Discover the Eight Oldest Cities in Nevada

Nevada is home to several historic cities and towns that date back to the mid-19th century, a time when the state was at the forefront of the Westward expansion of the United States. Cities and towns, such as Virginia City, Carson City, and Genoa, played important roles in the growth of the Western United States. While Nevada’s history may not be as ancient as some other places, it still offers a glimpse into the development of the American West.

From the discovery of silver in Virginia City to the building of the Hoover Dam, Nevada has played an important role in the country’s history. Today, the oldest cities in Nevada remain vibrant and delightful places that attract visitors from around the world who come to experience their rich history and frontier charm. Keep reading to discover the eight oldest cities in Nevada!

Nevada

Nevada is located in the Western United States. It became the 36th state to join the Union on October 31, 1864. Prior to becoming a state, Nevada was a part of the Utah Territory, and later the Nevada Territory. In the mid-19th century, Nevada was largely undeveloped and sparsely populated. The discovery of gold in 1849, followed by silver in the mid-1850s brought an influx of settlers to the region. Mining became the dominant industry in the state. The Comstock Lode, a rich deposit of silver ore, was discovered in 1859 near Virginia City. This discovery led to a massive mining boom in the area. The mining industry in Nevada attracted people from all over the world, including prospectors, miners, and merchants. Many people came to the state seeking their fortunes, and the population grew rapidly.

The Original People

While the discovery of silver brought economic growth to the region, it also brought significant environmental destruction and social conflict. There was great friction between Native Americans and colonizers in Nevada. Many Native American tribes were forcibly removed from their land and relocated to reservations, leading to significant loss of life and cultural upheaval.

As we explore the oldest cities in Nevada it is imperative that we remember that the towns and places we will be learning about are often associated with the mistreatment and subjugation of Native Americans. From forced removals to reservations and boarding schools to a loss of dignity and culture, indigenous people have faced countless injustices. By acknowledging our history, we can begin to understand the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by Native Americans and work toward a more just and equitable future for all.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Genoa, 1851

Genoa is the oldest permanent settlement in Nevada. It was founded in 1851 by Mormon pioneers as a trading post and a resting stop for travelers on their way to California. Genoa is located in Douglas County, Nevada, in the Western part of the state. It is situated in the scenic Carson Valley, at an elevation of 4,700 feet (1,433 meters) above sea level. It is surrounded by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountain range. Today, it is a charming historic town with a population of around 1,000 people, known for its picturesque Main Street lined with old-fashioned wooden buildings, many of which have been converted into shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Some of the most popular attractions in Genoa include the Genoa Bar and Saloon, which bills itself as Nevada’s oldest thirst parlor. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The Genoa Courthouse Museum houses an exhibit on the town’s history and the early settlers of the Carson Valley. Mormon Station State Historic Park, commemorates the site of the original trading post and includes a museum, a replica of the original fort, and picnic areas.
Genoa is also famous for its annual events, including the Genoa Candy Dance Arts & Crafts Faire, held every September, which features live music, dancing, and more than 300 arts and crafts vendors selling handmade goods. The Genoa Western Heritage Days festival, held every spring, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the American West through poetry, music, and storytelling.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Carson City, 1858

Carson City is the capital city of Nevada, located in the Western part of the state. Carson City sits at the Eastern edge of the Carson Range of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. As of 2021, the population of Carson City was almost 59,000 people, making it one of the smaller state capitals in the United States.
Carson City was founded in 1858 as a mining town during the California Gold Rush and was named after the famous frontiersman Kit Carson. Today, it is known for its historic charm, outdoor recreation opportunities, and its role as the center of state government.

Some of the popular attractions in Carson City include the Nevada State Capitol Building, which houses the offices of the governor and the legislature, as well as a museum that features exhibits on Nevada’s history and culture. The Nevada State Museum, located in the same complex as the Capitol, showcases the state’s natural and cultural history, including exhibits on mining, geology, and the state’s Native American heritage.
Another popular attraction is the Nevada State Railroad Museum, which features historic locomotives, rolling stock, and artifacts from Nevada’s railroading past. For outdoor enthusiasts, Carson City offers a range of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing in nearby Lake Tahoe.
Carson City is also known for its annual events, the Nevada Day Parade and Festival, held every October to celebrate the state’s admission to the Union.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Virginia City, 1859

Virginia City, Nevada is a historic town located in the Western part of the state, not far from Reno. It was founded in 1859 following the discovery of the Comstock Lode, one of the largest silver strikes in history. At its peak in the 1860s, Virginia City was home to more than 30,000 people and was one of the most important mining communities in the American West. As of 2020 661 folks call Virginia City home.
Today, Virginia City is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into the history of the American West. Some of its historic buildings and landmarks include the Fourth Ward School Museum and Piper’s Opera House. Take a trip back in time on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. Visitors can take guided tours of the town and explore the many antique shops and restaurants that line its streets.
In addition to its rich mining history, Virginia City is also known for its role in the development of Nevada as a state. It served as the territorial capital from 1861 to 1864 and was the site of the 1864 constitutional convention that led to Nevada’s admission to the Union as the 36th state.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Austin, 1862

Austin is a small town located in central Nevada, in Lander County. It has a population of 101 full-time residents as of 2020. Austin is situated along the historic Pony Express route and the Loneliest Road in America, also known as Highway 50. Austin was founded in 1862 as a mining town during the Nevada silver rush and quickly became a bustling center of commerce and industry. Today, it is known for its rich history, picturesque scenery, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
One of the main attractions in Austin is the Stokes Castle, a three-story stone tower that was built in the early 1890s by mining magnate Anson Phelps Stokes as a summer home. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Another popular attraction is the International Hotel. Opened in 1863, it is one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in the state. The hotel has a colorful history and has hosted a variety of famous guests, including Mark Twain and President Ulysses S. Grant.
Outdoorswomen and men will find plenty to do in and around Austin, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting in nearby mountain ranges and wilderness areas. The town is also home to the Gridley Days Cowboy Contest and Rodeo.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Eureka, 1864

