September 6, 2006

Nevada's Online State News Journal

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Nevada History:

[From The Nevada State Historical Society Papers vol. IV 1923-1924, pp. 29-189.]

Part 2

ANNIE ESTELLE PROUTY, M. A.[1]

            Reno was called into being as a junction. The first state legislature, in 1864, granted three railroad franchises to connect in Nevada with the proposed Central Pacific. The idea involved in one was important to the future city of Reno. Henry Chives and associates proposed to build a railroad from Virginia by way of Carson to the California line.[163] No railroad was constructed on this franchise although there was great need of one, the roads being bad to Carson and stage travel very unpleasant. Four dollars and a half was the fare from Lake's Crossing to Carson and the passengers were crowded and often received bruises from the jolting of the stage.[164] In 1862 and 1865 companies had been formed but with no practical result. On May 8, 1867 organization papers were filed for a corporation including Wm. Sharon, which proposed building a railroad from Gold Hill to a point six miles east of Stone and Gates crossing. The line was surveyed but the valleys of Eagle and Washoe, which would be un-

approached, protested. Then the company asked Washoe and Ormsby counties to buy stock to help build the road through these valleys.[165] The county commissioners consented to do this and articles of agreement were signed by Wm. Sharon and Thos. Sunderland for the railroad. The commissioners could not, of course, bind the counties but the people in February, 1868, unanimously signed a petition asking the legislature to pass an Enabling Act to give authority for investment. On the fifth of May, incorporation papers were filed with the Secretary of State. The terminals were to be Virginia and some point on the Truckee. The road was to pass within a quarter of a mile of Washoe, Carson and Empire City. The survey was made by I. E. James and completed June 20, 1868. Ground was broken for the laying of track February 18, 1869 and the first locomotive was brought to Carson on the sixth of August. The road was completed between Carson and Virginia November 12, 1869. The road from Reno was completed to Steamboat Springs November 7, 1871 and after long waiting the last spike was driven August 24, 1872, making the railroad continuous between Virginia and the Truckee River. The car and machine shops were placed in Carson. The telegraph line followed the railroad. In 1874 steel rails were laid between Carson and Virginia because of the heavy traffic.[166] Thirty-six trains a day were needed for carrying passengers and freight. For besides the freight and travel from Reno, there were many mills on the Carson River. Saw mills sent lumber to Virginia and the cars came back loaded with ore for the stamp mills.

            The Nevada, California and Oregon R. R. was first known as the Western Nevada R. R. A company was formed to develop extensive salt mines east of Belleville, Esmeralda Co. by connecting a railroad via Wadsworth north to the Oregon line at Goose Lake. After a short time, June 1, 1880, the idea was abandoned and in its stead the Nevada, California and Oregon R. R. Co. was incorporated by A. J. Hatch, G. L. Wood, John A. Paxton, James McMeshan, C. A. Bragg, John Sunderland and C. P. Soule as directors. The object was to construct a railroad three hundred miles long in division sections. From Reno to Beckwith Pass,[167] was to be designated as the Reno Division. A contract was let August 26, 1880, for construction. The company agreed to issue eight hundred and seventy fifty-year bonds, to mortgage the railroad to the extent of ten thousand dollars per mile. When seventeen miles of track had been laid from Reno the contractor went bankrupt and left the state. Mr. Hatch, the president, completed and operated it as best

he could for thirty-one miles. April 17, 1884, the railroad was sold to Moran Bros. of New York.[168] It now extends to Lakeview, Oregon. The shops are located in Reno and a depot was built on Fourth Street in 1907.

            In 1905 there occurred in New York the sale of mortgage bonds to the value of fifty million dollars for the construction of a second transcontinental railroad across Nevada to be called the Western Pacific. Construction was begun but bad luck seemed to follow the new railroad as the San Francisco earthquake occurred the next year and the panic of 1907 followed that disaster. On August 20, 1910 the first train from Salt Lake crossed Nevada for San Francisco.[169] This Western Pacific follows the route to Nevada which the proposed earlier Central Pacific might have followed by way of Sacramento, Marysville, and Oroville over the mountains by way of Beck-

wourth Pass and Feather River Canyon.[170] Beckwourth Pass which was urged as the hest route when Donner Lake Pass was chosen for the route of the Central Pacific, is five thousand feet in altitude and is said to be much freer from snowdrifts. Then the route follows the famous Feather River Canyon between the Pass and Oroville and then through a tunnel six thousand feet long. The Canyon has been widened in places and a bed made from solid rock. At no point though does the track drop more than fifty two feet. Then going eastward it crosses a desert sixty miles long of sand and salt ninety-seven per cent pure. For many miles the two railroads are parallel. The construction of the Western Pacific was a wonderful engineering feat. The railroad is noted for its scenic route, remarkably low grade and permanent construction as well as freedom from snow drifts.[171]

            When the Western Pacific decided to cross Nevada it was a disappointment to Reno that its closest approach to Reno was fifty or sixty miles north of the city. At first it was practically of little service to Reno because the only connection to be made with it was by the N. C. O. R. R. narrow gauge to a little station sixty-five miles north of the city, the junction of the N. C. O. and W. P. But the Western Pacific for some time had desired to gain entry into Reno over a branch so as to compete with the Southern Pacific. On March 16th, 1917, the Western Pacific purchased one hundred and five miles of the N. C. O. R. R.[172]  This includes the line from Portola, California, to Reno, a distance of sixty-five miles, and forty miles of road through Chilcoot between Blairsden

and Plumas Junction. More land has been purchased in the vicinity of the N. C. O. depot in Reno for the purpose of erecting in the future a large freight house, freight terminals and switching tracks. The grade has been reduced and the track made standard gauge.[173] Easy connection can be made with the Western Pacific at Reno Junction for Reno, where many come to trade in the retail stores. Already an extended trade is carried on by parcel post, and freight is sent out from the wholesale stores of Reno. The railroad serves a territory very rich in agricultural possibilities where much wheat is raised and great ranges feed many thousands of cattle and sheep.

