Washoe County, Nevada - The whole text, 1888 (part 2 of 3)

Pyramid Lake

The beautiful Pyramid Lake, discovered by Lieutenant John C. Fremont on the 10th of January, 1844, lies in the southern part of Roop County. In Fremont's " Explorations " he gives the following:

''Beyond, a defile between the mountains descended rapidly about 2,000 feet, and filling up all the lower space was a sheet of green water some twenty miles broad. It broke upon our eyes like the ocean. The neighboring peaks rose high above us, and we ascended one of them to obtain a better view. The waves were curling in the breeze, and their dark green color showed it to be a body of deep water. For a long time we sat enjoying the view, for we had become fatigued with mountains, and the free expanse of moving waves was very grateful. It was set like a gem in the mountains, which, from our position, seemed to inclose it almost entirely. We encamped on the shore opposite a very remarkable rock in the lake, which had attracted our attention for many miles. It rose, according to our estimate, 600 feet above the water and, from the point we viewed it, presented a pretty exact outline of the great pyramid of Cheops. This striking feature suggested a name for the lake, and I called it Pyramid Lake; and though it may be deemed by some a fanciful resemblance, I can undertake to say that the future travelers will find much more striking resemblance between this rock and the pyramids of Egypt than there is between them and the object from which they take their name. "

Pyramid Lake, at an altitude of 3,850 feet above sea-level, is the lowest surface within the county. The tops of the highest mountains bordering Pyramid Lake on the west are about 7, 100 feet above the sea, as determined by Perry Powers on his survey of the boundaries of Pyramid Lake Indian Reservation in 1887. Pyramid Lake is thirty miles long and twelve miles wide, lies wholly within the confines of the Pyramid Lake Indian Reservation, and is twenty-one miles from Wadsworth by good wagon road. It has considerable depth, and abounds in large trout of excellent flavor. The rock, rising six hundred feet above the surface of the water, and having a pyramid shape, is the home of a large band of wild goats, the hatchery of thousands of seagulls, pelicans and other water fowl; and last, but not least, the sporting place of innumerable rattlesnakes.

The lake receives a flow of pure cold water from the Truckee River, but as there is no visible outlet, the water is slightly brackish, and contains some mineral matter. In 1882 some professional men considered the feasibility of turning the flow of the Truckee into Winnemucca Lake, and thereby allow the water of Pyramid Lake to evaporate, in order to obtain soda and borax. The water contains about one-fourth of 1 per cent, borax and 1 per cent, soda; or, one pound of borax and four pounds of soda to 400 barrels of water. The scheme proved to be an air bubble.

In its setting of rough, ragged and precipitous mountains, whose sides are chased by winding streams from crystal springs, bordered at the base by cliff and crag and cavern of old coral, it is an emerald gem, diamond-encrusted by waterfowl of snow-white plumage, having its beauty enhanced a thousandfold by the picturesque pyramidal rock near its center. When the wind blows, the waves rolling to the shore are lashed to foam, and give the roar of the sea. When a storm is on the lake it is unsurpassingly beautiful, and when R. L. Fulton wrote a description of the lake for the San Francisco "Bulletin," some Eastern papers remarked that a demented fool out West had found a prettier, lake than Tahoe. We concur with Mr. Fulton, and his taste is that of others who have visited this sheet of water.

Winnemucca Lake

Lying parallel to Pyramid Lake, and a little to the east of it, is Winnemucca Lake, the largest body of water in the State, extending north and south sixty miles and north and south twelve miles. With Pyramid Lake it shares the water of the Truckee River. The surrounding mountains are low and regular, yet their geology is interesting, and their sides are used as stock ranges. Winnemucca Lake is the home of the silver trout, a fish not to be excelled the world oyer for beauty. When taken out of the water he looks like the highest perfection of the silversmith's art, Winnemucca Lake will one day be a famous resort, as the piscatorial sport to be had here cannot be beaten. Felix McCormack, the host here, took us out on the lake not long ago, and, with trout as bait, caught eighteen two-pound fish in ten minutes with a single line five feet in length. To understand this record the reader must remember that minnow is the regulation bait. McCormack has a fast team, plenty of fishing tackle and a dozen good boats.

To reach- Winnemucca Lake the traveler passes the Indian Reservation and the district of which Prof. W. C. Dovey writes in the first pages of this work. During our visit to McCormack's we observed the following: The lake lay before us as a vast mirror. To the southeast and west the blue dome of the sky was relieved by stretches of cirrus clouds - masses of fleecy whiteness, millions of balls of the snowiest cotton, which seemed too dainty, exquisite and frail to be placed at such a distance in the sky. To the north the clouds rolled over and over to the zenith, where they hung, seemingly suspended by some invisible force, and waiting to robe the maidens of our party in a bridal veil. At n o'clock the moon appeared above the horizon, and we took to the boats - moonlight on the lake. Fair Luna was so generous with her light that we could see the pelican flying overhead with lazy motion, the graceful gull seeking some undisturbed haven of rest, and the awkward mudhen splashing the water in its haste to evade the intruding boats. Returning to seek our couches, sweet song echoes accompanied us, and dismissed us with their benediction. In the cool morning we turned a bend at the mouth of the river, and the scene which lay before us beggars description. Waterfowl ot all kinds, seemingly millions in number, dotted the surface, and castle-like masses of tufa (or coral) towered a hundred feet above us. Here in groups a model "Giants' Causeway, " and there, solitary and grim in silent grandeur and sublimity, solemn sentinels of God's most magnificent handiwork.

Changes In The Lakes

The surface of Pyramid Lake is gradually lowering, while there is a corresponding rise in the waters of Winnemucca Lake. Stockmen and vaqueros say the change becomes very evident as they ride along the shores and see bluffs where a decade ago there was a gentle slope; and as they look at the pyramid in the center of the lake, it appears to present more volume above the tide level. Twenty-five years ago the rocks where the surf beat and left an undying mark, are to-day a mile from the water. The stakes to which the Indians tied their boats stand in regular line, one below another, and serve as marks of shoreline as the water receded year after year. Finally, at periods of about five years, the waves threw up sand, gravel and shells, which formed a kind of cement|that composes ridges in succession clear around the lake. Twenty-five years ago Winnemucca Lake nearly dried up, and became at best an immense lake of soft mud. During the time it was in this condition it was called Mud Lake, and by that name it is best known to-day. Near McCormack's place, at the mouth of the slough, one could easily ford twenty years ago; whereas, now at this point there is a width of ioo feet and a depth of 50 feet. Farther down the shore of this lake Andy Russell and other stockmen built a stone corral, * which is now twenty feet below the surface of the water. On the western shore was a piece of land containing about 500 acres of . meadow and salt grass, which is now all under water. The cause of this change of surface is the sawdust and other waste material which is dumped into the Truckee river by the sawmills, and carried along to the mouth of the river at the entrance of the lakes, where it is deposited and forms a bar. A quarter of a century ago such a dam formed and cut off" the water which went into Winnemucca Lake, and all the water flowed into Pyramid Lake. The result was that Pyramid Lake grew larger and larger, and Winnemucca Lake nearly dried up. The high water of Pyramid at last backed far enough to burst the barrier and restore Winnemucca Lake. What happened twenty-five years ago is happening to-day, only the inlet to Pyramid Lake is nearly closed, and it is growing smaller and smaller. If allowed to continue, it will dry up for a time within the next ten years, if the inlet is not cleared by artificial means. The Indians realize this, and are trying to prevent it by building a wing-dam.

Indian Reservation

To the north ot these lakes lies the Pyramid Lake Indian Reservation, of which Pyramid Lake is a part. It was set apart as a reservation in 1857, an d includes, the town of Wadsworth and the rich bottom lands of the Truckee from the Big Bend, now Wadsworth, to the mouth of the river, and all of Pyramid Lake. In i860 Major Dodge was appointed Indian Agent, and he posted notices defining the boundaries and warning all intruders to leave. In 1865, while Dodge was yet Agent, the boundary lines of the reservation were run by Eugene Munroe. The concluding act by which this land, comprising 320,- 000 acres, was given to the Piutes, was President

On the road from Wadsworth to the reservation there are some scenes which cannot be beaten for wildness and beauty. A point where Hub Parker had a dam constructed when he was Indian Agent is known as the "Red, White and Blue Rock." Here in the canyon, at a depth of 400 feet from the road, the water above and below the dam is without a ripple, and looks like sheets of silver, while in the center it dashes against the boulders, and is tossed up as foamy spray.

On the farther side, in a little niche, stands a small overshot wheel, which, with its lights and shadows, seems especially fitted there for effect. Rolling away from our feet are the rocks bearing the American colors, and they seem to tell us they mark the abode of liberty. Perhaps five miles farther we come to the avenue where commences the reservation proper. A fresh breeze from the lakes fans our face, and stirs the broad-spreading branches of mighty cottonwoods. The ground is covered with a luxuriant growth of high grass, and rustic fences of Indian manufacture stretch away in every direction. Further the willows bend from above, and the rippling waters flow around and seem to sigh for the cottonwood giant fallen prone in its embrace, but still beautiful in its symmetry and size. Now we see cultivated fields with fair altalfa crops and young orchards. A stable built of dried willow and cottonwood twigs, shows that the architect is above the average Piute, and later we learn it is Charley Winnemucca's work. Again, where but a few months before was a tule campoody, there stands a wellbuilt and neat log cabin, and near by a horse corral strong enough to hold any mustang. As we proceed toward the Agency buildings the valley broadens, and for some miles are fields of alfalfa, natural grass, grain, and gardens. Huge cottonwoods rear their heads above the winding river, stock graze in the pastures, the air is moist and salubrious, and the landscape is simply beautiful. Next we come to the Agency, where Col- W. D. Gibson has been head chief for the past four years. The surroundings are well kept, and we saunter up to the schoolhouse, where Miss

Taddie Doane has control of some sixty young Piutes. They are progressing, we believe, but you can judge for yourself by looking at their work, which is a part ol the Nevada exhibit to the National Educational Association.

