he Central Nevada Museum occupies a unique place in the retelling of the annals
of the West. The famous, not so famous, and infamous, all left their mark in central
Nevada: film mogul and industrial magnate, Howard Hughes; prizefighting promoter,
George "Tex" Rickard (who built Madison Square Garden); the founder of United
Parcel Service (UPS), Jim Casey; lawmen, Wyatt and Virgil Earp; the last woman to be
executed in California, Barbara Graham; the first to find silver in Tonopah, Jim Butler
and many others are represented at the Central Nevada Museum.
ur rich history, which includes mining, ranching and pioneer life, the influence of
the Western Shoshone, who were here before us, is presented in our state-of-the-art
museum. In addition, we explore and present the geology and plant life of this region.
We desire to spark children's interest in history, as well as adults; some of who have
never set foot in a museum before. We are an integral part of the community and
introduce newcomers to our part of the world, which extends to Nye and Esmeralda
counties and their surrounding areas.
e are very restricted by our small staff, which can only be in so many places at 
once - wearing only so many hats at one time. Yes, we struggle like any other 
small museum. Vision isn't the problem; it's time and staffing! So much to be done! 
We are quite pleased with what we have been accomplishing so far. CNM has a 
wonderful, constantly-growing, research library which will soon be accessible online 
for all researchers (which translates to everyone that's curious about a subject 
or person in our area). We have an extensive map and photo collection for browsing or 
locating something specific, as well as terrific displays inside and out. We enjoy 
interacting with schoolchildren and tour groups in addition to individual visitors.
e respond to research inquiries and invite you to use our research facilities. 
You can easily contribute to the preservation of our history by becoming a 
member of CNHS, which entitles you to: one historic photograph with 
descriptive caption, one issue of our annual publication,  "Central Nevada's Glorious 
Past" and a 10% discount in the CNHS Gift Shop (when visiting the museum). 
In addition, "Life Members" receive a commemorative plaque. Membership rates 
are contained in the application blank. Please feel free to request additional 
information by phone, mail or e-mail. We hope you'll join us here in Tonopah for 
our continuing adventures in the high desert of Central Nevada!