Minden Elementary School
a.k.a. Minden Grammer School
1638 Mono Ave., Minden, NV Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Nevada became a state during the American Civil War: Nevada was admitted to the Union on October 31, 1864, making it the 36th state. It was the first state to be admitted during Abraham Lincoln's presidency and was created to support the Union cause during the Civil War.
During the mid-1800s, the discovery of gold and silver in the neighboring Comstock Lode in Virginia City brought an influx of miners to the region. As a result, small settlements began to emerge in what is now Douglas County. The influx of settlers led to the establishment of the county in 1861 as an area separate from nearby Carson County. Named after Stephen A. Douglas, a U.S. Senator from Illinois, the county became a hub for mining activity and attracted further growth.
The 20th century marked a significant shift in Douglas County's economy. With the decline of mining, the region transitioned to agriculture, primarily focusing on cattle ranching and farming. The Carson Valley, located in the southern portion of the county, became known for its fertile soil and ideal climate, making it a prime location for agricultural activities. The county's natural beauty and proximity to Lake Tahoe also led to the development of a tourism industry, further diversifying the local economy.
Over the years, Douglas County has experienced population growth and urbanization. The county seat, Minden, and the nearby town of Gardnerville have become increasingly developed, while retaining their small-town charm. The growth has brought improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to the county, making it an attractive place to live and visit. Today, Douglas County continues to thrive as a vibrant community offering a mix of outdoor recreational opportunities, a rich cultural heritage, and a high quality of life for its residents.
Douglas County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Douglas County, Nevada.
- 1861: Douglas County is established on November 25, as an original county of the Nevada Territory.
- 1862: The county seat is established in Genoa, making it the first permanent settlement in Nevada.
- 1864: Nevada becomes a state on October 31, and Douglas County becomes one of the original nine counties of the state.
- 1886: The town of Minden is founded as a trading post and railroad stop.
- 1906: The formation of the Bureau of Reclamation's Newlands Project leads to the construction of Lahontan Dam and Reservoir.
- 1910: The town of Gardnerville becomes the new county seat, replacing Genoa.
- 1958: The Heavenly Ski Resort opens in the Sierra Nevada Mountains near South Lake Tahoe.
- 1980: The Nevada Legislature designates part of Douglas County as the Lake Tahoe Township.
- 1997: The Douglas County Public Library opens in Minden, providing educational resources to the community.
- 2003: Douglas County celebrates its 150th anniversary with various events and activities.