points in the intermountain territory.[174] The carriers claimed that they should be allowed to meet water competitive rates at Pacific Coast terminals and that in view of the fact that interior points do not have the advantage of water competition, they should be required to pay the higher charges. Nevada and other intermountain states claimed that if the carriers can transport the goods from eastern points to Pacific Coast terminals at rates compelled by water competition and, at the same time make a profit for handling the same there must be a much greater profit for delivering the freight at interior points such as Reno, thereby, saving a haul of some two hundred and forty-

            Some cities owe their development to having been selected as the capital of the state and having a considerable part of their population serving the state in some official way. Often factories spring up in such places giving them the same character as other cities in their later development. Reno's origin was clearly as a junction city but because of being the county seat of Washoe county it has had increased and permanent intercourse with the surrounding country. Reno did not take the capital by force as the Carson editor prophesied but very soon did cast longing eyes at the county seat then located in Washoe City.[175] For when gold was discovered on Mr. Davidson, Washoe Valley had leaped into prominence. It had fuel and timber for building and also water and rich land for farming. From it the Comstock could be supplied. Many mills were established there to crush the ore hauled down by team from the Comstock. Washoe soon became a large town and was made the county seat in 1866. But like many other towns it soon found that a dependence upon mines is unstable. In about a half dozen years there was a decrease in its population and industry. Most of the mills had been taken to the Carson River and others were erected in Cold Hill. Wood could be sawed

at one of the sawmills on the Carson and floated down the river. In 1869 the V. & T. was completed between Carson and Virginia. Freight could now be hauled much easier and cheaper by railroad. Many people moved to Reno when the Central Pacific came through that place. When the V. & T. was completed then Washoe's trade was gone. Reno wanted the county seat. On August 5, 1868 a petition was sent to the county commissioners signed by seven hundred and fifty residents of Reno for the removal to Reno.[176] This petition was denied but another was sent on February 1, 1870. Washoe made a protest. Wm. Webster and Wm. Boardman appeared for Washoe and Thos. E. Haydon for Reno. The petition was withdrawn but another was soon submitted. A special election was called on June 14, 1870. Reno won by five hundred and forty-four to three hundred and sixty-two votes. Washoe then applied to the courts. The decision was rendered that the county commissioners had not followed the statute and their proceedings were annulled. However, a bill was sent to the legislature and passed declaring Reno to be the county seat on and after April 3, 1871. Washoe soon looked as though the Goths and Vandals had passed through it. The buildings were deserted or torn down. The old Washoe Court House which was built at a cost of twenty-five thousand dollars[177] was sold for two hundred and fifty dollars.

            As there was no one building in Reno suitable for county purposes, court was held in Peter's Theatre and the county officers were housed in various other buildings until the court house was erected.[178] There was much trouble and an-

noyance in selecting a site for the court house. Mr. Lake made a liberal offer of one acre of ground on the south side, fifteen thousand dollars in money, the setting out of shade trees and the laying out of a public square in front of the building. A good supply of water was another inducement. This offer was accepted by the county commissioners. A suit was then commenced on the ground that this building would not be within the city limits but it was afterwards dropped. Reno was not incorporated and had no definite boundaries. The ground, donated was a portion of the Lake Addition which Mr. Lake filed on July 3, 1871. Mr. Lake gave the public square for that purpose only and if ever sold or used otherwise it is to be taken back into the Lake Estate.[179] The corner stone of the court house was laid January 22, 1872.[180] The building was completed on January 24, 1873. It was considered a fine building at that date but proved to be very inadequate with the growth of population in the county and consequent increase of office work. It was torn down and a new, beautiful and commodious court house erected in 1905 on the same site at a cost of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars.

            From the standpoint of government, Reno may also be considered as a city having local self government with all the advantages accruing from that status. This also has been achieved by no easy stages. In its early days, Reno was infested with bad characters. Life was unsettled and many undesirable characters drifted in and were taken care of by the "601," a vigilance society which cleared the town in 1874.[181] "Tickets to leave" were passed around and free passes out of the city were given to bad characters on several occasions. Also an object lesson was once given by administering a coat of tar and feathers to a particularly bad character.[182] In the early part of 1871 there was talk of incorporation, but great opposition arose because of expense.[183] In 1877 by a small majority incorporation was voted but no further action was taken.[184] In March, 1879, an incorporation law was passed for towns in general which satisfied the needs of Reno residents.[185] The law required that a petition signed by a majority of tax payers, representing a majority of taxable property, be sent to the county commissioners. Reno had come to feel the need for better government because of its size, because its limits could not be defined,[186] and because the fire

of 1879 had nearly destroyed the town, [187] thus making the citizens realize the need of a well organized fire department.[188] April 19, 1879, Reno became an incorporated town under the legislative act, to be governed by the county commissioners who were given power to abate nuisances, levy taxes, and pass ordinances to regulate the fire and police departments. Thus after nearly ten years of agitation, Reno acquired local self-government. But not until 1903 were city officials elected by the people as provided by the charter of 1903. The city hall was completed April 30, 1907 at a cost of fifty thousand dollars. Much still remains to be done in the way of more expert management and other municipal reforms.[189]

            But on May 19, 1900, James Butler found ore where Tonopah now is[190] and thus ushered in Nevada's second great mining era. The first ore claims were located in August 1900 and in June, 1901. Mr. Butler sold eight of his original claims to the Tonopah Mining Co. for three hundred and thirty-six thousand dollars.[191] Then came Goldfield, Bullfrog, Rhyolite, Manhattan, Fairview, Wonder, and Searchlight besides others. Great deposits of copper were next uncovered in Ely and Yerington which had long been known to the prospector but never actively worked. Nevada suddenly awoke to behold her great wealth, and her pioneers as well as many from other states started in pursuit of her riches.

work the ores.[192] Due to the location near Reno, supplies and labor can be obtained and even low grade ore has been profitably handled.

