presents Second Open House of 2020
Sunday, February 23, 2020

The Carson City Historical Society will be holding an "Open House" at the Foreman-Roberts House (the Yellow House), 1207 North Carson Street, Carson City, Nevada, on Sunday, February 23, 2020, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. The Foreman-Roberts House and the Carriage House will both be open for tours. Come and hear about the highlights of Carson City history.

Tours and admission are free. No reservations are required. Sponsored by the members of the Carson City Historical Society. Hope to see you there!

The next Open House after this one is scheduled for Sunday, March 22, 2020.

(Note: This message was superceded by a message dated 5/20/2020)
March 29, 2020, Open House Cancelled
Three More Open Houses Scheduled for 2020:
Sun., April 26, 2020
Sun., May 24, 2020
Sun., June 28, 2020

Because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Open House scheduled for March 29 has been cancelled.

However, the Carson City Historical Society has tentatively scheduled three other Open Houses. Here is your opportunity to tour the Foreman-Roberts House and check out the historical displays in the adjoining Carriage House. The dates are April 26 (2:00 to 5:00 p.m.), May 24 (2:00 to 5:00 p.m.), and June 28 (2:00 to 5:00 p.m.).

Mark your calendars now to you don't miss the fun.

A Message from CCHS Pres. Jeff Loflin
Saturday, March 7, 2020

Fellow Carsonites!

There was some misinformation in an unofficial communication that went out. My apologies.

After coming together as a community and raising over $20,000, Jackson Foods Inc., who now owns the property and the building, was not able to find an interested party to remove the building. Jackson's Food Inc. was fully supportive of the preservation efforts. They extended the demolition deadline 30 days and worked diligently with a potential candidate and the Society but they were not able to address all the issues in a timely manner.

I'd like to sincerely thank everyone that supported this project including: Jackson's Foods, local businesses, Community Leaders, and most importantly, the residents of Carson City.

The donated funds will be kept in a separate account and used by the Carson City Historical Society for the preservation of historic buildings in Carson City. If you have questions regarding donations, please contact us at Carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

Thank you again for all of the Community Support!

Sincerely,
Jeff Loflin
President - Carson City Historical Society

March 29 and April 26, 2020, Open Houses Canceled

Because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Open Houses scheduled for March 29 and April 26 have been cancelled. However, the Carson City Historical Society may schedule other Open Houses once restrictions, due to the coronavirus situation, have been lifted. Prior to the situation, tours of the Foreman-Roberts House and the opportunity to check out the historical displays in the adjoining Carriage House were planned for the last Sunday of several months from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.

No future Open House are scheduled at this time.
(Notice posted 5/10/2020.)

April 2020 Newsletter is Available Online

The April CCHS Newsletter is available online. Perhaps you have already received it in your email inbox. If you are not on our email list, please email your request to be added to carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

To download the February Newsletter, please CLICK HERE.

Message from Pres. Jeff Loflin
Late April 2020

Happy Spring, CCHS Members,

Well wishes coming to you from all of us! As we hunker down, I would like to encourage everyone to take this as an opportunity to brush up on your Carson City History. "Lost Carson City" by Peter Mires brings some of the lesser known stories of people, buildings, and events back to life. "Haunted Carson City" by Janet Jones visits the macabre side of Carson. For more in depth local history, Bonnie Boice Nishikawa's, "My Life as an Orphan, Nevada State Children's Home" (see photo at right) is a personal account of life in Carson City with some great photos. A must have for every Carson resident is the photo essay of Carson City, "Images of America - Early Carson City" by our 1st VP Sue Ballew and L. Trent Dolan. I love looking at these images and the history behind them.

If you need to get out and stretch your legs while practicing social distancing, avoid the busy parks and trails by visiting some of our lesser known cemeteries. There are some prominent, famous people buried in Lone Mountain but what about Empire City, Pioneer, Nevada State Prison, Stewart Indian School, and the Ormsby County Poor Farm cemeteries. They all have great stories behind them and our history within them. "Images of America - Cemeteries of Carson City and Carson Valley" by Cindy Southerland is a great resource to take along with you.

We don't have any idea of when we will get back to normal operations. Keep checking the website and our Facebook for information.

Hope to see you soon!
Jeff Loflin
President Ð Carson City

Foreman-Roberts House Getting New Paint
Tuesday, May 12, 2020

The Foreman-Roberts House is getting painted on the outside. The building was moved from Washoe Valley to Carson City in the 1870s. The Carson City Historical Society is in charge of the house, but it actually belongs to Carson City. Under the lease agreement with the City, the maintenance of the interior is generally the responsibility of the the Historical Society, but the maintenance of the exterior (outside painting, roof, etc.) and some inside facilities (heating, AC, etc.) is the City's responsibility.

