Storey County

Storey County is a county located in the western part of the U.S. state of Nevada. It is situated in the northwestern region of the state, adjacent to the California border, and is part of the Reno-Sparks Metropolitan Area. The county has a population of approximately 4,000 people and covers an area of 264 square miles.

"Mining on the Comstock", depicting the headframes and mills of the various mines, and mining technology used at Comstock, most prominently the method of square-set timbering developed there to work the veins. -T.L. Dawes (drawing); Le Count Bros., San Fransisco (lithographers)
“Mining on the Comstock”, depicting the headframes and mills of the various mines, and mining technology used at Comstock, most prominently the method of square-set timbering developed there to work the veins. -T.L. Dawes (drawing); Le Count Bros., San Fransisco (lithographers)

One of the main attractions of Storey County is its rich mining history. The county was one of the major mining areas during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and its boomtowns were home to many famous mines, such as the Comstock Lode. Visitors to the area can still see the remnants of these mines and learn about the history of mining in the region by visiting the Comstock Mining and Historical Museum, the Virginia City National Historic Landmark, and other historic sites in the area.

In addition to its mining history, Storey County also offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. The county is home to several parks and trails, including the Virginia City Trails System and the Gold Hill Trailhead, which offer hiking, biking, and equestrian opportunities. The Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway, a 116-mile trail that runs from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake, also passes through the county.

One of the unique features of Storey County is its vibrant arts community. The county is home to a number of galleries and studios, including the St. Mary’s Art Center and the Courthouse Gallery in Virginia City, which showcase the works of local artists. The annual Virginia City International Camel Races, held in September, also attract thousands of visitors to the area and provide a fun and quirky cultural experience.

Despite its small size, Storey County has a growing economy, with a focus on technology and manufacturing. The Tahoe Reno Industrial Center, located in the county, is one of the largest industrial parks in the world and is home to several major companies, including Tesla, Google, and Switch. The county also has a thriving tourism industry, with visitors coming to explore its history, natural beauty, and unique cultural offerings.

Storey County offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy, from its rich mining history and outdoor recreation opportunities to its vibrant arts community and growing economy. Whether you’re looking to learn about the region’s past, enjoy its natural beauty, or experience its quirky culture, Storey County has something to offer.

Nevada State Historic Markers

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. Budget cuts the program became dormant in 2009.
William A G Brown - Owner of the Boston Saloon, Virginia City, Nevada

African Americans and the Boston Saloon – Nevada State Historic Marker

William A G Brown - Owner of the Boston Saloon, Virginia City, Nevada African Americans and the Boston Saloon - NSHM #266 is a Nevada…
"Mining on the Comstock", depicting the headframes and mills of the various mines, and mining technology used at Comstock, most prominently the method of square-set timbering developed there to work the veins. -T.L. Dawes (drawing); Le Count Bros., San Fransisco (lithographers)

Chollar Mine – Nevada State Historic Marker

The Chollar Mine is a historic gold mine and Nevada State Historic Marker Number 209, located in Virginia City, Nevada, United States. The mine was…
Piper's Opera House, one of the largest venues for theater and performance on the Comstock. - - University of California, Davis. Dept. of Special Collections.

Piper’s Opera House – Nevada State Historic Marker

Piper’s Opera House is Nevada State Historic Marker #235 and is located in Virginia City, Storey County Nevada. This building, the most significant vintage theatre…
Samuel Langhorne Clemens September 1-2, 1867, Pera, Constantinople

Samuel Langhorne Clemens – “Mark Twain”

Before he wrote American classic novels as Mark Twain, Samuel Langhorne Clemens was a miner and newpaper reporter in Mineral County, Nevada. Prior to picking…
Savage Mansion, Virginia City, Nevada

Savage Mansion – Nevada State Historic Marker

Savage Mansion is Nevada State Historic Marker #87 and located in Historic Virginia City, Storey County, Nevada. Virginia City is a wonderful little town to…
"Mining on the Comstock", depicting the headframes and mills of the various mines, and mining technology used at Comstock, most prominently the method of square-set timbering developed there to work the veins. -T.L. Dawes (drawing); Le Count Bros., San Fransisco (lithographers)

The Comstock Lode – Nevada State Historic Monument

The Comstock Lode – NSHM #13 is Nevada State Historic Marker #13 and located in Historic Virginia City, Storey County, Nevada. Virginia City is a wonderful…
Virginia City, Nevada in 1866

The Great Fire of 1875 – Nevada State Historic Marker

The Great Fire of 1875, in Virginia City is Nevada State Historic Marker Number 228 and located in Virginia City, Nevada. With the Comstock Load…