150 Years Ago
Removal of the capital: The Reese River Reveille is anxious to have the state capital moved to Austin. It is the most central place and will become the “hub” of Nevada, “if not the universe.”
130 Years Ago
Advertisement: “Home at Reno — 200 lots for sale — The manager of the Lake estate, in order to enhance the value of the property of the estate, as well as assist in ‘Building up the town of Reno,’ is selling lots. The proposed site is immediately south of the Truckee River, and its elevation affords a magnificent view of the valley and town near at hand. Its elevation assures a perfect system of sewerage. Gas mains will be laid through the streets free of cost. Wm. Thompson, Reno, Nev.”
110 Years Ago
Hy Downs: The efficient watchman at the Lakeview tunnel came down to replenish his larder. Some time ago a stranger came to his harbor (home) at the tunnel at Lakeview and in turn for a square meal and kind treatment showed Hy a new scheme. The stranger had a number of small pellets that contained a strange powder that contained “condensed vigor.” A man taking one could walk all day and fatigue never overcame him. Ollie Tennant took one and never tired on a duck hunt for three days, walking from the tunnel to Winters’ barn and back. (Continued on Friday).
70 Years Ago
PEO Sisterhood speaker Walter Wilson: An inspiring talk was given by Dr. Walter Wilson. He was introduced by Mrs. Linda van der Smissen. Dr. Walter Wilson was a member of the Orphans’ home family for 10 years. Since that time he has earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree and spent several years as a college professor and lecturer in the east. Dr. Wilson related a short history of the home since the founding in 1870. He stressed the importance of having a guidance director to help with the splendid work the Van der Smissens are now doing.
50 Years Ago
Advertisement: “Century 21 movies, Reno — The Dino de Laurentis production of ‘The Bible ... in the Beginning.’”
20 Years Ago
First Presbyterian Church, Virginia City: The Church was formed in 1862 and dedicated July 7, 1867. The cost of building was $4,700, and it maintains the minister’s salary through property rental adjacent to the church. In 1873 the church had 209 communicant members, in 1997 it has 32. Dorothy Thompson took over the ministry in 1992, the first female minister in the history of the Virginia City church.
Sue Ballew is the daughter of Bill Dolan, who wrote this column for the Nevada Appeal from 1947 until his death in 2006.