Below the Agency is the battle ground of the Piute war of i860, of which, owing to lack o* space, we can only give a curtailed account The general reasons assigned by the Piutes for this war were the encroachments of the whites upon Indian lands, and the destruction of the pine forests. The first outbreak of the Indians was the burning of Williams' Station, near Fort Churchill, and the killing of five whites. The news of this outrage was brought to the settlement by James O. Williams, and the whites vowed vengeance. All the scattered settlers were called in, and detachments were organized for the purpose of retaliating. The volunteers numbered 105 men, were divided into five squads, and officered as follows: Virginia City (Company 2), . Captain Archie McDonald; Virginia City (Company 1), Captain Frank Johnson; Silver City, Captain R. G. Watkins; Carson City, Major W. M. Ormsby; Genoa, Captain T. F. Condon. With Major W. M. Ormsby as commander, the regiment started, and May 9, i860, encamped at Buckland's Station, Carson River. On the 10th they arrived at Williams' Station, the scene of the massacre they intended to avenge. On the nth they encamped at the Big Bend, or Lower Crossing (now Wadsworth). On the 12th they marched down the Truckee River to the beginning of the avenue before mentioned, where the valley widens out, and where is now the principal farming portion of the reservation. This place is a veritable basin, and more than probable was worn away by high water. To the left is a table land, gradually sloping from the base of the surrounding foothills to the edge of the basin. To the right is an extensive table land, running ten miles as a sandy flat to the mountains. The regiment, if such you will allow us to call it, had entered the basin, and marched north one and a half miles, or to where the Agency buildings now stand, when they saw a band of mounted Indians on an elevated point to the right and in front of them. The order was given to charge, and about half the command dashed up the slope, only to find that the Indians had disappeared, and another band just out of rifle range strung out in a long line before them. While considering what to do next, the Piutes sprang up from behind the sagebrush on every side and poured in lead and arrows on the whites. The company were stupefied with surprise; their horses, terrified by the noise of the battle and the hideous yells of the Indians, stampeded and could not be controlled That part of the command still in the basin made ior the timber, and the frightened animals of the others rushed after them to a point on the river northwest of the Agency buildings. This was a fatal move, as the Indians on die plateau strung out, flanked the whites on the south, and prevented them from retreating the way they had come, and drove them north, where another band of Indians was in ambush among the cottonwoods. Here the whites found themselves hemmed in on every side, and to try to escape was to run the gauntlet It had to be done, however, and they turned their horses to the south. Many were pulled from their horses; others got through, only to be pursued, overtaken and shot down. The pursuit was continued as far as Wadsworth, when night gave its friendly shelter to the remnant, who lost no time in making their way to Buckland's Station. Thus in disaster ended this first battle fought at Pyramid Lake. Soon the news of the result, with all its horrors, went flashing over the wires, and help came from Nevada City, San Juan, Sacramento and Placerville, the gallant Californians braving the Sierras to add their number to the brave Nevadans who enlisted from Virginia City, Gold Hill, Genoa, Silver City, Dayton and Truckee Meadows,' in all numbering 544, rank and file. On May 24, i860, the regiment moved from Virginia City, and that night camped below Dayton, where they spent the next day in receiving stores. The march was resumed on the 26th, and the next camp was at Reed's Station. On the 28th, near Williams' Station, they lay down for a few hours 1 rest On the 31st they reached Wadsworth, where they were joined by United States troops to the number of 260, making a total force of 804, with CoL Jack Hays as commander of both divisions. From Wadsworth the command moved down the river eight miles and went into ' camp, afterward named Fort Storey, in honor of Captain E. T. Storey, of the Virginia Rifles, who was shot near here a few days later, and after whom is named Storey County. On June 2d a detail of 80 men, under Captains Storey and J. B. Van Hazen, was sent out on a scouting expedition, with instructions to retreat to Fort Storey if they saw the enemy, and not to hazard an engagement if they could avoid it. The gallant 80 marched until they reached the basin where the former battle was fought. Here they saw the enemy advancing in triangular form, with apex in front, and, obeying instructions, they retreated, the Indians following for several miles. After passing the gulch where the Truckee flows 400 feet below, the detail saw the main force under CoL Hays advancing, so they came to a stand in a small flat, with the Truckee on the east and mountains on the west, the Indians taking position in the rough gorges and buttes. The volunteers took the flat, and the regulars scaled the hill, all advancing in a straight line, stretching from the river a mile west, and forcing the Indians to. retreat before them. A brisk fire was given and returned. From mountain, hill, ravine and gorge the Indians were compelled to retreat, though through the whole afternoon they obstinately contested every loot of the ground. When morning dawned on the day following the fight, the Indians had vanished. Captain Storey was shot through the lungs, and died on the field a few days later. Two of his men were killed, making three of the whites, while the Indian loss was probably filty. This is called the battle of Truckee. On the 4th day of June the march was resumed, the command, with the exception of those left behind with the wounded at Fort Storey, continuing down the Truckee, and taking to the range of hills between Winnemucca and Pyramid Lakes. Here in a rocky fastness the enemy were found, but they fled before the whites, and the Indian troubles virtually ended.

Major F. Dodge had charge of the reservation as Agent; and, as the Indians gradually worked back, they were received with plenty of rations and clothing; and although they threatened to outbreak several times, they did not, and many are taking advantage of school and ranch, and show considerable progression. They raise hay and grain in Summer, and catch about $4,000 worth of trout in the fishing season. The following gendemen have been Indian Agents, or acted as such: Messrs. Dodge, Wasson, Gregg, Lee, Bajcomb, Parker, Bateman, Garvey, Spencer, McMasters, Gibson. The last named, Col, W. D. Gibson, has gained the confidence of the Indians, made many improvements, done a world of good in school matters, and labored to, and succeeded, in doing more than he was paid for.

Wadsworth, at an elevation of 4, 077 feet above the level of the sea, is situated in the southeastern part of the county, where the Central Pacific Railroad crosses the Truckee River. The Big Bend, or Lower Crossing, of the Truckee River is familiar to our' pioneers and to all overland emigrants who came by this route, as being the place where they obtained the cold mountain water, more precious than gold; the fresh river trout beyond price; where their oxen cropped the first green grass for many days ; and where wearied body, eyes and soul found relief from the fatigue of the pelting sun and scorching sand of the desert

It was here that Fremont left the river to journey south in 1844, and here that the tired party of emigrants guided to water in the same year by the faithful Indian, Truckee, as a reward for a well kept promise, gave his name to the beautiful stream. Here the river turns to the north to find repose in the bosoms of Pyramid and Winnemucca Lakes, and here many a wornout traveler bent his knees to praise an all merciful God for rich gifts.

In 1854 Bill Gregory established a trading post, and he was followed in later years by others, who cut grass and peddled it and water to emigrants on the desert Not only this they scoured the plain in search* of stock which had fallen by the wayside overcome by work and left to die. When found they were given grass and water and then driven to Wadsworth where they were fattened and sold again to other emigrants. Hither in 1861 came T. G. Herman, Joseph Fellnagle, George Alt and James Morrow, to find homes and settle. Tom Herman and Joe Fellnagle formed a partnership and took up land which now forms part of the Herman ranch. Alt and Morrow took up land adjoining on the. south.

and here the four lived together until Alt and Morrow determined to go back to the Truckee Meadows and disposed of their property to Tom and Joe. In 1862 and for some succeeding years Belleville, Grantsville, Columbus, Ellsworth and other places were in their prime, and the roads were dotted with freight teams engaged in transporting merchandise, machinery, lumber etc, at two and one-half cents per pound, to the booming camps. Quite a town sprang up across from the present site of Wadsworth, named Drytown. The hotel man, the blacksmith, the harness-maker, *he saloon man, the keepers of feed corrals, the barber, the wagon-maker and the storekeeper, all flourished. Contemporaneous with and succeeding 1862, times were lively and money plenty. Seventy-five freight teams, prairie schooners, with crews of teamsters and their swampers, sailed the high seas of the desert. The earliest business men were: John Halloway Tom and Joe, Dan McClaine, Hugh Knox, William Nicholls, E. Olinghouse, William Patterson, Andy Russel, George Frazier, P. McDonald, E. Fowler, D. M. Geiger, John Lee, Lem Savage, James Ferguson, Dave Ehler, William Donaldson, M. Gilbert, M. Raphael; and as ranchers, Tom and Joe, Hank Miller, John Newman, Will Gates and J. O. Gregory. Many of these came with the Central Pacific Railroad in 1869. Bill Nicholls, now mine host of the Wadsworth Hotel, established Stockton Station on the desert Nov. 10, 1863, and a well was sunk 295 feet before water was found. The old town of Wadsworth, named after General Wadsworth, was given birth by the Central Pacific Railroad Company in 1869, but Drytown continued to exist and do an immense freighting business with Downieville, Benton, lone, Silver Peak, Bishop's Creek and Gold Mountain until 1880, at which time the Carson and Colorado Railroad captured the freighting and Drytown naturally dried up and blew into Wadsworth. A ferry-boat crossed the river above before the railroad bridge was built, and another a few miles further up. To the east of Wadsworth is the Great Desert and there is no water until Humboldt, 100 miles distant, is reached. Owing to this fact the Central Pacific, Company concluded to establish a station on the river where they could obtain water/ and Wadsworth is that station. In the old town across the river the company established the headquarters of the Truckee Division, built car and machine shops and a round house. Churchill county found Wadsworth a base of supplies, business men came from other localities, buildings were constructed and a town burst upon the vision. Then followed a two years' contest between Lyon and Washoe Counties for the possession of Wadsworth. The struggle was due to the uncertainty of a boundary line, defined as running along the old emigrant road. The people of Lyon County found a road which they supposed was and claimed to be the ' 'old emigrant road' ' and said boundary. Had this claim been allowed it would have left Wadsworth in Lyon County. Washoe county had always exercised jurisdiction over the town, and when the Lyon County officials attempted to assess the property and collect taxes, the matter was taken into the Courts. The case was tried twice in Ormsby County without arriving at a decision. It was then taken to Humboldt County, and the trial resulted in favor of Washoe County in May, 1871.