In these pictures you can see the exterior of the building being prepared for painting by Danny from Tru-Coverage Painting, which is under contract with the City. We, at the Historical Society, appreciate the cooperation of the City in helping to maintain this historical structure. Thurman Roberts willed the property to the children of Nevada, and it became the property of Carson City (then Ormsby County). The Carson City Historical Society was founded in 1969 as the Nevada Landmarks Society, and its first main project was to keep the Foreman-Roberts House from the wrecking ball and to restore it to its place of dignity in the community.

CCHS Remembers Last Founding Member, Ron Machado
Posted: June 16, 2020

The CCHS Board is sad to report the death of Ronald George Machado (Aug. 2, 1939 - May 27, 2020), the last founding member the Nevada Landmarks Society, which later became the Carson City Historical Society. The following is from the obituary published in the Nevada Appeal on June 13, 2020.

Ron was born in San Francisco, California and was adopted by Manuel and Beatrice Machado. Because of Ron's poor health, his family moved to Los Gatos, California, where he later attended grammar school. When he was in the 3rd grade his teacher's name was Miss Wesson and she took him "Under her wings" because he was shy. She is now Dr. Betty Peck, living in Campbell, California. They always stayed in touch, and Ron visited her as often as possible.

Ron is survived by longtime friend Doug Schuster of Reno, Nevada. Early in Ron's life he traveled with a female evangelist and played piano at her meetings. In more recent years he played piano in a couple of establishments in Virginia City. Ron first came to Carson City with his parents in 1946 and stayed at the Arlington Hotel for $5 a night. He was thrilled to see the V&T Railroad traveling through Washoe Valley on its way to Reno.

At the age of 14 he became interested in the history of old houses, particularly those in Carson City. In 1962 he became curator of the Rinckle Mansion and gave tours of the home at 50 cents per person. The home was still completely furnished with all the original furniture, paintings, etc. He loved telling stories of its history until the family sold the mansion. He knew most of the people living in Carson City and talked to all he could when he was a dishwasher at night at the Dutch Mill Restaurant, the local gathering place (now Heidi's). Ron ran a gentleman's boarding house in the Chartz House in the '70s and owned the building that is currently the Purple Avocado.

He was a local historian with so many facts and stories to tell. He was also the last remaining founder of the former Landmark Society which is now the Carson City Historical Society whose charter is the preservation of the Foreman-Roberts House.

He will be missed, and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Pictured: Ron, at right, at 50th anniversary event for CCHS on Sept. 21, 2019.

Memorial Service for Ron Machado on Zoom
Saturday, October 10, 2020

The Carson City Historical Society will be hosting a Zoom Memorial for Ron Machado Saturday, October 10, 2020, at 11:00 am. Ron passed away on May 27, 2020. If you have questions, please email the Society at Carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com. For those who would like to participate, click on the Zoom link [removed]. If you have questions about how to participate over Zoom, call David Bugli at 775-883-4154. People who need additional assistance are encouraged to join the Zoom meeting 10-15 minutes early.

Ron was the last founding member the Nevada Landmarks Society, which later became the Carson City Historical Society.

December 2020 Newsletter is Available Online

The December CCHS Newsletter is available online. Perhaps you have already received it in your email inbox. If you are not on our email list, please email your request to be added to carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

To download the December Newsletter, please CLICK HERE.

A Message from Acting President, Sue Ballew
Dec. 27, 2020

Greetings and Happy Holidays! The year 2020 has been crazy. Almost every meeting and event in 2020 has been cancelled or Zoomed. Who knew the Coronavirus would create such havoc and uncertainty in our lives, and change the way we do business. The Carson City Historical Society has been keeping busy behind the scenes looking into various ways to work with our members on Zoom and other media sources. We will have some Zoom meetings coming up as history lectures and Board meetings. My phone number is (775) 220-6278 or e-mail me carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com if you have issues meeting via Zoom. If you call, please leave a message with your name and phone number, and I'll call you back.

Meanwhile, stay safe. Sue Ballew

Exhibit: "The Petticoat Connection -
Notable Women of Eagle Valley"
Information provided 12/27/2020

A new exhibit is in the works called, "The Petticoat Connection - Notable Women of Eagle Valley." Our exhibits chairperson, Kat Long, and Andrea Hobbs have been working on this display for many months along with many local artists. Each month one of the women in the exhibit will be featured in the newsletter. This month it is Clara Crisler.

