Category: People

Charles W Friend House, Observatory, and Weather Station

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Charles W Friend was a scientist and astronomer who resided in Carson City, Nevada for forty years. The site of his home honors Friend with Nevada State Historical Marker number 258.

Charles W. Friend built an observatory into his house on Stewart Street, between Carson and Musser. Here you can see the V&T Railroad tracks running along Stewart Street in the foreground.
Charles W. Friend built an observatory into his house on Stewart Street, between Carson and Musser. Here you can see the V&T Railroad tracks running along Stewart Street in the foreground.
Charles W Friend was an early weatherman in Carson City. Here he is posing inside the observatory he built at the corner of King and Stewart Streets. He is posing next to his telescope.
Charles W Friend was an early weatherman in Carson City. Here he is posing inside the observatory he built at the corner of King and Stewart Streets. He is posing next to his telescope.

Born in Prussia on July 7th 1835, Charles Friend migrated from the old county to Folsome, California with his father during the California gold rush. Friend apprenticed as a jeweler and optician before moving to Carson City in 1867.

Between 1875 and 1876, Friend constructed the first Observatory in Nevada at his house on Stewart street, in Carson City. Utilizing the help of Nevada’s U.S. Senator William Stewart, Friend obtained a six-inch equatorial mount telescope and other instruments from the U. S Naval Academy.

Friend outfitted his observatory with a series of weather observations instruments, including rain gauges, thermometers, barometers an anemometer to measure wind speed. He took great care to ensure that all of his scientific instruments were properly calibrated and that his observations were as accurate as possible.

“All the thermometers are placed in an instrument shelter, made of lattice blinds and projecting 20 inches from a large pane of glass in the north wall of the observatory, 12 inches from the window and at the height of the eye of the observer. The thermometers are placed on wooden bars one inch square, and while there is free access of air to the shelter, all radiant heat and rain or snow are effectually excluded.”

Friend recorded observational readings from his instruments daily at 7 am, 2 pm and 9 pm to compile a climate record of Carson City.  His observations were forwarded to the U. S. Army’s Signal Office.

Nevada State Historic Marker 259 Text

Charles W. Friend House, Observatory, and Weather Station

This is the site of the house and observatory of Nevada’s first weatherman, astronomer, and seismologist, Charles William Friend.  Born in Prussia in 1835, Friend immigrated by way of South America to California during the 1849 Gold Rush.  In 1867, he moved from Folsom to Carson City where he set up his own jewelery and optical store.

Friend built Nevada’s first observatory located southwest of his house and east of the Nevada State Capitol.  Nevada’s U.S. Senator William Stewart helped him obtain the use of a six-inch equatorial mount telescope and other instruments from the federal government.

Charles Friend also established Nevada’s first weather service.  In 1887, the Nevada Legislature passed authorization for a weather service station in Carson City.  Friend became its director and created volunteer weather stations throughout the state.  He compiled the data into reports that are still referenced today.

Charles W. Friend died in 1907.  Since his death, the Association of Weather Services has recognized him as a pioneer in weather service west of the Rockies.

STATE HISTORIC MARKER No. 258
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE, NEVADA STATE MUSEUM, THE BRETZLAFF FOUNDATION,
NEVADA STATE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES, THE CARSON CITY HERITAGE COALITION
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS

Nevada State Historic Marker 259 Map

Nevada State Historic Marker 259 Summary

NameCharles W. Friend House, Observatory, and Weather Station
LocationCarson City, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.1642, -119.7637
Nevada State Historic Marker258

Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

References

Dat-So-La-Lee – Nevada State Historic Marker 77

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Dat-So-La-Lee, also known as Louisa Keyser, was a remarkable Native American basket weaver born around 1829 in the Washoe tribe territory near Carson City, Nevada. She is renowned for her exceptional craftsmanship and intricate designs, which elevated Washoe basketry to an art form admired worldwide. Dat-So-La-Lee’s grave is the subject of Nevada State Historical Marker 77, located in Carson City, Nevada.

Photo courtesy North Lake Tahoe Historical Society Dat So La Lee created baskets of willow, using a three rod coiling technique. Many of her baskets were degikup baskets, that start with a small circular base, then coils outward to a larger circumference, twining back in to a top about the same size as the bottom.

