Historical Society of Dayton Valley

Information and
Membership Application

MISSION STATEMENT

The Historical Society of Dayton Valley has been established to protect, preserve and promote the historic Dayton Museum as well as Dayton area history, historic integrity, heritage and culture for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Our Society operates the Dayton Museum, which is located in an 1865 schoolhouse, the second oldest in the State. It still stands at its original location on Shady Lane at Logan. The schoolhouse served as the community's grammar school until 1959.

Dayton's museum collections include exhibits, photographs, documents, quilts, furniture and numerous artifacts depicting gold discovery, railroading, milling, mining, education culture, Native Americans, Chinese farming, ranching, the Sutro Tunnel, filming of "The Misfits" and much more....

The museum is an interesting and popular stop for locals, tourists, and classes of school children. We also have a small gift shop with Dayton related collectibles and books. Members receive a 15% discount on gift shop purchases.

Currently our museum is open on Saturday 10am to 4pm, Sunday 1pm to 4pm, and also by appointment. In May we will also be open weekdays from noon to 4 pm. (We may be completely closed in December, January, and February.) To obtain additional information or for tour availability call (775) 246-5543, (775) 246-0462, or (775) 246-0441.

Join Us! Become a member of the Historical Society of Dayton Valley!

The Historical Society of Dayton Valley is a non profit 501(c)3 organization founded and run by volunteers. No previous experience is required!

The Society is responsible not only for the historic schoolhouse/museum but also for the historic Dayton firehouse and 1860s jail, which currently is open for special events or by appointment. With the help of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce and in partnership with Lyon County we have also acquired and plan to restore Dayton's 1881 Carson & Colorado Railroad Depot (at Main St. and Hwy 50E). It is one of only three such depots still in existence and the only one in Nevada.

Six reasons to become a volunteer:
* You help preserve and share Dayton's wonderful history.
* When you get involved you give back to the community.
* You meet interesting people and broaden your horizons.
* You enrich your life and the lives of others.
* For students it puts "today" into the perspective of the past. It can also fulfill community service requirements.
(This looks great on a college application or resumé!)
* In the background or in the forefront, when you volunteer you play a vital role in keeping our history alive!

Membership Application