The $4,000 bridge that spans the Truckee River was built by the county in 1879, and the old ferryboat, past its days of usefulness, was taken from the water.

Jully 15, 1882, the village was overrun by tramps, and they threatened to sack the town. They became so bold that the railroad men organized an impromptu "601" squad and the tramps were ordered to leave.

One gang stole a handcar and started towards Reno with it. The railroad officials were apprised of this, and started in pursuit with the yard engine. The tramps were overhauled, several shots were exchanged, and one of the number was wounded. The car was recovered, the winged bird brought to Wadsworth, and was afterwards jailed.

At noon, April 15, 1884, a fire broke out in the yardmaster's office, which was in the railroad depot. In ten minutes the depot, postoffice and Wadsworth Hotel were in flames. The yard engine was at Two-mile siding, the water supply came from wells, the buildings were old and dry, and nothing could be done. The fire spread rapidly, and inside of three hours four-fifths of the town was in ashes. Many were without home or shelter, and, to cap the climax of their misery, snow commenced falling, and continued far into the next day. Thus perished the old town, and the loss exceeded $100,000. The previous summer ground had been broken across the river for the new railroad shops. Here are located the coal shed, the machine shop, the round house, the freight depot, car shop, depot and offices, ice house and library of the Truckee Division, C. P. R. R. The buildings are all models of neatness and beauty, while the brick and stone shops, with corrugated iron roofs, are the finest buildings on the line of the Central Pacific Railroad. After the fire business houses and residences were constructed on the new town site. E. Griswold erected a large brick store, and William Donaldson's ''Nevada House," is one of the best appointed hotels in the State. The town is lined with neat residences, lawns and trees, and bids fair to become one of the prettiest villages in Nevada. The spirit of improvement manifested by the officials of the C. P. R. R., in setting out hundreds of poplar, cork elm and locust trees, preparing lawns around their properties, building such pretty structures, etc., has communicated itself to the citizens, with the above results. The railroad company have deeded a lot to the church authorities, and the house of God is rearing its head. Provision has been made for a $4,000 schoolhouse, to be constructed during this vacation, and buildings are constantly being added. The town numbers 500 busy souls, not an idle man in the place, engaged principally in railroading. Wadsworth is the shipping point for the borax, salt, soda, wool, etc., of Churchill County, and the base of supplies for that place; the shipping point for trout caught along the Truckee River and in Pyramid and Winnemucca Lakes, and tor the stock raised on the surrounding ranges of hundreds of square miles. These interests support two large hotels - one kept by Donaldson & Babcock, and the other by the old pioneer, Bill Nicholls. Two large grocery stores (E. Griswold & Co. and John Lee), a meat market (Dan Proctor), two general stores, a barber shop, a shoe shop, three feed corrals (one by Andy Russell, the best place to put up; one by George Sawyer, and one by James Crosby), a blacksmith shop, and a general amusement hall. Ranches in the vicinity cut 1,000 tons of hay, and T. G. Herman has a large dairy, which furnishes the town with sweet milk and good butter. J. B. Cambers has a stage which carries the mail freight and passengers to all points in Churchill County. Wadsworth is the second town of importance in the county, and it is still growing. The people are busy, prosperous, sociable and happy, J, H. Whited, Superintendent of the Truckee Division, with headquarters at Wadsworth, has an elegant home, holds the respect of employers and employes, and his twenty years of experience in railroading enables him to run this part of the C. P. R. R. as the best conducted division on the line oi the road. George H. Hunt, Master Mechanic, assisted by George Angus as foreman, keeps the machine department shining. William McPherson, Superintendent of the car shops, has served many years in this capacity, and helps maintain the standard ot excellence. The editor is in the sixth year oi his residence here, and finds a charm in the library, climate, people and children, potent enough to make him wish to linger. Wadsworth is represented by $500,000 worth ol property. engineers' and mechanics' library association. On June 23, 1879, Master Mechanic George Gregg, a liberal-minded man of large brain, and one of the recognized best mechanics on the Pacific Coast, took the first step to found a library here. With him to think was to act, and on the 30th oi June, one week later, the Engineers' and Mechanics' Library Association was organized, with the following charter members: George Gregg, James Abbay, George Abbay, Charles Archembault, Richard Atkinson, James Bird, William Bird, Sol Brown, Richard Blundell. J. F. Crosby, A. T. Clippinger, Nick Cole* L. S. Clark, M. Coyle, Tom Cullen, T, E. Cardinell, N. S. Church, A. J. Davis, Robert Drought, B. F. Dolan, Humphrey Draper, John Dunn, Martin Duxted, H. D. Esden, J. C. Erb, Ed. Farley, John R. Forrest, J. R. Garcia, W. W. Geery, J. Hutchinson, James Hulsapple, J. W. Hall, S. R.

These gentlemen met, signed the roll, and adopted the Constitution June 30, 1879. With the dues collected in advance and the donations made 200 volumes were placed on the shelves. Helped along by Gregg's untireless efforts, and many early courtesies extended by J. A. Stevens, the number of volumes grew and the membership increased. The library room was in the old round-house. When the town was destroyed by fire the library was passed, and we reach July, 1884. When the new town was laid out and the new railroad buildings constructed, the Central Pacifie Railroad Company, in token of their appreciation of the labors of their employes, erected this building tor the use of the Engineers' and Mechanics' Library Association, where it stands to-day as a reward of merit

On entering the building we find ourselves in a large, airy and commodious room. Bookcases in black, trimmed in gold, and filled with 2,500 well selected and well bound volumes of the standard and highest grades of literature, line the sides. Two nicely ornamented steam heaters respectively occupy the north and south ends ol the room, while between them are two large and wellfinished tables, upon which are to be found all the principal magazines of the United States, and the daily papers and periodicals of the Pacific Coast. Heavy linoleum covers the floor, and easy-chairs and lounges give the place a home-like appearance. Interesting and instructive statuettes, mounted on white and gilded pedestals, placed in appropriate nooks, gratify esthetic and refined taste. Here on a black walnut altar is an elegant and beautifully bound Bible, the gift of A. J. Stevens, a man venerated and loved by all who knew him; and there, suspended from the center of the ceiling, is a massive chandelier, a token from the same generous heart Large oil paintings of landscape scenes, photographs of engines and engineers, of prominent civilians and railroad officials, grace the wall. Here in a large frame are the photographs of the organizers of the library; and there, in a group, are the likenesses of Senator Leland Stanford, C. P. Huntington, J. A. Fillmore, A. N. Towne, Judge Crocker, Charles Crocker, Mark Hopkins and £. H. Miller, Jr., the friends of the institution, through whose instrumentality the building was erected, and to whose generosity the association is heavily indebted. Passing ont we find ourselves on a green lawn of Kentucky bluegrass. Gravel walks lead around the yard, and, shaded by cork elm trees, we view the lovely flowers and inhale their fragrant odors. Here travelers from the East, after riding across the dreary desert, give vent to exclamations of pleasure and delight; and here many a man is taught that the officials of the Central Pacific desire the advancement of their employes, and, in order to promote it, give every necessary advantage. The building, within and without, the flower-fringed grounds, the appointments all in all, stand as a living monument of a good and great deed, of a Western taste and a Western culture; and nowhere the wide world over is there a village, town or city but Wadsworth which can show in a public library five volumes for every man, woman and child within its confines. The doors are opened wide, and you are invited to enter. As a solitary, sparkling and scintillating gem, it gives forth its generous light to gladden the hearts of a grateful community.

