Carson City

Our Little Capitol

The Markers Statistics

So, why an eagle? And, what's in the name of Carson City? The valley we know today as Eagle Valley has one of the longest recorded histories in the Silver State. Here we have the little capitol that could, against all odds -- one that brims with stories to tell. Imagine the headlines: an elaborate flume system, old mansions decorated with wealth from the Comstock, the funding of an unexpected state capitol. All of these may be just a few stepping stones in the building of Carson City.

The area that came to be known as "Carson" has always been a favored spot among travelers, emigrants, ranchers, and wagon trains, as early as 1851. This was an area commonly referred to as a "swamp" and a "mudhole," yet the valley became an ideal place for raising cattle. Around 1858, the area's first settlers turned into lone entrepreneurs of the region who set up shop to service the vast and unsettled western reaches of then Utah Territory. Oh, and of that "eagle?" It was a hunter who christened the name, so proud of his kill he mounted the bird on a post overlooking his station.

This little city loves making due and humbles itself as one of the last classic small towns in America. Despite its mini population, Carson remains fully in charge of America's seventh largest state and in this case America, size doesn't matter ... as much as small town elegance, scenic surroundings, and oh so sweet heritage. It may not care about neon overkill, a dizzying interstate, or even a flowery self sales pitch. Carson City is simply Carson City ... with plenty of sugar and spice. 150 years can't be wrong!

(c) Joseph Sohm/Visions of America/Corbis

The Markers
The casual marker hunter will find most of Carson City's markers set right in the city's downtown strip, many of them accessible by foot only. In 2013, city planners have worked diligently in a revitalization of Carson's downtown scene, centering around a complete re-construction of Carson Street that would relieve thru-traffic and finally allow parking to take place along the downtown strip. Until then, plan to park on adjoining streets and scurrying about this little burg on foot. Park behind any of Carson Street's centrally-located casinos such as Cactus Jack's on Curry Street, the Horseshoe Club on Proctor, or even Caterpillar's on 4th Street, directly across from the State Legislature, all of which provide ready access to many of Carson's chic shops, trendy bars, and historic markers. Musser Street is another great base that offers free two-hour parking everyday along the State Capitol building in a highly centralized location!