Clara Crisler (1882-1957) was one of three children born to Minnie and William Crisler. Their house was at 702 Minnesota Street in Carson City, Nevada and is on the Kit Carson Trail tour today. Her father was an engineer, and her mother owned a millinery shop at 306 North Carson where Clara worked and was later employed as a clerk. She was a Carson City High School graduate and attended Chico State College in California. In 1923 President Harding appointed her Registrar of the United States Land Office in Carson City, Nevada. She held leadership positions in womenÕs clubs including the Nevada Federation of Women's Clubs. (Information is from 1999 Survey of Historic Properties in Carson City, www.Carson.org).

Clara was known as a Carson City educator and historian, and in 1915 she designed the second Nevada State Flag. Her design was an attempt at having a state flag more representative of Nevada. She used the State Seal as the main basis because it depicted a Nevada that embraced mining, industry, agriculture, and its history. The flag was beautiful but too expensive to reproduce. The printing of 27 or more colors on a flag was difficult and time-consuming. The flag had to be appliquéd, and painted by hand, and it was a two-sided flag making it very expensive to reproduce. (From nevadatrivia.com)

Clara also spent much of her life chronicling the history of Nevada through scrapbooks. They were donated to the Nevada Historical Society after her passing in 1957.

General Membership Meeting and Election of Officers
Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021

On January 7, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. we will have Election of Officers Via Zoom. The Carson City Historical Society intends to maintain the current officers for the 2021 calendar year. Here is the proposed slate of officers:

• Jeff Loflin, President
• Sue Ballew, 1st Vice President
• Travis Legaske, 2nd Vice President
• David Bugli, Secretary
• Kiyoshi Nishikawa, Treasurer
• Andi Fant, Membership
• Kat Long, Exhibits
• Donna McLaren, Facilities

On January 11, 2021, at 3:45 p.m. there will be a Carson City Historical Society Board Meeting via Zoom. Members may attend as guests.

Please let us know if you are interested in attending either of these meetings via Zoom, and we will share the appropriate links with you.

More than a Ghost Town: Cultural Resource Management
in the Phantom City of Rhyolite, Nevada
Jonah Blustain Lecture on Rhyolite
Thursday, January 21, 2021

NOTE: A video of this lecture is now available on the Carson City Historical Society's YouTube channel: Click HERE for the channel and click on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dc-P1L41ep4 to go directly to the video.

Jonah S. Blustain, BLM Assistant Field Manager, will present a lecture, "More than a Ghost Town: Cultural Resource Management in the Phantom City of Rhyolite, Nevada" on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom.

The ghost town of Rhyolite, Nevada, is one of the more challenging public resources to manage. The town was originally the site of a large gold strike in 1904. By 1907, the early tent city had become a veritable metropolis. Rhyolite had running water, municipal utilities, three railroads, and a swimming pool. The boom ended as soon as it began, aided by the 1907 financial panic. With no viable mines, Rhyolite soon became a ghost town. Located on public land adjacent to the town of Beatty and the main entrance to Death Valley National Park, Rhyolite receives approximately 250,000 visitors per year. The Bureau of Land Management is tasked with managing the town's historical values and recreational opportunities for future generations. This lecture will cover some of the site's current management challenges, the solutions developed by the BLM, and the ways the public can get involved in preserving a unique, irreplaceable resource.

The lecture is free and open to the public. For information about attending, contact David Bugli at 775-883-4154 or send an email to Dcbugli@aol.com and he will provide you with a meeting link (or a meeting ID with passcode).

Jonah Blustain earned a degree in Anthropology and Archaeology from Boston University before moving out west to Nevada. He received a master's degree in Anthropology from the University of Nevada, Reno, in which he developed an archaeological management plan for the remains of Nevada's Cold War-era uranium mining industry. Before moving into government service, he worked as a professional archaeologist contracting to Nevada's mining industry. As a mining archaeologist, Jonah worked on all aspects of mine permitting in contexts ranging from early Gold Rush prospecting camps to operating world-class mines. He currently serves in the U. S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management, as the Assistant Field Manager for Non-Renewable Resources, Tonopah Field Office, in Tonopah, Nevada.

Photo: The Cook Bank Building in Rhyolite. Photo credit: Tahoenathan

CCHS Presents Lecture: "The Cocktail and Alcohol Culture of Virginia City,"
Thursday, February 18, 2021

NOTE: A video of this lecture is now available on the Carson City Historical Society's YouTube channel: Click HERE for the channel and click on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewPEwcNVr5E to go directly to the video.

