Every Nevadan should know that our wonderful state first gained its statehood in 1864. Of course, people existed and lived in the Nevada territory long before that. In fact, our state’s very first territory was settled in 1851…a full 13 years before statehood! This “territory” is still very much alive and doing well. Even if the population remains small, there are still people that live there to this day. And it’s these people alone that can claim that they live in the oldest place in Nevada. How amazing is that?
Welcome to the oldest place in Nevada! Genoa was first settled in 1851 and has been going strong ever since. This little town is proud of its Western roots, and it makes for an awesome day trip for history enthusiasts and lovers of all-things-Nevada.
You'll find Genoa at the base of the Sierra Nevadas approximately an hour south of Reno. The vibrant town contains a unique historic charm that enchants you from the moment you step into town. It feels like a little oasis in the desert.
If you want to engage in Genoa's fascinating beginnings, you'll definitely want to stop by Mormon Station Memorial State Park. Now this is technically the oldest place in Nevada since it commemorates the first permanent trading post established in the state.
In 1851, a group of Mormon traders were on their way to California from Salt Lake City. When they got to the Carson Valley, they reckoned this was a pretty good spot to set up a trading post to sell supplies to other emigrants headed west. It's incredible to think that Genoa blossomed from this small trading post!
The original trading post burned down in 1910. However, you can view a replica of the trading post to this day at the park, along with a small museum. The museum contains all sorts of cool pioneer-era artifacts that are worth checking out.
The museum is located in a small log cabin. Here you can learn all about the importance of the trading post to traveling pioneers. For many people, this place was like a haven where they could stock up on supplies and refresh their animals before continuing their journey to Calfornia.
Afterwards, you can walk across the street and have a refreshing beverage at Nevada's oldest saloon. Built just two years after Genoa's settlement, this legendary bar looks straight out of the Wild West.
Despite being a small town, there is plenty to do and see in Genoa. The town's main street is incredibly attractive and makes for a nice afternoon stroll through the variety of shops.
It doesn't look like many things have changed around Genoa over the years, and that's what makes it one of the best places to visit in Nevada. Who knows what Nevada would look like today if Genoa has never existed?