            Reno's growth is not built wholly upon railroads and mines but also upon the more permanent but not so glittering riches in the valleys contiguous. When the chief agricultural products were hay and the market produce for the mines, the ranches around Reno prospered. The produce brought high prices owing to the scarcity and great cost of transportation. When the mines declined, farming became stagnant. The Carson and Truckee Valleys continued to produce steady crops of alfalfa but with little profit to the farmer. The land north of Reno for one hundred and fifty miles was of little agricultural value because of poor railroad service and the distance from a market.[193]

reclaim the desert. The government has spent nine million dollars on the irrigation system by taking water from the Truckee and Carson Rivers into great canals and ditches. There are now, 1917, upwards of five hundred farmers on the project and over thirty four thousand acres under cultivation.[194] Many more farms will be made on this land as time goes on for nearly ten thousand acres more land than is under cultivation could be farmed.[195] This one section alone is of great advantage to Reno as the land is very productive. A ready sale for products is found in the local markets and on the Pacific Coast. When ranches in Nevada were so large and hay was the chief crop not many people were needed for labor on the ranches. A few cowboys could roam over the ranges caring for the livestock, and the sheepherder with his band of sheep might be miles from another human being. The hay could be taken care of by a wandering class of men without permanent homes. Neither was the nearby town much benefited by the kind of farming that Nevada, owing to its character, has hitherto been forced to have. But the ranches on the irrigation project are not large compared with other Nevada farms and more diversified farming is carried on. Gardening is profitable and Fallon, the chief town in the district, is famous for celery and turkeys of which latter not nearly enough are raised to supply the market. Reno will benefit by this improved type of agriculture; moreover, it is not far from other agricultural communities.

has a large tract of land for irrigation. North of Reno are the famous Long Valley and Surprise Valley. These could be made into many ranches and support a large population. Sierra and Honey Lake Valleys have always found a market in Reno and could support many more people if the ranches were broken up into smaller farms.[196] In fact, all the way to Lakeview, Oregon there are water holes and springs which when advertised and made to irrigate the land will change the character of the country north of Reno. The Carson Valley of course has always been known for its fertility. Its hay and farm products and butter are well known. The Truckee Meadows, always green in the memory of the overland traveler, are still noted for hay, livestock and garden products, especially onions and potatoes.[197] Many ranches are owned by Italians who are excellent gardeners, thrifty and who make good citizens.[198] The second generation is thoroughly Americanized. The government has contemplated the draining of many acres of marsh in the Truckee Meadows which would make very valuable farming land.[199]

man finds it hard to obtain a start.[200] Even as grazing land Nevada does not rank high in comparison with some other states. Conditions for stock raising are difficult. Cattle and sheep are not fed much and the man rich in these in the autumn may find himself poor after a long cold winter in the ranges. If the snow is too deep his cattle and sheep may perish from exposure and hunger.

But farm land is becoming scarce and expensive in the Middle West. Now the poor man who wants land is asking about Nevada and ends by taking up a homestead or buying cheap land.[201] Many have tried and failed. To aid the small farmers the government has now instituted a system of rural credits to farmers through Federal Loan Banks. One of these for the Western District is located at Berkeley, California. Here the farmer may borrow money from the government to begin farming.[202] On a thousand dollars he will pay only six per cent interest and he has thirty-three years to pay. The principal is virtually a gift from the government. This promises much for Nevada and has been sorely needed. Owing to the food shortage of war Nevada has done more in an agricultural way than ever before. Nevada has depended too much on California and been too easily discouraged with home conditions. But through the necessity of war the value of home products has been discovered. The raising of beef cattle will be more profitable to the ranchers in the northern territory. Sheep, lambs and wool are a great product of Nevada. Hog raising can be carried on to a much greater

cilities labor has been scarce and has demanded high wages. Machinery is expensive to obtain because of freight rates. California and Utah both have more favorable conditions for factories. It is evident that raw material must be accessible for any successful manufacturing.[203] Pittsburg, for instance, became the center of the steel industry because coal and iron were close at hand and labor could be easily obtained and favorable railroad advantages were to be had. Market conditions for the finished product must be favorable also. In many cities local disposition is made of nearly all the product of certain industries such as clothing, printing and bakery goods. Market conditions in Nevada are unfavorable.

            In spite of these disadvantages Reno is indeed carrying on some manufacturing from products locally grown. The Nevada Packing Co. has sold its plant to Swift & Co., who have enlarged the plant and wish to buy the stock of the State. Cattle are slaughtered here and three or four hundred hogs a week. Meats are taken care of in the proper way, the cold storage plant being very up-to-date.[204] The Humphrey Supply Co. is an independent concern carrying on somewhat the same business as the Nevada Packing Co. The Riverside Mill Co. manufacture a very good grade of flour. It has enlarged the mill, preparing to turn out one hundred barrels of flour a day. It also manufactures crackers of very good quality. The output of these alone will be increased to a ton and a quarter a day. The Verdi Lumber Co. whose saw mills are at Verdi, Nevada, near Reno, are lumber dealers in Reno.

            The manufacturing district of Reno located itself on East Fourth Street and along both sides of the river because of the water power and proximity to the railroad for loading and unloading freight.[205]

close inter-relation. When Nevada produced little for manufacturing, the market for finished goods was poor and lack of competition in railroad service made Reno's development as a mercantile center seem very limited. It has hitherto been shown that Reno has always been known as a point of distribution. Before the railroad came Lake's Crossing was a supply point for the farmers of the valley. When the railroad arrived, the great freight wagons loaded with freight started from here for Virginia and Carson. Daily stages and freight wagons ran to the north going as far as Lakeview, Oregon. Others went to Sierra Valley and Susanville. Reno was a little metropolis for the towns and villages located some distance from the railroad. From fifteen to twenty prairie schooners set sail every day loaded with merchandise for these towns.[206] The stage traffic was so great that substantial business houses were erected to care for the trade. Manning & Duck built the first brick house for a store on Commercial Row where the Mapes building is now.[207]

            When mining declined on the Comstock, Reno as a wholesale center remained stationary for many years, but when the southern camps were discovered in 1901, Reno awoke in a commercial way. These depended almost entirely upon the northern part of the State and upon California for supplies of all kinds. Reno became the principal wholesale center. Now the wholesale dealers of Reno send goods north, south and to some extent east and west.[208]

            The introduction of the parcel post mail service has facilitated the sending of goods and greatly increased trade in all the territory. The southern mining camps receive by parcel post perishable goods in great quantities, depending on the wholesale stores of Reno almost entirely for meat, eggs, butter, poultry, and bread.[209]