The Carson City Historical Society will present its second lecture of 2021, "The Cocktail and Alcohol Culture of Virginia City," on Thursday, February 18, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom. Garrett Barmore, curator of the W. M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum at the University of Nevada, Reno, will present this entertaining lecture. He will discuss the history of several alcoholic beverages and how they relate to daily life in Virginia City during the mining boom. Barmore, who will be demonstrating the making of these drinks, is an entertaining lecturer.

The lecture includes include 3 cocktail recipes and a bonus punch recipe, which can be downloaded prior to the lecture by clicking HERE. Attendees may wish to acquire the ingredients ahead of time and try their hand at making one or more of the drinks. Some of the more obscure ingredients, such as pineapple gum syrup, are available at Total Wine and other liquor stores.

The February 18 lecture is free and open to the public. For information about attending via Zoom, contact David Bugli at 775-883-4154 or send an email to Dcbugli@aol.com and he will provide you with a meeting link (or a meeting ID with passcode).

You can see Barmore's explorations of the earth sciences on his "Mineral Monday" series at https://www.unr.edu/mackay/keck-museum/mineral-monday. Barmore received his Master's Degree in Museology from the University of Washington and specializes in professionalizing small museums. Garrett is very interested in Nevada mining history and has worked as a historical archaeologist in Nevada.

Photo: Garrett Barmore in the Keck Museum

"Notable Women of Eagle Valley" Exhibits opening
Saturday, March 20, 2021

On Saturday, March 20, 2021, CCHS will have a new exhibit opening at the Roberts House Carriage House called "Notable Women of Eagle Valley." According to Acting President, Sue Ballew, "It is beautiful."

We will have a soft opening of the exhibit Saturday, March 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. and continue opening on each Saturday thereafter in the Carriage House. Attendees are asked to please wear a mask.

Our exhibits chairperson Kat Long and Andrea Hobbs have been working on this display for many months along with many local artists. Each month one of the women in the exhibit will be featured in the CCHS newsletter.

Planned Open House and "Notable Women" display cancelled for April 3rd
Posted: Wednesday, March 31, 2021

The Carson City Historical Society Open House and display of the "Notable Women of Eagle Valley" exhibit in the Carriage House has been cancelled for Saturday, April 3, 2021. The Society plans to resume opening of the exhibit on Saturdays beginning April 10. The exhibit contains information about eight remarkable women of the Eagle Valley (Carson City) area who made significant contributions to the Carson City area. Their stories are accompanied by portraits of them, created for the exhibit by five local artists.

"Notable Women of Eagle Valley" exhibit featured Saturday at
Carson City Historical Society's Carriage House
Saturday, May 1, 2021

The Carson City Historical Society will open the doors for their newest exhibit, "Notable Women of Eagle Valley," Saturday, May 1, 2021, from 1 to 3 p.m. in their Carriage House, 1207 North Carson Street, Carson City.

The Carriage House is directly behind the Foreman-Roberts House. The Exhibit is free and open to the public. Please wear a mask. If you have questions please email us at Carsoncityhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

The exhibit contains information about eight remarkable women of the Eagle Valley (Carson City) area who made significant contributions to the Carson City area. Their stories are accompanied by portraits of them, created for the exhibit by five local artists.

Catered Picnic and Chautauqua Coming
Sunday, June 27, 2021

The CCHS will be having a catered picnic Sunday, June 27, 2021, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Roberts House Park and Carriage House. Chatauquan Kim Harris will portray the beautiful Laura Fair, the first woman in California sentenced to hang for the murder of her lover.

Performing as a Chautauquan for over 10 years via her business, "Western History ALIVE!" Kim Harris regularly portrays several local and national historic figures which include Pony Express rider Warren Upson, stagecoach driver Charley Parkhurst, Genoa and Nevada suffragist Lillian Virgin Finnegan, frontierswoman Calamity Jane, and acquitted axe murderess Lizzie Borden. Unlike a character actor or actress simply reciting a script, Chautauquans are essentially historians who research their chosen character's life, write a monologue to perform the character, endlessly rehearse their presentation and then present the character to a live audience. All the while they stay in character until the very end when questions can be answered by the historians themselves.

Reservations opened June 1, and only 25 slots are available! For reservations, call Paula at (775)887-8865, or Noni at (908)415-4820. The picnic includes a box lunch from KFC in the park, water, the Chautauqua in the Carriage House, a tea cup plant sale, business meeting, and a 50/50 raffle.

Photograph of Kim Harris in costume, dressed as Libbie Custer, another of the famous individuals Ms. Harris portrays.

