Nevada Day revisited: 1967 & 1971

Editor’s Note: This continues a series featuring the Appeal’s coverage of past Nevada Days.

Reprinted from the Nov. 1, 1967, Nevada Appeal:

Carson Street was packed with spectators as the state topped a five-day 103rd birthday celebration with the annual Admission Day parade.

One of the largest crowds ever was on hand as horses and riders, floats, bands, and politicians turned out under bright sunny skies to participate in the festivities.

“Youth and Patriotism” was the parade theme, with Miss Vicki Landeck, Miss Nevada 1967-68, as grand marshal.

A giant float from Mineral County, entitled Cecil the Sea Serpent, won the special award in the big parade which lasted two and a quarter hours. Among the other top prizes, Bethlehem Lutheran church of Carson City with an entry entitled “True to God and our country” which won first place in the general float category.

The Carson City Chamber of Commerce won first prize on its entry with Miss Carson City and her attendants seated on a float bearing a giant globe, and the Carson Rotary Club won first place in the service club category. Other local first place winner included the Carson Eagles Club, Carson Nugget, Tropics Pet Shop, Bell of Nevada and the Stewart Indian School float.

Elko High School band was awarded for travelling the farthest. Highlights of the parade included pretty girls, marching bands, old-time automobiles, mounted groups, dignitaries and assorted floats.

One popular entry was missing from previous parades — a colorful float with a band and dancing girls from Harrah’s Club. Officials of the parade said they were told by Harrah’s representatives that the club is cutting back on expenses and couldn’t afford the entry this year.

A band concert, art exhibit, Indian festival, whisker contest, carnival rides and stock car races capped the activities.

Nevada Highway Department figures show 31,352 vehicles came into Ormsby County Oct. 31, a sum which added to the estimated 15,200 residents, makes 46,552.