            Some stores in Reno which carry on a wholesale as well as a retail trade are the W. I. Mitchell Co., Humphrey Supply Co., Reno Grocery Co., Conant Bros. Co., Wood Curtis Fruit Co., Gray, Reid, Wright Co. and Palace Dry Goods Co., most of which do a mail order business for out of town customers.[210] The Standard Oil Co. does an extensive business in the State from Reno as the center. It is located on Third Street. The ranchers from the district round about bring their produce to Reno. The creameries of Carson Valley send their dairy products to Reno for distribution. The stores also act as jobbers for manufacturers and producers from other states. The Automobile industry is well represented in Reno. Newly every kind of car is handled by our dealers. The agents go all over the State from Reno and because of the character of the State, with its immense distances between towns and few railroads, the automobile has been found to be indispensible to the miners and the ranchers.

on the ranches and the increase in the number of ranches, the wholesale stores will be able to handle more produce. The market will be larger for goods from the stores. A long and steady growth is predicted for the mines. The miners and ranchers both look to Reno as the base of supplies.[211] Reno's growth as a wholesale center has also been quickened by the entrance of the Western Pacific railroad. The territory to the north can send its produce, especially livestock, much easier and cheaper than formerly. A greater market will be opened up in that country where the trade center is naturally Reno. Service to and from the coast will be improved for wholesale trade. Coast cities import and export goods, but inner cities can distribute the goods received from the coast cities. Any city with good transportation facilities may control trade within a zone of some few hundred miles but transportation advantages are absolutely necessary. Reno cannot have a zone of trade such as Denver or Salt Lake but the increased growth in agriculture, mining and improved railroad service promise an increased growth of Reno as a wholesale center.[212]

            A division point of the Southern Pacific Railroad is located at Sparks, less than three miles from Reno.[213] Sparks has a population of three thousand and many of the residents are employed in the shops or in the operation of trains. As the two places build toward each other it is thought they will sometime unite. The street railway be-

tween them and many taxi autos are well patronized. The Reno retail stores receive a great amount of the monthly payroll of the Southern Pacific Co. employees. The little lumber town of Verdi, Nevada, only eleven miles west of Reno, has a population of six hundred employed in the lumber industry. The railroad and auto stage make the service between the two places advantageous to both for trade.[214] The retail stores of Reno have a metropolitan air very noticeable to strangers from far larger cities. It is said the people of Reno are very discriminating and that they demand the best. Goods are brought direct from New York and other eastern markets. Ready made clothes retailed here are just as beautiful and fashionable as those found in the large cities and they are very attractively displayed in the show windows of the modern department stores. Not only is Reno well represented in the retail clothing stores but every other phase of retail trade is carried on here in attractive stores.

            The business portion is of course in the original section. Lots sold there were immediately put to this purpose. But there has been a great change in architecture since the first hastily constructed buildings have given place to the beautiful and modern stores of today. Only a few old landmarks are left of the early days.[215] Now the retail stores tend to move away from the depot and Commercial Row to Virginia Street below Second. There are a few stores extending across the river. The removal of the Palace Dry Goods House from Virginia Street to Second seems to

            Reno has also become an office center for factories located many miles away, for the mining broker and the dealer in livestock and lands. Reno's possession of the county seat where the district court is held has also brought many celebrated lawyers here and hence there has been an unusual demand for offices. This town also is the financial center of the State. The visitor from other larger cities at once notices and comments on the number of banks and the great amount of business which they handle. The pioneer bank is the Washoe County Bank, founded June 18, 1871 by D. A. Bender & Co.[216] It has been doing continuous business since that date, and has been recently remodelled and modernized in every respect. The Reno National Bank is a beautiful and modern bank just completed in 1916. It was formerly the Nixon National Bank and prior to this was the Nevada Bank. The Farmers' and Merchants' Bank is another large national bank located in the Odd Fellows' building.[217] The Scheeline Banking & Trust Co. is another banking concern doing a large business.[218] The Reno Clear-

            Reno is a city of many homes. A large number of cattlemen and miners who wish their families to have the social advantages which Reno offers to them and who are dissatisfied with the conditions of the ranch and the camp, bring their wives and children to Reno. Even from its beginning this was done for the winter season, but since 1901 when the city started its second growth the number has increased and more and more they tend to remain here for longer periods. There are a number of homes still standing which were built in the original Reno between the track and river.[219] Some new ones have also been erected near by but the business houses have gradually taken the place of homes. The original site was soon built over,[220] and then the city spread over the boundary.

            In 1870 Dunne's North Addition of one hundred forty acres was surveyed into twenty-five blocks which were subdivided into lots.[221] Mr. Dunne represented the English Mill Co. who really owned the tract. In the winter of 1873 the Evans Bros. purchased the same tract from Mr. Dunne. Many of the lots had already been sold. Mr. Dunne filed his survey July 25, 1873 and Evans Bros. on December 26, 1879. Mr. J. N. Evans got possession of the tract and built his home at the extreme end of Evans Avenue. It was situated on the original race track which latter extended down as far as Bradley's store on the Plaza and Virginia Street. For many years the Evans home was considered to be in the country, as the addition did not build up at the north until the University was located in Reno in 1886.[222]

            Although the town was originally laid out on the north side of the river, Mr. Lake was very desirous that the town should be extended to the south side as well since he owned land there. When his offer was accepted for the location of the courthouse, he surveyed a tract around it which he named the Lake Addition. He filed it on July 3, 1871. The tract was not built up rapidly. For many years anyone who said that this portion of the city would sometime be the best residence quarter of the city would have been ridiculed.[223]

the Evans Addition and the Western Addition west of the Connor tract. This part was built up rapidly and is now well populated. The older residents built attractive homes in this part which was once considered the social section of Reno. Of recent years the south side has supplanted it.[224] The Connor tract was filed May 29, 1876 and later M. E. Ward bought the tract and filed it again on June 7, 1896. The Western Addition was filed May 20, 1876.