Eureka is a small town of 411 people as of 2020. Eureka was founded in 1864 as a mining town during the Comstock Lode boom and quickly became one of the largest and most prosperous cities in the state. Today, it is known for its well-preserved historic district, which includes dozens of 19th-century buildings and structures, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Some of the popular attractions in Eureka include the Eureka Opera House, which was built in 1880 and restored in the 1990s. It now serves as a performing arts center and museum. The Eureka Sentinel Museum features exhibits on the town’s history and the local newspaper. The Jackson House Hotel, the oldest hotel in Eureka, has been in operation since the 1870s. The Eureka County Fair, held every August, features livestock exhibits, rodeo competitions, and carnival rides. The Eureka Art and Wine Festival, held in September, features ghost tours, movie nights, and art classes. While Eureka’s population has declined since its mining heyday, the town continues to attract visitors who are interested in its rich history and quaint charm.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Pioche, 1864

Pioche is a small town in Eastern Nevada, located in Lincoln County. It has a population of around 1,435 residents (2020) and is known for its historic architecture and mining heritage.
Pioche was first settled in 1864 as a silver mining town. It quickly became one of the largest and most prosperous cities in the state. Today, it is known for its well-preserved historic district, which features dozens of 19th-century buildings and structures.
Popular attractions in Pioche include the Million Dollar Courthouse, which was built in the1872 and was once the most expensive courthouse in the United States. Boot Hill Cemetery, the final resting place of many of the town’s early residents and miners, is another fascinating attraction
Pioche is also known for its annual events, including the Labor Day Celebration, which features a parade, live music, bake sale, craft fair, golf tournament, softball tournament, and street dance. The Pioche Silver State Classic Challenge is a high-speed car race held on nearby highways.
The town is located near several national forests and wilderness areas, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. The nearby Echo Canyon State Park is also a popular spot for boating and water sports.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Reno, 1868

Reno is a city in Western Nevada, located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and along the Truckee River. Reno was officially established as a town in 1868, although there were settlements in the area as early as the 1850s. The town was named after Union Major General Jesse L. Reno, who was killed in the American Civil War. Reno grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to its mining and railroad industries, and it eventually became a major center for gaming and entertainment in the mid-20th century. It is the fourth-largest city in the state, with a population of around 250,000 people. Reno bills itself as The Biggest Little City in the World.
Reno is known for its lively casinos and entertainment industry, which attract visitors from all over the world. Some of the most popular casinos include the Eldorado Resort Casino, the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino, and the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa.

Attractions and Annual Events

In addition to its casinos, Reno offers a range of other attractions and activities. The city is home to the National Automobile Museum, which features more than 200 vintage cars and other automobiles. The Nevada Museum of Art showcases contemporary and traditional art from around the world. Reno also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Great Reno Balloon Race, the Reno Rodeo, and the Reno River Festival.
The Truckee River, which runs through the heart of Reno, is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports. Reno is just a short drive from Lake Tahoe, which offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Elko, 1869

Elko is a city in Northeastern Nevada, located in Elko County. Elko was founded in 1869. The town grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, fueled by the discovery of gold and other minerals in the surrounding area. Today, Elko is a thriving city that serves as a hub for business, culture, and outdoor recreation in Northeastern Nevada. It has a population of approximately 20,000 people (2021) and is the largest city in the region. The city is situated along the Humboldt River and is surrounded by the Ruby Mountains and the Great Basin Desert.
Elko is known for its mining heritage and Western culture, which is celebrated at events such as the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering and the National Basque Festival. The city is also home to several casinos and hotels, which attract visitors from around the world.
One of the main attractions in Elko is the California Trail Interpretive Center, which tells the story of the pioneers who traveled the California Trail in the mid-19th century. The center offers exhibits, interactive displays, and hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the trail firsthand.
Other popular attractions in Elko include the Northeastern Nevada Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the region, and the Western Folklife Center, which showcases traditional Western music, poetry, and storytelling.
If nature’s your thing, you will find plenty to do in and around Elko, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping in the nearby Ruby Mountains and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The city is also located along the Great Basin Trail, which offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Nevada’s Oldest Cities: Honorable Mentions

As nearly a decade passed between the founding of Elko in 1869 and the founding of Ely in 1878, Elko seemed like a clear-cut jumping-off point. However, we at a-z-animals dot com would like to extend honorable mentions to:

• Ely, Nevada,1878: Ely is also located along the historic Pony Express route and the Loneliest Road in America, also known as Highway 50.
• Mesquite, Nevada, 1880: Today, Mesquite is home to several hotels, casinos, and golf courses.
• Fallon, Nevada, 1896: Fallon was founded in the late 19th century as a stop on the Carson and Colorado Railroad, and it quickly became an important center for agriculture in the region. Today, it is home to several farms and ranches, as well as the Fallon Naval Air Station, which is a major employer in the area.
• Pahrump, Nevada, 1898: In recent decades Pahrump has grown rapidly, becoming a popular destination for retirees.
• Tonopah, Nevada, 1900: Tonopah was founded at the dawn of the 20th century as a mining town. It quickly became one of the largest and most important silver mining communities in the region.

Summary of the Seven Oldest Cities in Nevada: