Genoa Courthouse Museum

Take a step back in time to the first courthouse in Nevada, 1865, fully restored with original jail, a blacksmith shop, courtroom, and exhibits specific to early Genoa.

This beautiful museum offers fascinating displays depicting early life in the Carson Valley. The Courtroom exhibit was restored using much of the original oak furniture from the Genoa and Minden courthouse. The imagination is stirred when one thinks of the trials that took place during the early days of county government. The courthouse also served as a community meeting place for political and social events.

Life for children during the 1800’s is shown in the Antique Nursery exhibit complete with the beautifully carved German-made child’s bed. Don’t miss the interesting collection of dolls.

Dat-So-La-Lee baskets are regarded by experts as among the finest examples of Native American basket weaving in the world. The Washo woman used only saplings, willow, and plant roots in her baskets, never reeds or pine needles. Many beautiful Washo baskets are on display at both Douglas County Museums.

The Snowshoe Thompson exhibit commemorates John A. “Snowshoe” Thompson (1827-1876). Thompson earned his nickname by skiing over the Sierra Nevada to carry mail to Placerville, California, and back to Genoa, Nevada.

There are many other exhibits at the museum you will want to visit – the Blacksmith Shop, the Victorian Parlor, and the Country Kitchen. Before you leave – stop in the museum gift shop where you will discover “hard-to-find” history books on the Carson Valley and early Nevada.