            The town was building mainly to the north but additions were being added on the south side also. Hatch's Addition and South East Addition were filed on June 5, 1876. Marsh's Addition was filed April 24, 1877. It is to the southwest of the Lake Addition. One of the first houses erected on it is the present Olin Ward home which was built by Mr. Marsh in 1875. Then Mr. Lake bought it, the place being known as the Lake Mansion until Mr. Ward purchased it in 1906.[225] The Hayden and Shoemaker tract in the southeastern part of the city was filed December 3, 1878.[226]

            West of the Western Addition a new plat named the Sunnyside Addition was filed by Mr. Alvaro Evans on March 17, 1887. He bought the land of the railroad very early but held it until the latter date before opening it up for sale.[227]

This was the first tract where any booming was done.[228] Mr. Powning brought excursion parties from Virginia City and other places to view the tract. The lots were sold rapidly and many beautiful homes were erected in this section. It contains many beautiful cottages and the Truckee flowing past it adds to the beauty. The Century Club Hall, formerly the Nevada Club House, and the Catholic and Baptist churches are in this Addition.

            Anderson's Addition was filed December 22, 1902. Formerly there was a sheep corral in this tract in the northern part of the city north of Evans Addition. Mr. Henry Anderson's home was the only one north of the Summerfield home far a time.[229] On the north side in the same year were added the Morrill-Smith Addition to the

            On the south side in the same year were filed Riverside Heights along the river west of Lake's Addition, Burke's Survey in Ryland's Addition and the New Southside Addition which are east of Virginia Street. Farther out on the Virginia Road was filed in 1903 Litch's Addition. The McCormick Addition was filed in 1904. These were all ranches before they were subdivided into lots.[230]

            On the north side Chism's Addition was filed on March 12, 1904. Mrs. Chism subdivided part of her ranch into lots. This tract is west of the Powning Addition. University Addition, also on the north side and lying between Anderson's Addition and the Hillside Cemetery, was filed January 7, 1905. Flanigan Addition,[231] to the north of St. George's Addition, was filed on July 3, 1905. This was subdivided into lots several years ago according to the plans of the best city builders of the day. The streets were laid out on the oblong plan instead of by squares. Sidewalks were laid and shade trees set out, previous to sale.[232] Some lots have been sold in this addition which is near the University. Kapler's Addition, east of the Morrill-Smith Addition was added on April 12, 1907. North of the same tract, University Heights was opened up July 2, 1907. The Stod-

dard Addition and McKenna Addition[233] were added in October, 1907.

            On the southside Aitken's, or the S. E. Hatch Addition was filed February 14, 1905. Mill Street is the principal street running through it. Well's, Fairfield Heights and Villa Court Addition were filed the same year. In 1906 the following additions were added : the Morton Johnson, Rio Vista Heights, Grimmons and Crampton's Addition. In 1907 the following were added : Sierra Vista Tract, Meadow View, Southern Addition, Martin's Addition, Scenic Park, Victoria Park, Terrace Tract, Burke's Addition, Arlington Heights, Newland's Heights, the Market Tract, Cloverdale Heights, Homewood, Steiner Tract, and Interurban Heights. A number of these were merely put on the market as real estate speculations. The owners were ranchers who have either divided them into town lots, or have sold or leased them to real estate agents who have divided them into town lots.[234]

            Burke's Addition has had a steady growth. Many cottages have been built on this tract because of the reasonable terms and special inducements for builders.[235] Newlands' Heights is building up rapidly. A number of beautiful homes have been added adjoining the Newlands' and Nixon homes.[236] In the earlier periods many people firmly believed the city would remain entirely on the north side. The ground is level and rich and the mountains protect it from the wind. It was much more desirable as a building site in the opinion

            Not only has Reno become a city of many homes but it is a place of apartment houses as well, giving it a metropolitan air. The Colonial and Stewart were the first of these characteristic structures to be erected.[237] Here again we find that the character of the State as a mining community, while it increases the demand for temporary dwellings in the hotel and apartment, yet does not make for permanent growth of the city. While the mining fever is on the people spend lavishly in the hotels and restaurants but every extra cent is spent for mining stock and not always to reap rewards in the investment either. When the panic of 1907 came the mines were crippled and the bottom dropped out of real estate booming in Reno. For a time there was little building but for the last few years before the war there was a rather slower, steadier growth. The greater development of agriculture, more manufacturing and wholesale trade is giving the city promise as a greater permanent home city. The people in these occupations build homes. The miners very often are men of no homes and the rich capitalists formerly preferred to live in

gines of the steamboats to the pioneers.[238] It is easily reached by auto or by the V. & T. R. R. Bowers' Mansion, famous for its romantic history, is a beautiful picnic spot where bathing pools of mineral water may be enjoyed. It is easily reached by auto or by the V. & T. R. R. Hunter Creek, Alum Creek and the Country Club are also inviting picnic spots. Lake Tahoe, noted for its beauty, as well as Donner, Independence, Weber and Pyramid Lakes are choice places for camping or for a days' outing or fishing.

            Reno is exceedingly fortunate in being located on the Lincoln Highway. Many tourists look forward both coming and going from California to a rest and stopping place for side trips in Reno. Much money is to be spent in improving the Highway. For the branch of the Highway from Reno to Lake Tahoe, twenty-eight miles distant a good road is being completed which will draw many tourists.[239] It is Reno's opportunity to improve all the advantages and advertise these in a practical way in order that people may find rest and recreation of the highest order. Without doubt the chief asset is the Truckee River. More should be made of its scenic features. A boulevard along the river could be easily made extending far into the country. Reno needs playgrounds for the children, a park of sufficient size with flower gardens and the usual attractions.[240] Flower gardens could also be planted along the different streets. The depot should be made more attractive as well as the Plaza. The stranger passing through does not see the beautiful residences of the city. With Mt. Rose always snowcapped, the barren mountains around it with their

            Again, Reno's climatic conditions are usually favorable for the cure of certain diseases.[241] Lung troubles are scarcely known and those that come here with tubercular disease find recovery unless the disease is in an advanced stage. Nevada is said to have more sunshine than any other state. For this reason recovery is more rapid in cases of surgery like appendicitis. Patients here are able to leave the hospital in nine days for the wounds heal in six, whereas in New York two weeks in the hospital is required.[242]

            Perhaps the best feature of Reno's social center is its splendid school advantages. Here the child may begin his education in the kindergarten and complete a very excellent course in the University of Nevada. For in common with the early settlers of other states, the pioneers of Reno recognized that education is the foundation and vital necessity of good citizenship. Not three months after the sale of town lots, a school census was taken in order that a school might be started in the autumn.[243] This school was taught in the basement of Alhambra Hall by Miss Lucy Scott, later Mrs. Richardson. About a dozen children were in attendance in the beginning but the number increased so rapidly that, before the year was over, other teachers, Mrs. Kerwin, and Rev. Ricker were engaged in instructing the older pupils.[244] The first board of education consisted of Mr. Lake, H. B. Cossett and Mr. Arlington.[245] The first school house, the Riverside, was erected on the corner of First and Sierra Streets in December, 1869.[246] But of the structure which was recently torn down only the back part was then built. It had a little lean-to on the west.[247] In this building Mr. and Mrs. Greeley were the first instructors. One of

the earlier teachers here was Mr. Orvis Ring, later State Superintendent of Schools for many years. He taught the higher class in the large room while Miss Frankie Gibbs, one of the advanced pupils, instructed the smaller children in the, lean-to.[248] The High School building was erected in 1879. For its time it was a well built and modern structure and accommodated the grades as well as the High School. Still the old Riverside building continued in use until the new grade schools were completed a few years ago. On the south side, for the benefit of the younger children, a school was rather early maintained in a two-room structure on South Virginia Street. It was later converted into a dwelling house, which recently was destroyed by fire. The present Southside School was built by means of a bond issue in 1903.[249] It is a substantial two-story building but does not now accommodate the number of children in the district. The Southside Fire Station has been purchased for the overflow from this school. The population of the city has increased so rapidly that rented rooms have been used in various wards until new buildings could be erected. In 1908 building bonds were voted for one hundred thousand dollars and in 1910 a subsequent issue of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. From the proceeds of these bonds four new grade buildings and the High School have been erected.[250] The old Central School, where so many Reno men and women spent their school days, was torn down in 1912 to give way for the High School structure. It is in Spanish Renaissance style and provides for five hundred students. All the newer schools are of mission architecture and one story high in order to eliminate

stair climbing. The aims which have controlled in recent school building are : to best conserve health and comfort of pupils and teachers ; to offer facilities for industrial work ; to make the buildings architecturally convenient, attractive and beautiful. Each is equipped with an auditorium, that of the High School being used also as a gymnasium. They all serve the function of social center purposes. The school buildings have been warmly commended by prominent educators, school magazines and the Russell Sage Foundation. The High School offers the usual four years of work to prepare students either for practical work upon graduation or for college and university as a further preparation for life work. The school is accredited to the University of Nevada, the University of California, and West Point. The grade schools are conducted on the usual plan of eight grades offering also manual training and domestic science. Music and art supervisors are employed. A medical inspector visits the schools weekly and a medical record is kept of all pupils.[251]

            The Babcock Memorial Kindergarten, a well planned two-story structure, was financed and erected, in English architectural style, by the Reno Kindergarten Association in 1901 and its use was donated to the public schools. The first teacher, Miss Abbie Nichols, will ever live in the memory of numbers of Reno men and women. A kindergarten for the south side is conducted in the basement of the Southside School.[252]

different times as a dwelling house, a hospital and a school building. Recently the lumber in it was sold and it was torn down. But it was originally built as a seminary and boarding school for girls to fill a real need before the University was located here. To Rt. Rev. Whitaker, Bishop of Nevada, its founding was due. He enlisted the interest of friends in New York who gave liberally. The school was built at a cost of twenty-seven thousand dollars of which Reno people subscribed four thousand dollars.[253] It was a day and boarding school, pupils even coming from other states. Miss Kate A. Sill, a graduate of Vassar College, was its first principal. When the University was established here the school disbanded. But the old Whitaker girls tell many stories of the old school days at Whitaker Hall.[254] Every year they have a reunion on Founder's Day, October 12, to commemorate the beginning of the school, October 12, 1876.

            For a number of years the Dominican Sisters conducted a boarding school for girls called St. Mary's Academy in the building now called the Nevado Hotel.[255] Many girls from all over the State attended the school. The building was in process of erection when the great fire of 1879 occurred. It was partially destroyed but was rebuilt and continued in use for a number of years.[256] A convent where children received a grade education was conducted by the Dominican Sisters for some years in the western part of town.

tained a branch in Reno which is patronized by students from Reno and the surrounding country.[257]

            Even as early as 1865 the preliminary plans were made for a state university in compliance with the Morrill Act which provided for the establishment of an agricultural and mechanical college in Nevada. The first board of Regents, consisting of Governor H. G. Blasdel, Secretary of State Chauncey N. Noteware and State Superintendent Rev. F. A. White, met in November, 1865 to select a suitable location for the University. The principal business of the regents however, for the first ten years, seems to have been taking care of the land grants. But in June, 1873, the Board held a meeting at Walley's Hot Springs, near Genoa, to receive deeds which transferred twenty-one acres of land near Elko from the C. P. R. R. to the State of Nevada for university purposes. Elko erected the building at a cost of twenty thousand dollars. Reno had made a hard fight to have it located here. Mr. B. F. Leete says it was due to the carelessness of the governor in signing the bill to have the university established here that Elko got it.[258] The University while located at Elko ranked only as a district school. There was much agitation looking toward its removal and in 1885 the legislature authorized the change to Reno. Reno agreed to bond herself to reimburse Elko and furnish fifty thousand dollars besides toward the construction of the first building.[259] The site was purchased of J. N. Evans. The first building, Morrill Hall, was erected in 1886. When the University was brought to Reno LeRoy D. Brown of Ohio was placed at its head and he, together with Hannah K. Clapp, the first

professor appointed, constituted the faculty.[260] From these small beginnings our University has come up to take its place with other state universities. In 1894 another president was called from Ohio, Dr. J. E. Stubbs.[261] From that time on the school made great strides. To Dr. Stubbs more than to any other person credit should be given for the University as it is today. With never failing energy for twenty years he labored amid conditions very often discouraging. In 1907 through the efforts of Dr. Stubbs, Clarence Mackay and mother, Mrs. Louise Mackay, gave the Mackay School of Mines, and a statute of John Mackay, the famous Nevada miner, and father and husband of the donors. Besides this they gave the Mackay Athletic Training Quarters and Field. This was the beginning of a new era of development. Eighteen substantial buildings now are on the campus made very attractive by the art of a landscape gardener. Student life is attractive. The cost of living is very moderate. The University will probably never become great in numbers because of the sparse population of the State but it can become great in the efficiency of its graduates to take their places beside those graduates of other universities in the courses in which the university does specialize. Graduates from the School of Mines have taken high salaried positions in the United States and other parts of the world. The people of Reno are indeed prouder of the University than of anything else in their midst.