CW Presents Lecture on "The Strychnine Banjo"
Thursday, July 15, 2021

CW Bayer will present a lecture on Thursday, July 15, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom. A history fundamental to understanding the gold rush, western culture and American music, in his talk, "The Strychnine Banjo," CW Bayer summarizes the long-lost story of the most important mining song written in the far West during the 19th century - "The Days of '49." Composed as a parody for a burlesque in Virginia City, Nevada, during 1868 by banjoist Charley Rhoades, "The Days of '49" became the anthem of the "pioneers" - the '49ers as they aged through the remainder of the 19th century. The talk is based on original research by CW and his book, The Strychnine Banjo. The talk provides a great opportunity to hear the outlines of the history and then discuss it with the author.

CW Bayer can sometimes be heard playing music locally with The Honky Tonk Bums. He has researched and written several books about Nevada history. These include: Dreaming Up Nevada Territory, the story of Major William Ormsby, The Strychnine Banjo, Charley Rhoades, Jake Wallace and The Days of 49, and Reno's Jazz Hysteria - cabaret and ballroom. His most recent history book is Flying Without Instruction. All can be found at nevadamusic.com.

The lecture is free and open to the public. For information about attending, send an email to Dcbugli@aol.com or contact David Bugli at 775-883-4154 and he will provide you with a meeting link (or a meeting ID with passcode).

A Message from Sue Ballew, President,
Concerning Open House: Foreman Robers House and Carriage House
Media release: July 18, 2021

The beautiful gothic style Foreman-Roberts House, 1207 North Carson Street (yellow house), Carson City, Nevada, will be open to the public Sunday, July 25, 2021, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Docents will tell the story of the Roberts family and their connection to the seeress Eilley Bowers, how the house came to Carson City in 1874, facts about the family and the famous spiritualist of the home.

The Carriage House will also be open 1:00 to 3:00 pm. The current exhibit is "Notable Women of Eagle Valley." Original portraits of women that tell highlights of their lives are on display. Noted local artists have used their talent to render images of these "Notable" women.

Both the Foreman-Roberts House and the Carriage House will be open. The Open House is free and open to the public. Donations are accepted. Masks are optional.

Foreman-Roberts House Grand Reopening
Sunday, July 25, 2021

Carson City Historical Society will be having a Grand Reopening of the Foreman-Roberts House Museum on Sunday, July 25, 2021, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. This is a free event. Our volunteers have been working on updating the displays in the Foreman-Roberts House since the fires in the building in August of 2016. This is your opportunity to get familiar with some of Carson City history. Details are pending.

This structure is a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture. In 1873 it was moved to Carson City. James Doane Roberts was co-owner of the Roberts and Corbett's Saloon (across the street from the V&T depot). Hattie was the granddaughter of Calvin Hale, founder of the Hale and Norcross mine in Virginia City. Hattie, a direct descendent of American patriot Nathan Hale, was a former employee of the State of Nevada. Thurman Roberts willed the property to the children of Nevada, and it became the property of Carson City (then Ormsby County). The Public Works Department planned to raze it to form a small park. The outcry of the citizenry brought about the creation of the Nevada Landmark's Society which enlisted the aid of the local citizens to save it. (On August 20, 2002, Nevada Landmarks became the Carson City Historical Society.) The City Council agreed to a year's extension to restore and stabilize the structure. A stone foundation was installed with the aid of anyone who was interested, including state prison inmates. Others turned out to paint and refurbish the house, with many thousands of hours of volunteer services and dollars expended.

CCHS to Host Artist Ronnie Rector during Open Studios Tour
Aug. 21 and 22, 2021

The Carson City Historical Society is hosting artist Ronnie Rector during the Third Annual Open Studios Tour on Saturday and Sunday, August 21 and 22, 2021. The CCHS Carriage house is one of 11 stops on the tour, which will be on-going from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. both days. The event is free, and information about the tour is available at https://jazzcarsoncity.com/arttour2021. The tour is part of the Jazz & Beyond Music & Art Festival (Aug. 13-29, 2021).

Ronnie Rector painted portraits for two of the "Women of Eagle Valley" women. The exhibit is still up in the Carriage House, and she will be there with her other paintings and will do a demonstration. Her "Strawberries & Mint" painting is shown here. The Carriage House will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be music by Mylo McCormick from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days.

The Foreman-Roberts House will be open those two days from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for tours. There is no cost for these events. Donations are accepted at the Foreman-Roberts House. COVID restrictions apply. Please wear a mask.