Each of Nevada’s towns and cities has its own unique stories, statistics, and fun facts. Some places that were once small towns are now bustling cities, whereas there are once-thriving (although sometimes short-lived) little cities that have become virtual ghost towns. I think you’ll agree that it can be incredibly interesting to learn the bits of history that make a place unique, and the various “claims to fame” that exist around this state. Take, for example, these old-time celebrities from Nevada and its small towns.

1. Doris Dawson - Goldfield

Doris Dawson was a silent film actress born in Goldfield, Nevada, in 1905 when the town was booming. Her first role in a film was in “The Arizona Night” in 1927. She starred in at least 13 other silent films in about two years, including “Broadway Scandals.” When sound films began to be produced, Dawson’s career suffered because she apparently did not have a pleasant voice. She made one last film in 1934, “The Silver Streak,” before retiring at age 29.

2. Brad Dexter - Goldfield

Brad Dexter was born Boris Michel Soso in 1917, also in the town of Goldfield. He was an actor and film producer known especially for his Western and tough-guy kind of roles, including his most famous role in the 1960 film, “The Magnificent Seven,” which also starred Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, and James Coburn. Dexter produced the famous film “Lady Sings the Blues,” was married for a short time to singer Peggy Lee, was friends with Marilyn Monroe, and once saved Frank Sinatra’s life.

3. Hobart Cavanaugh - Virginia City

Stage and film actor Hobart Cavanaugh was born in 1886 in Virginia City. He worked in vaudeville appeared in several Broadway musicals and acted in over 180 films during his lifetime. He appeared in the 1935 version of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Never Say Die” in 1939, and as Tim Gross in the 1950 film, “Stella,” his final film role.

4. Ben Alexander - Goldfield

Nicholas Benton “Ben” Alexander III was known for playing Officer Frank Smith in the radio, television, and film franchise, “Dragnet.” Alexander was born in Goldfield in 1911 and started acting as a child. He received recognition for his work in the World War I classic film, “All Quiet on the Western Front,” and years later he played Sergeant Dan Briggs on the weekly television series, “Felony Squad” on the ABC network. Alexander also acted in one episode of the 1966 Batman television series. In total, he appeared in over 80 films.

5. Carrie Ward Clark - Virginia City

Born in the charming and walkable town of Virginia City in 1862, Carri Clark Ward was a well-known actress during the silent film era. She shared the screen with many other well-known stars and appeared in over 60 films by the year 1925. She married actor-comedian James Ward and died in Hollywood, California, in 1926.

6. Dawn Wells - Reno

Famous for her role as MaryAnn Summers on the television series “Gilligan’s Island,” Dawn Wells had a long and diverse acting career. She was born in 1938 in Reno, back when “The Biggest Little City in the World” was still a rural town full of horse ranches and, interestingly enough, known as the “divorce capital of the world.”. In addition to acting, Wells was crowned Miss Nevada in 1959 and competed in the 1960 Miss America pageant, representing Nevada.

These natives of Nevada’s small towns were once household names, well-known for their acting. Have you heard of all of them? Did you know they were from the Silver State? We would love to hear about other celebrities that you know who come from this state’s small towns. Speaking of which, check out these 12 charming small towns worth a visit. And if you plan on visiting any of Nevada's small towns, make it a getaway and book a stay at a vacation rental on Vrbo.

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