tions. The first church building erected in Reno was the old Methodist church built in 1870 by the Rev. A. R. Ricker who taught the public school at the same time.[262] The Methodists not only built the first church in Reno but a Methodist minister preached the first sermon. He was the Rev. T. H. McGrath. His remains rest in the Virginia City Cemetery. In the winter of 1869 he located permanently in Reno preaching in the school house. The church was later built on Sierra Street. It is now the back part of the Methodist church which serves as a Sunday School room while the main church built in 1900 faces on Sierra Street. In 1871 Father Merrill built the first Catholic Church in Reno on Lake Street on the lot below the Nevada Hotel, then the convent.[263] This church was destroyed in the great fire of 1879. Then a church was built on the northeast corner of Sixth and Lake Streets. But again fire destroyed this property in October of 1905. On Second Street a beautiful structure was dedicated in June, 1908. But another fire which destroyed Wheelmen Hall almost ruined the adjoining church building. The ashes were not cool from this calamity till steps were taken for the erection of another cathedral, the present church building which is modern and has beautiful furnishings. For a time after the Courthouse was completed, the Episcopalians conducted their services in the court room while waiting for the completion of their church.[264] Bishop Whitaker of Nevada diocese came often until Rev. Lucas was installed as the first rector of the Episcopal church in Reno. The frame building still stands on the corner of Second and Sierra Streets, and a parish house is located on Sierra Street farther

north.[265] Also in the year 1871 a Congregational society was formed by the Rev. A. F. Hitchcock who had previously been the Methodist minister.[266] After resigning the pastorate of the Methodist church he formed and organized the Congregational church on February 19, 1871. Its first church building was on Chestnut Street and has since served as a school and a hospital, and is now a lodging house. Rev. T. H. Magill was the pastor when the present brick building was erected on Fifth and Virginia Streets. Not until 1875 was the Baptist church organized in the Reno Opera House by the Rev. Fisher. In the following January a modest church was begun which was occupied May 7, 1876. This was on Second Street where the Connor Block now stands. This church burned ; then another was erected only to meet the same fate in the fire of 1879. Then the organization built the third structure[267] on the corner of Second and Chestnut Streets. This frame church recently gave way to a modern brick structure in the same location. The Presbyterian people were consolidated with the Congregational until 1902 when the Presbyterians withdrew and formed a church of their own.[268] A lot was given to them on which they erected a modest little frame church. Rev. Samuel Jones was the first pastor. This is still the only church on the south side of the city. The Seventh Day Adventists have a little church on Walnut Street where regular services are conducted. The Christian Science Church has a strong following in Reno. Worship is conducted in the Masonic Temple but a church is to be erected in time on the corner of Virginia and Court Streets. The

Lutherans and the Missionary Alliance[269] also have buildings and hold services. Closely allied to the church is the Young Mens' Christian Association which was organized here in 1910, the first in Nevada. On November 12, 1911, the new building was dedicated. Salvation Army Barracks are located here. The Order conducts street meetings, has an employment agency, and does the usual work of the army.

            The spirit of fraternity and of charity is well developed in Reno. There are many lodges, clubs and societies. Some of these have beautiful buildings which are the pride of the city. The Reno Lodge of Masons was organized January 4, 1869, with a membership of thirty-four. The first meeting was held in a frame building on Virginia Street near the river. Meetings were later held in Alhambra Hall until the lodge built its own hall on the corner of Commercial Row and Sierra Streets.[270] In 1906 a new temple was completed on Virginia Street costing one hundred and twenty thousand dollars. The Knights of Pythias was the next order established here with the I. O. O. F. following. This latter lodge built a hall in 1908 costing one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars,[271] and also owns the R. D. Hartung Orphan Home on First Street. The Elks Home on First Street was built in 1905. The Knights of Columbus were organized more recently. There are many other fraternal organizations which might be mentioned did space permit. The Reno Commercial Club, organized in 1907, has a large membership of all walks of life. Its purpose is to aid

            Where the Federal building now graces the corner of First and Virginia Streets, there stood for many years an old building which more recently was used as Salvation Army Barracks until it was torn down in 1904. It was put up however for a grist mill before the town was in existence but Mr. Lake never used it for that purpose. When the town was built it was used for various things. Alhambra Hall, as it was called, was used for public exercises of all kinds. In the basement school was conducted until the Riverside School was erected ; then a hotel was lodged in the basement. On the first floor was a hall and the half story above served as a lodging house. Many stories are told of experiences here and the entertainments from the first Christmas tree of the city to political meetings which were held in this Hall.[272] Later a small theatre was built called Peter's Theatre. Court was held in this

building in 1871-2 until the Court House was erected. In 1887 the McKissick Theatre was built and continued in use for many years. In recent times several modern structures have taken its place and are used largely for moving pictures. Because of Reno's location on the Southern Pacific R. R. main line theatrical companies going to San Francisco stop in Reno. Very high class entertainments are enjoyed by Reno people. Entertainments and a lyceum lecture course have also been conducted in the High School Auditorium. Moreover, Reno enjoys the great privilege of being on the Chautauqua Circuit. In June 1913 the first Chautauqua was held at Belle Isle. Since then it has become the custom to attend the high class entertainments under the big tent in June of every year.[273]

the paper for several years. Both papers prophesied that the other would die of starvation but still they lived on. The Reno Evening Gazette was established in 1876 by J. F. Alexander. For many years it was published in a building just south of the Golden Eagle Hotel.[274] Now it issues from a modern building on Center Street. Numerous other papers have been started here from time to time but of them only the Nevada Mining Press and the Nevada News Letter remain.