Growing up in a traditional Washoe community, Dat-So-La-Lee learned the ancient art of basket weaving from her mother and grandmother, who were esteemed weavers themselves. From a young age, she displayed a natural talent and a keen eye for detail, quickly mastering the intricate techniques of her ancestors.

Throughout her life, Dat-So-La-Lee dedicated herself to perfecting her craft, spending countless hours gathering materials from the surrounding landscape and weaving them into exquisite baskets. She incorporated traditional Washoe designs and motifs, often inspired by nature, into her work, infusing each piece with cultural significance and symbolism.

Dat-So-La-Lee’s baskets gained widespread recognition for their exceptional quality and beauty. They were sought after by collectors and enthusiasts from around the world, with some of her pieces fetching high prices at auctions and exhibitions. Her reputation as a master weaver grew steadily, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest Native American basket makers of her time.

Despite facing numerous challenges and hardships throughout her life, including the encroachment of settlers on traditional Washoe lands and the decline of traditional basketry practices, Dat-So-La-Lee remained steadfast in her dedication to her craft. She continued to weave until late in her life, preserving and revitalizing Washoe basketry traditions for future generations.

Dat-So-La-Lee’s legacy endures to this day, not only through her exquisite baskets but also through the influence she had on subsequent generations of Native American basket weavers. Her work has been celebrated in museums and galleries worldwide, serving as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Washoe people and the enduring power of artistic expression.

Nevada State Historic Marker 77

Dat-So-La-Lee

Famed Washoe basket maker, Datsolalee, is buried in this cemetery along with many other Washoe weavers.  Also known as Louisa Keyser.  Dat So La Lee, and Dabuda, over 120 of her major documented baskets were made expressly for sale to Arts and Crafts collectors from 1895 until her death in 1925 under patronage of the Cohn family.  Datsolalee’s baskets are prized by collectors and displayed in museums across the country.

Utilitarian, straight-walled, decorated coiled willow basketry is a Washoe tradition extending back thousands of years.  Datsolalee brought international fame to the spherical Washoe degikup willow basket and highlighted the form with innovative decorative motifs in bracken fern and redbud Fibers.  She and her patrons promoted this craft to the public, elevated it to an art form, and, most importantly, motivated basketry production by other tribal members during a period when the Washoe were recovering from mid-nineteenth- century loss of their homelands and aboriginal life ways.

STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO. 77
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
RENO CHAPTER, DAUGHTER OF THE AMERICAN COLONISTS
AND
IN RECOGNITION OF THE INVALUABLE ASSISTANCE OF THE WASHOE INDIANS

Nevada State Historic Marker 77 Map

Nevada State Historic Marker 77 Summary

NameDat-So-La-Lee
LocationCarson City, Nevada
Longitude, Latitude39.1181, -119.7545
Nevada State Historical Marker77

Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

References

Governor Emmet Derby Boyle

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Governor Emmet Derby Boyle (1879-1926), the first native-born governor of Nevada, serving from 1915-1923.  He is honored with Nevada State Historic Marker number 265.

Governor Emmet Derby Boyle (July 26, 1879 – January 3, 1926)
Governor Emmet Derby Boyle (July 26, 1879 – January 3, 1926)

Boyle was born on July 26, 1879, in Gold Hill, Nevada. After graduating the University of Nevada in 1889 he worked as a mining engineer. Emmet Boyle is elected to the governors office at the young age of thirty-five. As such, he is the youngest elected to the office, the first elected born in Nevada, and the first graduate from the University of Nevada. As governor and a strong supporter of women’s rights, Boyle called the Nevada Legislature into special session in 1920 to ratify the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution granting women the right to vote.

Nevada State Historic Marker 265 Text

Eight grave sites to the north rests Emmet Derby Boyle (1879-1926), the first native-born governor of Nevada, serving from 1915-1923.  Born in Goldhill, Boyle was also the first graduate of the University of Nevada to become governor.  At thirty-five, he was the youngest person to hold the state’s highest office.

Governor Emmet Boyle worked on Nevada’s water laws and introduced the state’s first executive budget.  A strong supporter of women’s rights, Boyle called the Nevada Legislature into special session in 1920 to ratify the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution granting women the right to vote.