Pioneer Days

Following in the footsteps of the Mormon Jamison, an emigrant by the name of Fuller made a settlement above him on the south side of the Truckee River in the Spring of 1859. With his ax he entered the virgin forests which clothed the mountain side, leveled the towering pines, and from their trunks hewed out the logs for his habitation. In this wayside inn he stored goods brought from California, and otherwise prepared to gather in the shekels of those who were sweeping towards the new El Dorado. Shortly after he had comfortably established himself in his new quarters the cry of "Silver in Washoe !" rolled over the mountains and reverberated through the valleys. The travelers, long pack trains, and freight teams, on the way to the Comstock, found a crossing and accommodation at Fuller's Station. In 1 86 1 a road was constructed from Virginia City to this point, and Fuller built a bridge over the Truckee, and was allowed a franchise to collect toll. In 1862 the bridge was carried away by the raging torrent of that year, and Fuller disposed of his property. The bridge built to replace the old one became the well of wealth into which M. C. Lake dipped long enough to acquire a sum which placed him in the ranks of Nevada's millionaires. The name of the place was changed to Lake's Crossing, and it stood where the Riverside Hotel, formerly the Lake House, now stands.

time of the discovery of silver at Virginia City, the freight and passenger traffic from California to the Comstock passed by the way of Lake's Crossing. When the Central Pacific Railroad began to ascend the mountains with giant strides, it was supposed that at some point along the Truckee a station would be established where the supplies for Storey County would be unloaded and forwarded. Glendale was a thriving little village, and the first survey of the road indicated that it would be selected as the site for the proposed railroad station. It probably would have been chosen but for the rise of the river, which flooded the town and the surrounding country. The officials sought higher ground, and the mantle of choice fell upon Lake's Crossing. M. C. Lake deeded forty acres to Charles Crocker in consideration of his causing a station to be established there, laying it out in town lots, and conveying a certain number of the lots back again. This was accordingly done. The town was christened

In honor ot General Jesse Reno, who fell at South Mountain;- and at auction, May 9, 1868, some of the lots brought $1,000. Reno is 39° 3 1 * 36 n north latitude, and 4,500 feet above the sea-level. After the selection of the town site and the sale of lots, even before the railroad had reached the new-born city, people flocked in and began to build permanent homes. Auburn was absorbed and the town grew. On the 18th of June, 1868, the first train from Sacramento arrived, and brought with it the tangible assurance of a bright future. The news was heralded far and wide, and all rejoiced. California was wedded to Nevada - King of Gold and Queen oi Silver. Then began a great stampede of new settlers, and the young fledgling, nestled at the foot ol the eastern slope of the Sierra, developed fast.

On the 4th of July, 1868, appeared the first newspaper, the Reno " Crescent," edited by J. C. Lewis. Conscious of her growing strength, Reno began to cast longing eyes upon the county-seat. On August 5, 1 868, a petition signed by 765 citizens was presented fo the Board ol County Commissioners, asking that the county seat be transferred from Washoe City to Reno. The Board was composed of A. C. Cleveland, H. M. Frost and J. H. Snodgrass. Frost and Snodgrass opposed the measure, and the petition was denied September 8, 1868.

On the 10th of May, 1869, the last spike was driven on the Central Pacific at Promontory Point, and the West and East were linked by bands of steel. Then were the palmy days of Reno; through trains began to arrive; work for all; money was plenty; good wages and prices were paid; saloons and dance-houses flourished ; music, revelry and gambling held sway; and the number of bad characters increased. But soon churches and schools were erected ; families came and settled; the society of good and pure women could be obtained, and the bad element sank into the minority. Reno had advanced, increased in size and business importance, while Washoe City had retrograded still farther. The result was another petition presented to the Board of County Commissioners February 1, 1870. The Board consisted of W. R. Chamberlain, G. W. Brown and M. J. Smith. A protest was filed by the citizens of Washoe City. The petition and the protest were considered February 2d. T. E. Hayden appeared for the petitioners, and William Boardman and William Webster acted as counsel for the people of Washoe City. The petition proving insufficient, Hayden was allowed to withdraw it, and Boardman and Webster filed a protest. On the 4th of April Hayden came with another petition to the same effect, and it was granted the day following its presentation, Chamberlain and Smith voting in the affirmative and Brown in the negative. The Board ordered the county officers to remove the records and offices to Reno. The people of Washoe City applied to the District Court for an order restraining the removal of the county seat The order was granted, but when it came up for a hearing the writ was dismissed. An appeal was taken to the Supreme Court, and by its decision the action of the Commissioners was annulled. The next step Reno took was to bring the matter before the Legislature, and an Act of February 17, 1871, declared Reno to be the county seat on and after April 3, 1871. The people of Washoe City were incensed, and had a bill introduced into the Legislature, asking that they be attached to Ornisby Gounty. The bill failed to pass. The county officers came hither and located in various places, while the District Court was held in Peters' Theater.

In 1870 the town enjoyed a thriving business and great prosperity. The population had increased to over 1,000. The hastily constructed shanties gave way to neat dwellings, and brick structures made their appearance. The town had spread beyond the limits as first laid out, and M. C. Lake annexed an addition on the south side, while J. J. Dunning did the same on the north.

Incorporation

Then came vigorous talk of incorporation. When the county seat was secured many of the citizens desired to see the town incorporated, to better insure life and property. A public meeting was called January 7, 1871, and a committee appointed to draft a bill, but beyond this nothing was done, and the matter was dropped for nearly six years. An election was held and 280 votes were cast, giving a majority of 38 in favor of incorporation. Steps were taken to carry out the will of the people, and a bill was introduced into the Legislature and passed March, 1879. The town was incorporated April 8, 1879, in accordance with the Act of March 9. The town, as incorporated, embraces the district described as follows:

Beginning at the corner of sections 2, 3, 10 and 11, township 19 north, range 19 east; thence east between sections 2 and 11 and 1 and 12 to the one-fourth corner between 1 and 12; thence south through the middle of sections 12 and 13 to the center of section 13; thence west through the middle of sections 13 and 14 to the one-fourth corner between sections 14 and 15; thence north between sections 14 and 15, zo and z z to the place of beginning, containing all of section n, the west one-half of section 12, the northwest one-fourth oft section 13, and the north one-half of section 14, township 19 north, range 19 east

The corporation is governed by the Board of County Commissoners, who levy taxes, pass ordinances and regulate the fire and police departments.

Fire Departments

The first effort at organization in this direction was made by Reno Hook and Ladder Co. No. z. There was not enough enthusiasm manifested and it soon ceased to exist At this time Messrs. Browky, Lake, Howell and Ashton were appointed Fire Wardens. Next came the Bucket Brigade. On April 4, 1871, a meeting was called to consider measures for protection against fire. As a result ol this meeting a fire bell was obtained, 7 wooden cisterns, with a capacity oft 1,000 gallons each, were constructed, and zoo buckets were placed near the cisterns so they would be ready for instant use.

Reno Engine Co. No. I.

On November zo, 1876, the above company was organized with 64 members, with J. L McFarlin, Foreman,and Morris Ash and L Marks, Assistants. Nearly $3,000 was subscribed at the time by the citizens, and more afterwards. It was decided to purchase a steamer, and a La France patent rotary engine was chosen. The steamer, 1,000 feet of hose and two carts cost $5,000. Next the railroad company fitted out Engine 48 and the railroad boys tended her.

On July 21, 1877, Washoe Co. No. 2 was organized, with Allen Bragg as Foreman, and R. P. M. Kelly and N. J. Salisbury as Assistants. The Monumental Engine No. 6 was purchased at Virginia City in 1883. In 1887 the Volunteers complained of lack of support and threatened to disband. In 1888 the Fire Department was reorganized with H. J. Thyes, an efficient and energetic fireman, as Chief. The volunteers have never had justice done them; they were not supported as they should have been, and it seems to us that the authorities are a little too close-fisted yet. In -\ nutshell, it is a matter of false economy.

The first serious fire occurred October 29, 1873, when zoo buildings were destroyed. About half-past zo at night flames were seen issuing from the Western Hofel, on Commercial Row, between Virginia and Sierra streets. The alarm was instantly sounded and the people rushed from all directions to the scene of the disaster. Before the Bucket Brigade could get water the flames were burning fiercely. The citizens fought the fire with wet blankets and buckets of water, but their endeavors availed but little. The fire spread, reaching Masonic Hall on the west and Barnett's brick on the'east in a very short time. Around this it went to Virginia street and down to Bell & Burke's brick store on Second street Crossing Virginia street here it swept back on the other side to Commercial Row. In two hours were burned the two brick blocks bounded by Sierra, Center, Second and Commercial Row. except four stores, a few dwellings, the Journal office and the Masonic Hall, the very business heart of the city. Good service was rendered by the railroad fire trains that came to the rescue from Wadsworth and Truckee. The S. T. Swift came from Carson, but before she arrived, the fire was under control. One hundred thousand dollars went up in the flames, on which there was some insurance.

In the evening of October 25, 1875, George SchafTer's residence on Commercial Row caught fire, and other dwellings followed, with a total loss of $25,000.

On February 13, 1877, the Depot Hotel was partly burned, at a loss of $1 5,000, the flames enfolding in their horrible embrace a Swedish chambermaid named Mrs. Lena Johnson. The body, partly burned, was rescued from the fire..