line.[275] Passenger stages run to Loyalton, Portola, Gardnerville, Calpine and Verdi, and freight stages to Minden, Virginia City and Fernley. All points on these lines are served. The stages are well patronized and an extra advantage to the freight stage industry is that the goods are delivered at the stores or directly to their destination. As a trading center Reno handles ten to twenty times the amount of business of the usual city of its size especially in the sale of ready made clothes for women. The mail order business has also increased, the post office receipts averaging six times the usual amount of a city of its size.[276]

            There are twelve auto dealers here and nearly all the leading makes of cars are sold. This is, also, more than in most cities of its size. One half of the total number of cars in the State are in Washoe County.[277]

            The largest agricultural industry on the Newlands, or Truckee-Carson Irrigation Project, is the production of alfalfa hay. This amounts to practically ninety thousand tons. The number of turkeys grown on the project was over twenty-seven thousand last year and will be thirty-three thousand this year. The newest crop, and one that is making the Project famous, is the cantaloupe. During the past four years the well-named "Hearts of Gold" cantaloupe has been grown and exported to a wide market east and west. Dairying is the largest livestock industry. Climatic conditions on the Project are a valuable asset to this industry.[278]

industry of the territory near Reno. The mild and dry climate, freedom from storms or sudden violent changes in the weather favor the dairy industry. Approximately seven thousand cows are being milked, four thousand of these being in Washoe County alone. Several ranches are breeding registered stock and have good herds. The products are disposed of principally within the State and the surplus is sold to eight creameries in California. Washoe County has produced one hundred and fifty-five carloads of potatoes this year and the same number was grown last year. Of this amount about fifteen carloads are consumed locally. Poultry raising is also of increasing importance, there being now about sixty thousand laying hens in the territory adjacent to Reno.[279]

            The United States Government gives aid to the states through the Seven Per Cent Federal System. Under this statute each state is required to designate not less than seven per cent of its total mileage as coordinated with the national highways and with the adjoining states, the whole to be in the system of national highways for which all federal aid loan funds are to be expended.[280] For seventeen miles across the Great Salt Desert in Utah, there is a stretch of bad road which Utah refuses to complete. Instead she bends her energy to diverting travel southwards over the Arrowhead trail from Salt Lake City via Las Vegas to Los Angeles or over the Victory Highway via Wendover.[281] Since Reno is on the line of both the Lincoln and Victory routes, because they use the same road from Wadsworth to Sacramento, the Utah diversion of travel does

            Another plan which is contemplated is the building of baffle board dams in the river which will create an artificial lake for water sports. These dams could be removed in times of high water.[282]

            Idlewild Park is a tract of land forty five to fifty acres about one mile west of the city. It was purchased as a free camping ground for tourists but is to become the largest park of Reno. It is located on the banks of the river with all the natural advantages which such a situation may offer. Additional trees and shrubbery have been planted ; a rustic bridge crosses the pond which has been constructed for a swimming pool and dressing rooms have been built for the swimmers. A zoo has been started with some antelope and several varieties of fowl, among them some rare Canadian ducks. Immediate enlargement of the zoo is contemplated. A swimming and playground instructor is employed for the summer months. Two policemen are detailed for this park. A large Civic Auditorium is a recognized need of the city. Idlewild Park is mentioned as the probable location of such a building to be erected at a not far distant time. Another contemplated plan includes the erection of a fish hatchery and a green house, the first to be built in conjunction with the county.[283]

streets or two hundred and ninety nine square blocks which is more than any other city of its size in the United States.[284] It may well be proud of its well paved streets and beautiful homes. Because of its attractive setting it is fitting that all of its citizens should strive to build on its natural advantages into a city beautiful in every way.

tice of other modern cities, and marks a distinct line of development in our progress. It was a step which was much needed. The Commercial district includes Virginia Street south to the Courthouse and north to Fifth Street between University Avenue and Sierra Street. The eastern and western boundaries are irregular, however. The industrial section is bounded on the west by Evans Avenue and runs east indefinitely. It extends from the river on the south to Sixth Street on the north.[285]

            The total enrollment for the semester opening September 2, 1924 in the Reno public schools was two thousand four hundred and ninety-seven pupils.[286] Of this number one hundred and seven are in the Kindergarten, one thousand four hundred and ninety in the grades, five hundred and

            The first Young Woman's Christian Association for a town in Nevada was organized in Reno in 1920. The City Council generously have donated the basement of the City Hall to the organization rent free and this will be used until a suitable building can be erected. The Red Cross Hut and the Crittenden Home are two other organizations that care for the needs of women.[287]

from one place to another is easily made. Since laws of different states vary on the subject of divorce, embarrassment and discredit may arise for those who move from one state to another after having been divorced. Nearly all good citizens recognize that reform is necessary and that uniform marriage and divorce laws should be passed. Some very noted people have lived in Reno for divorce purposes. Many have come who have lived quietly and brought no discredit to themselves or to the city, while others, fewer in number, and many times a disgrace to their own State, have brought unwholesome notoriety to this city. Often their real purpose for coming has been camouflaged under the name "divorcee". Many have come and have remained. They have added notably to the development of the community along better lines. Perhaps their presence has not limited others from coming to become permanent residents as some have thought. Doubtless many who would otherwise have located in Nevada have been deterred for economic rather than social reasons.[288] Promise of larger material support is needed in order to induce population to flow this way.

            The crime record of the State and City are very low. The juvenile crime record is the lowest in the United States. Y. M. C. A. workers and those interested in work for boys state that they find the lads unusually intelligent and of good character.[289]

            Statement of : Henry Anderson, Dr. Romanzo Adams, Dr. B. D. Billinghurst, F. A. Bonham, D. B. Boyd,[290] Thos. A. Buckman, Dr. Walter E. Clark, Wm. David, John C. Durham, Alvaro Evans, Robert L. Fulton, Mrs. Carrie Harris, Rev. G. B. Hinkle, S. M. Jameson, Lyle Jameson, S. Jacobs, L. E. Kline, B. F. Leete, Robt. Lewers, Geo. W. Mapes, John H. Morse, Geo. A. Raymer, Mayor E. E. Roberts, Prof. V. E. Scott, Mrs. Susan Stith, Mrs. Florence Thompson, E. H. Walker, Rev. F. M. Willis, E. E. Winfrey.