Emmet Boyle died on January 3, 1926 and is buried next to his wife Vida McClure Boyle who he married in 1903.

NEVADA STATE HISTORICAL MARKER No. 265
NEVADA STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
CHRIS DRIGGS, NEVADA STATE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES
TOM SWART, HISTORY ADVOCATE
RENO LODGE, NO. 13 F. & A.M.

Nevada State Historic Marker 265 Map

Nevada State Historic Marker 265 Summary

NameGovernor Emmet Derby Boyle
LocationWashoe County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.5253, -119.8449
Nevada State Historic Marker265

Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

References

Frederick Joseph DeLongchamps

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Frederic Joseph DeLongchamps ( June 2, 1882 – February 11, 1969 ) was Nevada’s premier architect during his life, and honored as the subject of Nevada State Historic Marker 245.

Biography

Frederick Joseph DeLongchamps - June 2, 1882 – February 11, 1969 - [UNRS-P1989-09-115] Special Collections and University Archives Department, University of Nevada, Reno
Frederick Joseph DeLongchamps – June 2, 1882 – February 11, 1969 – [UNRS-P1989-09-115] Special Collections and University Archives Department, University of Nevada, Reno

Born on February 2, 1882, in Nevada City, California, Frederick Joseph DeLongchamps would emerge as one of the most influential architects in the history of Nevada. His remarkable career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of the American West.

Early Life and Education

Frederick DeLongchamps was the son of French immigrant parents who settled in California during the Gold Rush era. Raised in a family with a deep appreciation for art and culture, young Frederick exhibited a keen interest in architecture from an early age. He pursued his passion by studying architectural drafting and design, eventually enrolling in the prestigious Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, France, where he honed his skills under the guidance of renowned architects.

Architectural Career

Upon returning to the United States, DeLongchamps settled in Nevada, where he would establish himself as a preeminent architect. His early projects showcased a mastery of diverse architectural styles, ranging from Beaux-Arts to Spanish Revival, reflecting his eclectic sensibilities and adaptability.

DeLongchamps’ career reached new heights in the early 20th century when he was commissioned to design several iconic buildings that would come to define the architectural identity of Nevada. Among his most notable works is the Nevada State Capitol in Carson City, a majestic edifice that blends classical design elements with modern functionality. Completed in 1915, the Capitol remains a testament to DeLongchamps’ vision and skill.

In addition to the Capitol, DeLongchamps left his mark on numerous other landmarks across Nevada, including courthouses, schools, and commercial buildings. His portfolio includes the Riverside Hotel in Reno, the Washoe County Courthouse, and the historic Reno Arch, an enduring symbol of the city’s vibrant spirit.

Legacy and Influence

Frederick Joseph DeLongchamps’ contributions to the architectural heritage of Nevada are immeasurable. His designs not only captured the essence of their time but also laid the groundwork for future generations of architects. DeLongchamps’ legacy extends beyond his architectural achievements; he was also a passionate advocate for historic preservation and urban planning.

Throughout his career, DeLongchamps remained committed to his craft, embracing innovation while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the American West. His legacy continues to inspire architects and enthusiasts alike, reminding us of the transformative power of architecture to shape communities and evoke a sense of place.

Frederick Joseph DeLongchamps passed away on February 20, 1969, leaving behind a legacy that endures through the timeless beauty of his architectural creations. Today, his buildings stand as monuments to his vision and serve as a lasting tribute to his enduring influence on the architectural landscape of Nevada.

Nevada State Historic Marker 245

Frederic Joseph DeLongchamps was Nevada’s foremost architect of his time.  Statewide, he was prolific in the number of buildings he designed.  From this point, one can see a group of structures that stand, collectively, as a monument to DeLongchamps:  the United State Post Office, the Riverside Hotel, the Washoe County Courthouse and the Reno National Bank Building.  The Northern Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, dedicated to excellence in architecture, honors the memory of Frederic Joseph DeLongchamps

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STATE HISTORICAL MARKER No. 245
DIVISION OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION & ARCHEOLOGY
NORTHERN CHAPTER: AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS

Nevada State Historic Marker 245 Map

Nevada State Historic Marker 245 Summary

NameFrederic Joseph DeLongchamps
LocationCarson City, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.5251, -119.8124
Nevada State Historic Marker245

Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

References

Jedediah Strong Smith – Nevada State Historic Marker 84

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Jebediah Strong Smith was an early frontiersman, hunter, trapper, author, cartographer, mountain man and explorer of the western United States and the subject of Nevada State Historic Marker number 84.

