Volunteers work hard to keep museum running

Laurie Hickey, member of the exhibit committee of the Douglas County Historical Society, has been volunteering for two years. When she was asked to help, she agreed to research and create exhibits, even using a hammer and saw sometimes.

She and her committee have done a great job so far and are continuing to make the museum a pleasant and informative place to visit.

"There are three of us on the exhibit committee. I work with Irene Marshall and Betty Cordes," said Hickey.

"My favorite part of the museum, I think, is the Women in History room. I also love the mural by Beverly Caputo in the entryway. The Women in History room is more or less Victorian with a sofa and chair and a grand piano. There is an old record player. It shows family life with its own entertainment at the turn of the century. Along another wall, you can see what implements women would use in their kitchens. The room also contains photographs of women who lived in the area at that time.

"There have been many changes in the museum, but one of the most popular now is the mercantile store exhibit. Old timers remember many of the items displayed there for a lot of the items have been in storage and some have recently been donated. A few are on loan, but we prefer to own them.

"The Hellwinkels even donated a counter from the old Minden Dry Goods. We're going to add a Main Street with a drug store, dry goods store and barber shop downstairs. It will have an awning over the shops, just like an actual street."

The Genoa Court House Museum opened for the season in May and is part of the Douglas County Historical Society. It continues to be a popular historical place to visit for school field trips and out-of-town visitors.

"On July 14-15 we are presenting the 'Curse of the Hanging Tree,' a living history play. It starts at the Genoa Town Hall, continues at the Community Church, the jail, upstairs in the museum courtroom and the final scene takes place outside at the hanging tree," Hickey said.

Tickets are $15 and must be purchased in advance.

The Douglas County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing this exciting history by collecting and archiving items of historical significance and to provide fun and educational programs that relate to the history of Douglas County and Nevada. Membership benefits include free admission to both museums, 10 percent discount at both museum stores, a quarterly newsletter, invitations to special events, and discounts on educational programs and classes.

Individual memberships are $30, family is $40, and senior age 65-older is $20.

To become a member of the museum or for more information, visit www.historicnevada.org or call 782-2555.