The Oldest Town In Nevada That Everyone Should Visit At Least Once

It became the first capital of the Nevada Territory in 1861, although later the same year the capital was moved to Carson City. In 1864 Nevada became a state of the Union and Genoa became its first town.

The Douglas County Courthouse was first built in 1865 but was severely damaged in a fire in 1910. The fire was started by a resident of the county poor house. He tried to get rid of bed bugs and accidentally set his straw mattress on fire, which spread quickly through the town. The courthouse was rebuilt in the same year. In 1916 the County decided to move the court to Minden. The Genoa courthouse building became an elementary school until 1956. It has served since then as a historical museum. The museum's main emphasis is on the history and culture of the Washoe people, as well as pioneer life.

Snowshoe Thompson was a Norwegian who introduced the sport of skiing to the western territories. His major role was to deliver mail between Placerville, CA and Genoa and eventually Virginia City, NV. He used cross country skis to do this, despite his "snowshoe" nickname. He is buried in the Genoa Cemetery and commemorated with this statue.

This area is known for the distinct late Victorian architecture of the buildings. The town has a population of about 250 people who still live and work in these older homes and businesses.

This tradition began in 1919, when residents of the town made homemade candy and held a dance to raise funds for repairs for some street lights. The arts and crafts festival was added on later, and now this well-attended event raises money for the town government.

The Genoa Bar is known as "Nevada's Oldest Thirst Parlor." Famous patrons include Mark Twain, Teddy Roosevelt and Johhny Cash. The saloon has also been used in some old Western films.

The movie Misery used the town as its set, although the film crew doubled the size of the town by adding fake buildings, which were removed once filming was over.

The Mormon Station Memorial State Park Museum preserves the history of the Mormons who first settled Genoa in 1851. Other historical places, including the Courthouse Museum, are the Genoa Cemetery and the Hanging Tree. There's even a historic ghost tour! Another favorite location is Walley's Hot Springs, which was founded in 1862 and is the earliest hot springs resort in the state.