The greatest disaster that has ever befallen the young city occurred May 2, 1879. Almost a hurricane was blowing, when a fire caught in a pile of cedar wood near the railroad house, supposed to have been caused by sparks blown from a burning chimney. "Grandmother" Hogan emptied two tubs of water upon the flames, but the wind blew so fiercely they got beyond her control. The Fire Department was called out, and the citizens labored with them for four long weary hours. The work was hitile in the face ot the fierce gale, and the flames licked up everything. The fire leveled everything before it, until nothing was left for it to feed upon, when it died out Ten blocks were laid in ashes, including every business house in town, save two grocery stores, while five human beings perished. The loss amounted to $896, 000, and the insurance was only $194,000, leaving $700,000 to be borne by the unfortunate town. Hundreds were rendered homeless, and there was not sufficient food in town to feed the hungry. Sweet relief was sent from Virginia City, Carson. Truckee, Wadsworth, ancl other places. The Legislature appropriated $10,000 for the relief of the sufferers.

Great as was this disaster to the merchant and citizen, they retained their energv and enterprise, and ere the ashes were cold a new city, fairer and nobler, began to rise. Reno to-day is suffering in her business and commercial enterprises from the effects of that calamity. Several small fires have occurred since then, but they are hardly worthy of notice, with the exception of the burning of several small boarding-houses and a store in May last We believe the present Fire Department is in good hands with Thyes at its head,

In 1874 Reno was overcrowded with threecard-monte men, gamblers, burglars, garroters and other blacklegs. Several of the most notorious of these characters received free passes to leave town within a certain time, and they went. In July, 1874, five men attacked and attempted to rob W. C. Elliott on a back street Elliott's cries for help, and two pistol shots fired by him, caused his assailants to run, and drew Deputy Sheriff Avery to the scene. Avery pursued the flying robbers, and overtook two of them at the bridge. One of them turned and drew his gun, but the officer covered him with his revolver and took him in charge. Officer Hutton captured a second, and the others were pursued to Crane's and captured by Kinkead. They resisted arrest at first, but the brave Under Sheriff drew a bead on them with his shotgun and ordered them to surrender. The reply was a taunting laugh, as the three stood at bay with drawn revolvers. Pointing his gun at one, the officer warned him to put down his weapon before he counted three, or he would shoot. The warning was not heeded, and the officer fired, lodging two balls in the man's breast. The others surrendered, and were conveyed to Reno by their plucky captor. In two weeks the members of the gang were «tried, and sent to Carson for twelve years.

Soon after this trouble an association ot citizens was formed and known as " 601." Their warn-i ings were needed, and when a bad character received a note signed with that significant number, he stood not on the order of going, but went

One of "the ilk," W. J. Jones, a saloon-keeper, by misrepresentation induced a young lady who sought employment to come from San Francisco to nurse an invalid woman. He met the young lady at the train when she came and unknowingly to her conducted her to his saloon. As soon as the light permitted her to see the character of the place she retired, but not before the dastard had insulted her. One Carson, a friend of Jones, hearing of the matter, went to the young lady and represented himself as a friend who would help her out of the trouble and take her to a place where the would receive protection. The confiding girl went with him and he abuied her confidence as Jones had done. She escaped from him and rushed back to the hoteL Her story became known, and the Masons tenderly cared for her. Carson was lodged in jail but the Vigilantes secured Jones, conducted him to the railroad bridge, and gave, him a coat of warm tar and snow-white feathers. They then presented him with a ticket for Truckee, put him aboard the train, and bade him good-by with much pleasure. The next day this Reno ostrich might have been seen on a rock near the river at Truckee, crouching and squirming, while several Chinamen tried to rid him of his plumage. When they had partially succeeded, he swore vengeance on the Renoites, but, strange to say, he never came to get it

Public Buildings And Structures

The toll-bridge that spanned the river at Reno and known for many years as "Lake's Bridge," was declared free in 1872. Its long service, rendering it insecure, the fine iron suspension bridge which now occupies its place was built five years latter by King & Wheelock, at a cost of $15,700.

On July 7, 1871, the Board of County Commissioners, consisting of T. K. Hymens, T. G. Herman and George Robinson, advertised for bids for the construction of a Court House, according to the plans of Mr. Sellars. It was awarded to S. F. Hoole for $20,000. Several locations were offered for the site, and M. C. Lake's accepted. He agreed to present the County one acre of ground on the south side of the river, and $1,500 in cash, besides planting shade trees and laying out a public square in front of the lot Reno was almost entirely on the north side of the river and when the decision was known D. H. Haskell and others brought suit to restrain the Board from building there, on the ground that the proposed site was not in the town of Reno. After much litigation the action of the Commissioners prevailed, and on the 22d of June, 1872, the corner stone of the Court House was laid. It was accepted January 24, 1873. It is a fine brick edifice 58x79 feet, and two stories high. On the lower floor are the offices of the Clerk, Recorder, Treasurer, and the Sheriff, besides the jail. On the upper floor are the office of Assessor and District Attorney, besides a neat and convenient court room. The building is surmounted by a dome, from which a fine view of Truckee Meadows can be obtained. In the summer of 1879 an excellent fire proof vault and a large burglar proof safe were constructed in the office occupied by the Treasurer and Recorder by the Hall Safe and Lock Company, for $2,440.

October 4th, 1875, forty acres of land on the south side of the river, and one mile east of Reno, and twenty-five inches of water, were purchased of A. J. Hatch for $1,000, to be used as a Poor Farm. A contract was let to Wm. Thompson, April 17, 1876, for the construction of a County Hospital on the Poor Farm at a cost of $5,253.

The State Insane Asylum was accepted March 2, 1882. It is located two and one-half miles east of Reno and can be plainly seen from all parts of the valley. It stands two stories of fine brick walls with a handsomely striped mansard rool and a stone basement It is 150 feet north and south, and 230 east and west It is 62 feet to the top of the main tower and 50 feet to the top of the roof. A tank in the main tower holds 300 gallons of water, which is pumped from the Truckee by a Pelton wheel. It is heated by steam and has 400 registers and ventilators. 752,000 bricks and 1,500 perch of stone were used in its construction. It cost $60,000. A big iron sign occupies the front facade. It is painted in black, with the letters and borders gilded, and reads : ' 'Nevada Insane Asylum," in an arch, with "1881" beneath. This edifice is the pride of our people and we point to it as such, because the appropriation for its construction and its location near Reno were secured through the efforts of some of our prominent citizens. The credit of the work does not belong to one man, for had it not been for the efforts of others we would certainly be boarding our insane with Clark 8c Co. It has already saved the State some hundreds of dollars, and to-day it stands as a monument of the zeal, energy, integrity and honesty of our home contractors. Not one dollar of the appropriation was lost through "jobs" and every stone, every brick, every plank and every nail helps to mark a true intent and a good purpose. When our young men come to take a hand in political and municipal affairs, may the Asylum building and grounds serve as a beacon to guide them to the right, and as an example to show what can be accomplished by honest public men spurred on by public welfare.

Building was commenced on the Episcopal Seminary June i, 1876. A fine structure, 40x88 feet and three stories, was completed in October at an expense of $27,000.

In the winter of 1878-79 the Catholics of Nevada erected in Reno, a fine three-story building 42x65 feet, for a convent school, which is under the charge of the Dominican Sisters. It is of wood, with a brick basement.

The State University erected in 1885 is built ol brick, having a stone foundation. Both the basement and mansard roof floors are well lighted, commodious and adapted for school purposes. The basement is divided into rooms for the janitor, stores, assay furnaces, quartz crushers and workshops. The first floor is approached by a broad flight of steps leading to a fine vestibule and hall' On the left hand side are the Principal's office, reception room, Regents room, library and museum ; on the right hand side the Assayer's office, assaying room, weighing room, lavatory and gymnasium. Ascending to the second floor the visitor will find a large lecture hall on the right and two fine class rooms on the left hand side. The third floor has two large apartments, a general assembly room and an armory.

C C. Powning's new brick is a valuable addition, and more will be built near it. Finally comes Jacob McKissick's $30,000 Temple of Thespis, on the corner of Sierra and Plaza Streets. It occupies two entire lots, being 50x100 feet, and rises to a hight of 80 feet Built of brick, and 01 imposing appearance, it is the neatest and finest building on the Pacific Coast, inland, west of the Rocky Mountains. In common with our people may he enjoy many pleasant hours within its walls. An appropriation of $60,000 has passed for a public building at Reno.

On May 24, 1875, the corner stone ol the Protestant Episcopal Church was laid, ancj on December 1 2th, of the same year, the church was opened by Bishop Whitaker for public worship.

The Methodist Church was built in 1869. Connected with the church are two societies - Ladies' Aid Society and the Society of Christian Endeavor.

The Bank of Nevada is on a solid and reliable basis, having a capital stock of $300,000, all subscribed, and the stockholders being among the chief capitalists and business men of California and Nevada. Officers: M. D. Foley, President; M. E. Ward, Vice-President; M. Meyers, Cashier; R. S. Osburn, Assistant Cashier.

The First National Bank is on a firm and durable basis, being founded and sustained by the solid business men of the country. Capital paid in, $200,000; surplus, $70,000. Officers: D. A. Bender, President; G. W. Mapes, Vice-President; C. T. Bender, Cashier; George H. Taylor, Assistant Cashier.

During Governor, L. P. Bradley's first administration he advanced the idea of moving the State Prison from Carson to Reno, for the purpose of taking advantage of the immense water power of the Truckee. His scheme was to have a woolen mill built within the confines of the prison.

During his second administration $100,000 was appropriated by the Legislature for the purpose of carrying out this idea. It took tangible shape when the walls for the proposed new institution were reared. But somebody in Washoe County was afraid that somebody else would make some money by the operation, and the united action necessary to accomplish the undertaking was not forthcoming, and the result was no more appropriations. Reno has the walls of solid masonry, and the State Prison is still at Carson.

