Through a visit to the Carson Valley Museum & Cultural Center, you can step back in time and take a journey into the past. Here you will discover the history of Douglas County – from the early days of the pioneers to the present day. Carson Valley was the green oasis for immigrants traveling through the area on their way to locations further west. However, some decided to stay and businesses, farms and ranches sprang up.

Today the exhibits in the Museum and Cultural Center focus on the American Indian to the present and on Washoe, Basques, ranching and the daily life of the pioneers. The Basque exhibit is found on the main floor and is an example of the solitary existence of a Basque sheepherding tending his herd of sheep. Part of the exhibit is a Basque tree carving which tells the sheepherder's story.

Also on the main floor, you will find vibrant murals depicting Native Americans. Native American artifacts and artwork from the Washo people are part of this exhibit. The National History exhibit features animals hunted from 1950-1970. There are several replicas of pioneer life in the Carson Valley including a Country Doctor exhibit, complete with a waiting room, and an exhibit of The Record-Courier Newspaper and the Farmers Telephone and Telegraph.

The Carson Valley Museum and Cultural Center is open year round, Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.