Drawing of Jedediah Strong Smith (1799–1831), created around 1835 after his death by a friend from memory. It is the only contemporary image of Smith.
Drawing of Jedediah Strong Smith (1799–1831), created around 1835 after his death by a friend from memory. It is the only contemporary image of Smith.

Born in 1799 in Jericho, New York, Jedediah Strong Smith would grow up to become one of the most significant figures in the exploration of the American West during the early 19th century. His life was a testament to the indomitable spirit of discovery that characterized the era of westward expansion.

From a young age, Jebediah Smith exhibited an insatiable curiosity and an adventurous spirit that set him apart from his peers. Raised in a family of modest means, he received only limited formal education. However, his voracious appetite for learning and his natural inclination for exploration propelled him beyond the confines of the classroom.

Fur Trapping and the Path to the West

At the age of 21, Smith embarked on his first western expedition as a fur trapper, a career choice that would shape the course of his life. He joined the Rocky Mountain Fur Company and ventured into the untamed wilderness of the Rocky Mountains, determined to carve his own path in uncharted territories. His experiences during this period honed his survival skills and deepened his connection to the natural world.

The First Overland Expedition to California:

In 1826, Smith led a pioneering expedition that would take him and his small band of explorers on an arduous journey from the Great Salt Lake to California. This remarkable feat marked the first documented overland journey from the United States into California. Smith’s exploration helped to map previously unknown regions and establish crucial trade routes.

Mapping the West and Bridging Cultures

Jebediah Smith’s exploration efforts were not limited to geography alone. His interactions with various Native American tribes and his ability to communicate across cultural divides showcased his adaptability and diplomacy. He valued the knowledge and insights of the indigenous peoples he encountered, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the American West.

Jebediah Strong Smith’s legacy is imprinted on the landscapes he traversed and the narratives he helped to shape. His meticulous journaling and mapping laid the groundwork for further expeditions, encouraging subsequent generations of explorers to continue pushing the boundaries of the known world. Smith’s untimely death at the hands of Comanche warriors in 1831, at the age of 32, underscored the risks and sacrifices inherent in his chosen path.

Jebediah Strong Smith’s life epitomized the restless spirit of exploration that defined the era of westward expansion in the United States. His contributions to mapping the American West, fostering cross-cultural connections, and inspiring future adventurers are enduring testaments to his remarkable journey. As a trailblazer who ventured into the unknown with courage and determination, Smith’s legacy continues to inspire individuals to seek new horizons and embrace the thrill of discovery.

Jedediah Strong Smith Nevada State Historic Marker 84 Text

Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.

From May to June 1827, explorer and trapper Jedediah Smith found a route from California’s central valley to the Great Salt Lake Valley in Utah.  He became the first European American to completely cross what is now Nevada.

Because Smith’s journal and map have never been found, his exact route is unknown.  Based on Smith’s own statements about his difficult trip, modern historians and geographers have pieced together the most plausible route.  Smith crossed the Sierra Nevada at Ebbetts Pass, swung southeast along or across the headwaters and middle reaches of the Walker River, and passed into central Nevada’s open spaces south of Walker Lake.

Smith entered Smoky Valley on its southwest side in June 1827 and crossed the valley in a northeasterly direction.  He then paralleled the future Simpson survey, route of the Pony Express and Overland Stage, along modern U.S. Highway 50.

He entered Utah at Ibapah.

STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO.  84
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
WHITE PINE PUBLIC MUSEUM, INC.

Nevada State Historic Marker 84 Map

Nevada State Historic Marker number 84 is located near Ely, Nevada, in White Pine County. The marker is on U.S. Highway 93, on the east side of the highway. It is found in rest area, four miles north of Ely. 

Nevada State Historic Marker 84 Summary

NamedJedediah Strong Smith
LocationWhite Pine County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.2771, -114.8463
Nevada State Historic Marker84

References