A Meat-shipping Association was incorporated in 1877, with a capital stock of $25,000, for the purpose of sending meats East and West The first shipment was made to Chicago in December of that year, and proved profitable. Several large slaughter-houses, stock yards, etc., were constructed ne^r the railroad track, about one mile east of Reno. After several years' trial it proved unsuccessful and was given up, but may be tried again any day.

In 1886 the Reduction Works were established on the banks of the Truckee. The Reno Smelting, Mill and Reduction Works Company handle and purchase gold, silver, lead, copper and antimonial smejting ores; also, gold, silver, lead and copper concentrates, slag, matt and other secondary products; also, all free and base milling

The Silver State Flouring Mills have a capacity of 12,000 barrels annually. It uses the Stevens' roller process, and its flour cannot be beaten on

The San Francisco Soap Company manufactures chemical, olive, bleaching and laundry soaps of all descriptions, and toilet soaps in great variety, which it sends to all parts of the country.

The motive power of the large manufactories is furnished by the Truckee River, which flows through Reno. We have other manufactures, and power and room for more.

Manufacturing in Reno is in its infancy, but it is yet to be one of the leading industries. The press has always done its part towards pointing out and calling attention to various manufacturing enterprises, which, if inaugurated at home, and got under headway by home capital, would attract capital from the outside, and eventuate in building up here a great manufacturing city.

The fact that but little has been done, that few home enterprises have been started, is not a good reason why more may not be accomplished. The press has put forth facts and statements in support of the question, but its hints and advice tall upon dead ears. Hundreds of thousands of pounds of wool are yearly sheared in the Truckee Meadows and surrounding valleys, and this must, through necessity, be shipped to California. Reno is without doubt the greatest wool center on the Pacific Coast, and there is water enough going to waste in the Truckee to run all the cotton mills of Massachusetts. Just mark the fact that not a woolen mill on the coast has proved a failure. We foresee the time when the meat transportation question will come to a successful issue, and in connection therewith a large tannery. All large establishments have countless smaller ones tributary to them, and the day is not far distant when they will be instituted.

Business Directory

Reno sustains the following trades and business enterprises, viz: Ten general merchandise, seven grocery, four drug, three variety, six fruit and vegetable, and two book and stationery stores; ten hotels, six restaurants and several bakeries; two tin shops, two hardware and three furniture stores; five blacksmith and wood shops, two shoe shops, three harness shops, six barber shops, three jewelry shops and two paint shops ; four livery and feed stables; one planing mill and general manufactory of everything architectural, with box factory, etc; two lumbering businesses; one foundry and machine shop; one gas manufactory; one emporium of agricultural and mechanical implements and machinery and vehicles; one State Fair Pavilion ; two banks ; one electric light establishment ; one postoffice, and various tele-

This new building occupies a very picturesque site, less than one mile north of the railroad depot, at Reno. A description of the building appears elsewhere. The grounds comprise twenty acres, now richly covered with alialfa, but it offers a field for the construction of the best college campas in the United States.

State University, phone and telegraph offices, with a Wells Fargo office ; six physicians ; several lawyers and law firms ; one city dairy and milk ranch ; the immense reduction works ; the public school ; the Academy for young ladies ; St. Mary's College ; the State University; six churches; the Insane Asylum forthe State; about forty saloons, and two marble yards.

county, in the charming valley ol the Truckee river, was founded by an Act of the Legislature, soon after Nevada became a State. The national government endowed it with a liberal appropriation of public lands, and in 1887 donated to its Agricultural School $15,000.

In 1874 the University, then situated at Elko, opened its doors for the first time to students, with Professor D. R. Sessions, an alumnus 01

Princeton College, as Principal of the Preparatory Department Principal Sessions was succeeded in 1879 by the Hon. W. C Dovey, now the State Superintendent of Public Instruction for Nevada! Principal Dovey was succeeded by the Hon. T. N. Stone, of Elko, and the latter was followed by Professor E. S. Farrington, who was succeeded by Principal A. F. Stearns, in 1885. In this year the University was removed to Reno. In 1886, Professor J. W. McCammon, an alumnus of the Ohio Wesleyan University, was chosen Principal.

In 1887, the Legislature passed an Act establishing a Normal School in connection with the instition, and providing for the appointment of a President of the University. The Hon. LeRoy D. Brown, the State Commissioner of Common Schools for Phio, was called to this position. He took charge of the University September 1, 1887, and is still at its head. His associates as instructors are Professor Hannah K. Clapp, Professor Walter McN. Miller, and Professor William B. Daugherty. For the year just closed there was a total enrollment of seventy-six students - the greatest number enrolled, in any one year since the University was first opened.

The present Board of Regents consists of His Excellency, Charles C. Stevenson, Governor; Hon. John M. Dormer, Secretary of State, and Hon. W. C. Dovey, State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

This institution is a part of the public school system of the State, and is free to all residents of Nevada. Five schools or departments have been organized in the University : 1 . - School of Mines and Mining Engineering; 2. - ^-School of Agriculture; 3. - Normal School; 4. - Business Department ; 5. - Academic Department

The School of Mines and Mining Engineering includes a thorough study in mathematics, natural science and the English language. Graduates of this school will receive the degree of Mining Engineer. The School of Agriculture includes the fundamental branches of mathematics, natural science, the English language and observations and experiments connected with the farm and garden. Students in this school will be given an opportunity to defray a portion of their expenses by working on the University farm. The Normal School includes the studies pursued in the elementary and high schools ot Nevada, the history of education and the theory and practice of teaching. Graduates of the Normal School will receive certificates valid in any public school of the State. The Business Department includes the study of arithmetic, bookkeeping, commercial law, business forms and the English language. The Academic Department includes English, Latin, mathematics and natural science. Graduates of this department will leceive the degree of Bachelor of Arts. The University is equipped with a library, cabinet and physical laboratories. First-class facilities for chemical analysis and assaying are being provided. Practice in reading, singing, declaiming, essay writing and public speaking is afforded by rhetorical exercises, conducted by the Professors and by the literary societies of the University. Room rent and good board in respectable families can be had for less than $25 per month.

A brief history of this excellent school, the system of education and general management therein maintained, will no doubt prove very interesting to a very large majority of our readers. The Academy is conducted by a community of religious ladies, called Dominican Sisters, who form what is known in the Catholic Church as a ' ' Teaching Order. ' ' The members who compose these communities devote their lives and talents to the work of Christian education. Those entering the Order as members, although educated, are subject to a system of training which enables them to keep pace with the most approved methods of teaching.

That they have been eminently successful wherever located as teachers, is evidenced by their many and flourishing schools on the Pacific Slope and in the Atlantic States. To the interest of Reno it may be said that Mt St Mary's Academy stands as one of these many evidences of success. Eleven years ago Reno, though only partially provided with educational facilities, of- fered but slight inducements for an addition to the number of schools. The Dominican Sisters, however, on the lookout for new fields of labor, with characteristic foresight, selected Reno as their vantage-ground. With them, to decide was to act, and accordingly on the 16th of August 1877, they arrived in our midst, and, renting a suitable building as a nucleus to their foundation, opened school in a few days, with an attendance of forty day pupils and two boarders. At first sight, and considering the advantage offered by schools of this grade, this may seem a small record, but it must be remembered that another Academy had been located here a year previous, and also that many families, experiencing the effects of the dull times, felt compelled to send their children to the free schools.

In the course of a lew months the aspect of things was considerably changed. The number of boarders, day pupils and private music pupils increased so rapidly that the Sisters were obliged to reach out for more room and better accommodations, so that in one brief year of their sojourn in Reno they were encouraged to purchase property, and to take measures for the erection of their present large, substantial and well-planned building; but while this new building was but a covered frame a series of unforeseen and disastrous events occurred that were calculated to cool the zeal and dishearten those less courageous than these enterprising Sisters. Among these was the heavy pecuniary loss entailed by the destructive fire which swept away the greater portion of Reno, and took in its lurid path their old convent and school buildings, library, house and school furniture, and all other possessions. The new building escaped the general destruction, but large quantities ot valuable material intended for its completion were burned. Thus on the 1st day of March, 1878, the Sisters found themselves without accommodation for boarders or day pupils, without capital, and dependent entirely upon their school for support and the means of finishing their house. Notwithstanding this and other similar drawbacks, these good ladies persevered in their noble work, and their building is now not only an ornament to Reno, but the educational advantages there offered compare more than favorably vith any other Academy, East or West

Rt Rev. Bishop Manogue, ever zealous in the Catholic education, is regarded as the prime benefactor of the Academy and has insured the promotion of its object by his timely and tangible aid. The Sisters always speak of this, and of his abiding kindness and words of paternal encouragement, in language of unmeasured gratitude.

The Academy is one of the handsomest and most conspicuous buildings in Reno, occupying grounds - a whole block - within five minutes' walk *of the railroad depot The interior of the building commends itself by the neatness, good taste, and good judgment everywhere apparent The study, halls, classrooms, dormitories, refectory and recreation hall are all large and well ventilated. Broad stairways lead down from one to another of the spacious outside galleries, which run along the west and south sides of the building, affording means ol ready escape in case of fire. There is nothing rich or luxurious in any of the appointments, but much of that rarer elegance which is attached to scrupulous neatness and good order in a household. The grounds are spacious and well improved and the lawn of blue grass, with the broad walks bordered with elm, locust and poplar trees, render this department extremely attractive.

The discipline in the school is mild but firm, while no religious influence is ever brought to bear upon the minds of non-Catholic pupils; the polite and moral training of the young ladies is a strong feature in favor of the school, and one to commend itself to those old-fashioned parents and guardians who still hold that feminine modesty and reserve are graces that add to, rather than detract from, the womanly charms of the accomplished young lady. The course of studies pursued in the Academy is similar to that of all firstclass Academies. That the pupils at this school are well cared for, well taught, and are happy and contented, may be judged from the tact that they return to the Academy year after year, until they complete the course and depart with graduating honors. Of those who have graduated from the school, a majority have first-grade certificates, and are now actually engaged in the schools in various parts of thk State and JS^jne in California,

This in itself speaks volumes in favor of the school and although stiU burdened by debt, the pfo^pects are that no Institute in Reno will share more largely in this era of prosperity than Mt. St Mary's Academy.

Reno'S Public Schools

Nothing marks the growth and progress of a State, county, or town more certainly than does the growth and progress of its public schools. The history of most frontier towns is marked by the same features: first the saloons, the necessary stores for supplies, the gambling resorts; then as a more permanent class of people presents itself come the churches and schools. Reno in nowise differs from other towns of the West in these particulars ; and now, when so much attention is attracted to it by reason of its great natural advantages, its position as a railroad center, and its unusual educational facilities, a history of the organization of its public schools, and their growth up to the present time, will be appreciated and interesting, both to their patrons and to the friends of education generally.

The town of Reno was laid out in 1868, and grew rapidly, following the completion of the Central Pacific railroad. The first public school was opened in September, of the same year, in the building until recently occupied by the San Francisco Soap Company. One teacher, Miss Lucy A. Scott, now Mrs. L. A. Richardson, of Reno, being employed. The number of scholars rapidly increasing, the school accommodations were found to be inadequate, and a building was erected for the purpose on Front street, at a cost of $3,000. This building now forms the rear of the one known as the "Old School Mouse," standing in its original position, on the lot adjoining the one occupied by the M. E. Church. Two teachers were employed here, the school now being too large to be taught -by one. In September, 1 87 1, Orvis Ring, who had taught the schools of Ophir in its palmy days, and afterward those of Washoe City, became Principal of the Reno schools, a position he has since held with the exception of an interval of three years, from 1882 to 1885, during which time he filled a similar position in Winnemucca ; the schools of Reno being oresided over by four different principals in rapid uccession.

In 1873 the number of pupils had so increased that still further accommodations were found to be necessary, and a room on Virginia street was fitted up and another teacher employed. This building was destroyed, with most of the books of the scholars, by the great fire which occurred in October of that year, after which the M. E. Church was rented, until measures for enlarging the school house could be carried out. A special tax was levied for this purpose, the old building was moved back and the present front added at a cost of $3,450.

The population of Reno steadily increasing, the number of pupils increased in proportion; from time to time a new teacher was added to the force, until by die end of 1877 the number had increased to six, and the school-rooms had become so crowded that the wide hall between the rooms had to be utilized as a recitation room. Owing to these circumstances it was found necessary to still further increase the school buildings. With this end in view the trustees had alreadv purchased the fine lots whereon the brick school house now stands, and proceeded to the erection of the building which has ever since been an ornament to the town, being second to no schoolhouse in the State. The schools were opened here in September, 1880, seven teachers being employed under Superintendent Ring.

During these years quite a town had grown up on the south side of the Truckee River. Parents here found it inconvenient to send their children so far to the school, and urgendy demanded a schoolhouse on this side of the river. To meet this demand the building known since as the * ' South-side School ' ' was constructed and opened in March, 1881.

Since the opening of the school in 1868 to the present twenty school years have passed. How the town has grown in that time may be seen from this brief history of its schools. Beginning in that year in one small room, with but One teacher, ' with less than 80 children enrolled on the census returns, they now number twelve^departments, taught by an efficient corps of teachers, under the able guidance of Superintendent Ring, and an excellent board of Trustees, consisting of the following gendemen: Chairman, W. H. Gould; Clerk, George H. Taylor; Long Term Trustee,

S. M. Jamison. These gentlemen are active in the discharge of their duties, doing everything in their power to advance the best interests of the schools. These were never more prosperous as to attendance and progress than at the present time. By the census of 1887, 777 children were enrolled, but their number has largely increased during the year, the unfinished returns of 1888 showing up to this present date (May 21) over 900 children of school age. The number in actual attendance in the schools during April was 509, a marked increase over any previous month of the year, at least twenty new pupils having entered in the course of the month. The schools are now well-graded, the course of study being much the same as that followed in other places in the State, and one that will compare favorably with those of older and longer established schools. As arranged, it will require eight years to complete the Primary, Intermediate and Grammar Grades, the High School course requiring three additional years. From the High School a class is prepared for graduating yearly. Written examinations are held at the close ot each year, no scholar being allowed to pass from one grade to another without a certificate of promotion.

The total cost of the schools since their commencement in 1868 to their closing in June, 1888, amounts to $173,687, of which sum the teachers have received $97,200. Three school buildings have been erected, at a cost of about $30,000. Fifty-eight different teachers have been employed, of whom the following have acted as Principals: Rev. R. A. Ricker, Mr. Carson, Rev. W. C. Gray, R. P. M. Greeley, Nelson Carr, Miss E. J. Brown, Granville F. Foster, F. M. Alexander and Orvis Ring.

The present corps of teachers consist of the following: Orvis Ring, Superintendent; Miss F. A. Farmer, Mrs M. S. Doten, High School; Miss S. A. Harris, Mrs. E. J. Knowlton, First and Second Grammar; Mrs. H. M. Atwood, Miss Flora Northrop, Miss Ada F. Lackey, First, Second and Third Intermediate; Miss Emily Cutting, mixed grade; Miss M. E. Mcintosh, Miss L. Unruh, First and Second Primary; Miss Frank L. Grippen, South-side School. Janitor, N. J. Roff.

Nowhere does the sun shine on brighter-eyed, more intelligent, capable, orbetter behaved children than are to be found in Reno. Too much cannot be done in the way of fitting them to become the citizens and legislators/ the fathers and mothers of the future. All, therefore, are interested in the institutions of learning that are in our midst, and one and all should do whatever lies in their power to encourage and advance the progress and prosperity of our public schools.

Bishop Whitaker's School fbr^Girls has now been in successful operation for twelve years. It has attained a wide reputation f>r the wisdom of its management and the thoroughness of its work. From the start it has been characterized by the paternal nature of its government, and its social training in womanly qualities. While diligent attention has been given to that part of education which can be attained from books, still greater stress has been laid upon the formation of an upright, pure character. Its influence is felt in hundreds of homes, and it has become one of the most important factors in determining the future character of Nevada. During these years Bishop Whitaker has given to the school a large portion of his time and strength, and the benefit of years of previous experience in teaching and the management of schools.

But this institution, to which the people of this State owe so much, could not have been founded but for the generous gift of Miss Catharine L. Wolfe, of New York, a noble Christian woman, whose liberal endowments have aided many similar undertakings, and whose benefactions have been widely bestowed for the furtherance of education and religion, not only throughout the United States, but in foreign lands.

In 1875, Miss Wolfe offered to give $10,000 for establishing a School for Girls in Nevada, provided the Bishop would raise an equal amount In considering the most desirable place for the location of the school, there seemed to be no question that Reno offered the greatest advantages. It was the most easily reached, its climate was healthful, its future growth and permanence

Tfiis desire found practical expression in the giving, by individual subscriptions, of $4,000 in money, and the offering of several desirable sites for the erection of buildings.

ing all things into consideration, the most suitable for the use desired, assurance being given that if this site should be taken the other half of the block would be donated. There were some who thought that the place chosen was too far from town, and, indeed it might well seem so. There were but a tew houses in the space between the school block and the railroad. The walk from the depot to the school was nearly half the way through sagebrush, and north and west was an

Bishop Whitaker's School Evans, with his brothers, offered the site which the State University now occupies; Mr. Lake offered land on the bluff south of the river, and the Central Pacific Company offered half a block, to be selected from their lands in Reno.

At a public meeting held in May, 1876, a committee of citizens was elected to serve as a Council of Advice to the Bishop in selecting a site. The committee, consisting of Messrs. C.T. Bender, B. F. Leete, W. R Chamberlain, A. J. Hatch and A. H. Manning, visited the places that had been offered, and unanimously decided that the block upon which the school now stands was, takfor Girls, Reno, Nevada.

unbroken waste of sage as far as the eye could see. Now the space in front is occupied with neat dwellings, and the sagebrush on the west and north has given way to waving fields of wheat and grass. In the meantime, by diligent solicitation, the Bishop had raised the $6,000 needed, in addition to the $4, 000 given by the citizens of Reno, to secure Miss Wolfe's gift, and in June the erection of the school building was begun. It was prosecuted vigorously, and the 12th of October the first session of the school began, with fifty pupils and five teachers, Miss Kate A. Sill being the Principal. Since that time there have been changes in teachers, and a varying attendance of pupils. But the system of management which Miss Sill inaugurated, and the high ideal which she set before all who came in contact with her, have been present as a power in the life and worth of the school. At the end of the second year she returned to her home in the East, but after a year's absence she resumed her position, and continued in the efficient performance of her duties until she died, in November, 1880, loved and honored by all who knew her. The following season an exquisite stained glass window was placed in the school-room in memory of her, which serves not only to make the place more beautiful, but as a perpetual reminder of a consecrated Christian life. Her place has since been successively filled by Miss C. H. Sanford and Miss Annie M. Reed, each oi whom possessed admirable qualifications for the position, and it is now occupied by Miss Amy Pease, who combines in a large degree the best qualities of those who preceded her. But to no one who has been connected with the school is it more indebted than to Miss Eva Quaiffe, who, from its beginning, has been at the head of the Department of Music. It is to her rare ability as a teacher, her skill in music, and her hearty devotion to the school that the great success of this department is due. There are few schools, East or West, where the standard of musical attainment is so high, and where the work done is so satisfactory.

To the visitor the greatest apparent improve-? ment has been in the appearance of the grounds surrounding the school. These comprise. about seven acres, all of which ten years ago were covered with sagebrush. From 1876 to 1881 but little could be done to improve the grounds for the want of water, the only available supply being the Orr ditch, from which water was pumped for house purposes by a steam pump. But since the completion of the Highland ditch and the construction of the new reservoir, the water supply has been abundant, and a wonderful transformation has taken place. The grounds have been laid out with pleasant walks, the buildings are surrounded with beautiful flower gardens, more than five hundred trees have been planted, a fine orchard has been set out with eighty fruit trees, one-half the block is covered with grass, and the lawns in front rival in neatness and beauty those of Oakland. The place has become beautiful, and as time goes on the natural growth of the trees and foliage will rapidly increase its beauty and attractiveness from year to year.

The school has a small but valuable cabinet of minerals, and a library of about four hundred volumes, to which additions are constantly being made, and which already requires more room. There is need of philosophical and chemical apparatus, but there is a prospect of this being supplied during the coming year. Continual improvement has been the order of the school from the beginning. The aim of the management has been to secure the best teachers, to employ the best methods, to maintain a gentle but firm discipline, to train the pupils in habits oi industry and neatness, and to surround them with all the influences of a refined and happy home. The result has been apparent in the lives and conduct of the girls . who have been connected with it As the home and its surroundings have grown more beautiful Irom year to year, the standard of scholarship has grown higher, and the general character of the school has been marked by constant advancement Bishop Whitaker's School for Girls is an institution of which every citizen of Nevada may well be proud, and there is every reason for congratulation that we have within our own State a school which furnishes every advantage for acquiring an education which can be found in any sister State.

The Plaindealer

The " Plaindealer " was first issued in March, 1 88 1, with M. H. Hogan as editor and proprietor. It advocated the principles of the National Greenback party, and its career was short Its columns were marked by many brilliant editorials from a gifted pen.

Washoe Times

George Derrickson proprietor, and General' James Allen editor. In January, 1863, Derrickson was killed, and the paper was continued under the same name by General Allen as editor and proprietor. In October, 1863, General Allen suddenly fell dead. After that the paper was published by J. K. Lovejoy as editor and proprietor, and was called " The Old Piute. 1 ' In 1864 the paper changed hands, and was afterwards published as the Washoe " Weekly Star," by E. B. Wilson as editor and proprietor. On January 28, 1865, the paper again changed hands, and was thereafter published as the Washoe " Weekly Times,' ' by DeLashmut & Co., proprietors, and Charles Spencer Clarke, editor. On August 26, 1865, the paper again changed hands, and was thereafter published by Prentice & Co. , proprietors, with John C. Lewis as editor. On December 9, 1865, the paper again changed hands, and was thereafter published as the " Eastern Slope," every Saturday, by J. C. Lewis as editor and proprietor, until July 4, 1868, when the paper was removed to Reno, and issued every Saturday as the Reno " Crescent," J. C. Lewis, editor and proprietor, until the 31st day of March, 1874, when it was issued as a daily by the same proprietor, until May 10, 1875, after which it changed hands and was published as the " Democrat," by Col. J. C. Dow, editor and proprietor. It onlv lived a couple of months^ and that was the end of the first newspaper published in Washoe County.

Reno Journal

On November 23, 1870, the first number of the 44 Nevada State Journal " was issued - a weekly, published and edited by E. A. Littlefield, W. H. H. Fellows and J. G. Law. On Saturday, June 15, 1872, Messrs. Fellows and Powning became the proprietors of the " Nevada State Journal," and it was continued as a weekly by them until February 19, 1873, when it was issued as a semiweekly till March 31, 1874, when it was issued as a daily and weekly thereafter. On September 5, 1874, C. C. Powning became the sole owner, publisher and proprietor of the " Nevada State Journal," and it has been continued by Mr. Powning, as editor and proprietor, to the present time. Through the columns of the "Journal" C. C. Powning has established an enviable reputation as a fluent writer of broad ideas, and a place in the foremost ranks oi Nevada politics. May the "Journal" and its corps of faithful employes flourish, especially George Mosher, the gentlemanly and courteous foreman of the institution.

Reno Evening Gazette

The first number of the " Gazette" was printed on the 28th of March, U876, in a little office on Commercial Row, opposite the Depot Hotel. John F. Alexander, now Attorney-General for the State of Nevada, and. at that time only twentythree years of age. being joined by Mr. Hayden. started the enterprise, and achieved merited success from the commencement. In 1877 the establishment was moved into new quarters, west of the Plaza, and an eight-page weekly edition was started in April, of that year. The partnership between Alexander and Hayden finally ceased, the former becoming sole owner September 2, 1878, and, after enlarging the paper, sold out to R. L. Fulton and W. F. Edwards, on the 19th of November that year. Later Mr. Fulton became sole owner and the office was moved to its present location on Virginia street. On the 1st of February, 1887, Mr. Fulton disposed of the paper to C. S. Young and C. S. Preble.

On September 8, 1886, the " Sagebrush Stockman," the official organ of the Nevada Live Stock Association, was established at Reno, by Bloor, Sayre & Vance. On December 22, of the same year, Sayre dropped out, and the publication was continued by Bloor & Vance. Later J. B. Bloor assumed entire control, and soon after the " Stockman" was merged into the "Weekly Gazette," and the firm title of the " Gazette" became Preble, Young &. Bloor. In 1888 Mr. Bloor disposed of his interest to John M. Dormer, and the paper is now owned by Preble, Young & Dormer. With John M. Dormer, a newspaper man of large experience and marked ability at the helm, the "Gazette" will not be excelled by any paper in the State. J. B. Bloor, local editor and general business manager, is a young man of varied experience in his line of work, and from personal observation we know his duties are more numerous and harder than those of any man occupying a similar position in Nevada, yet none lead him.

The "Gazette" has always advocated those measures tending to improvement and advancement of community interests. Republican in politics, it has done more than its share to maintain party power and dignity.

State Fair

The .first State Fair was held at Reno in the Fall of 1873. For five years it proved so successful that a subscription list was started for the erection of suitable buildings, etc. The result was the Nevada State Agricultural, Mill and Mechanical Association.

Pavilion

Later ground and appurtenances were obtained for a racetrack and buildings and accommodations for live stock. The Legislature of 1885 enacted a law making the State Agricultural Association a State institution, and creating a State Board of Agriculture, and charging the members with the management and control of the State Agricultural Society as a State institution, and directing them to hold annual fairs. Ten thousand dollars was appropriated for the two years following. In accordance with the above, said annual State Fairs are held at Reno. The grounds on the south side of the Truckee River, heretofore used for the State Fair exhibits, is private property, having been leased by the State for its use. Now and henceforth the State is the owner of its own grounds, having purchased, for $14,000, eighty acres adjacent to the University grounds. The plat is in a very beautiful and commanding situation, and the work of extensive improvements goes merrily on.

The next fair begins September 17, 1888, and ends five days later. The purses and premiums amount to $10,000. Theo. Winters is the President oi the Association and C. H. Stoddard is the Secretary. Read the advertisement Last year the Carson " Appeal' ' remarked: The Fair ought to mark an epoch in the history of this State. It has demonstrated to everybody that we have a bigger and better State than we had supposed, and resources to which we had heretofore paid but little attention. The display at the pavilion of art and manufacture, of fruit, soil products and women's needlework, must indeed have astonished those who have all along been accustomed to beHeve no good could come of Nevada.

A town, city, county, or State, becomes a success from the time its inhabitants learn to appreciate and use articles of home manufacture, of home produce, and of home market People wishing to practice economy, frequendy practice j extravagance without intending to do so, when they send away for vegetables, merchandise or manufactured goods which are advertised at cheaper rates, but which are dearer than home prices, when to the first cost are added the expense of carriage. The following is but one of the many cases in point : A citizen desiring to purchase a table approached a dealer for that purpose, and asked the price of the article. The dealer said $7. The would-be customer walked away and sent to Sacramento for a table similar to the other. It cost him there $6, and he paid freight and drayage to the amount of $1.70, and yet he was satisfied that he had saved $1. He is like the rancher, who, when asked what his hay cost him in the stack, answered, $1.50; forgetting taxes, the wear and tear of horses, harness, machinery, and the value of his own time, labor, etc. People: do a great wrong by condemning without trying. How much did it cost Beck and Bole to demonstrate that Nevada flour of Reno manufacture is a world beater?