High Noon – Virginia City, the Great Fire

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Event Series Event Series: High Noon

April 20, 2023 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

High Noon: Shootout with Neal Cobb
Virginia City, the Great Fire, October 26, 1875
Joe Curtis, Guest Speaker
April 20, 2023 – Noon

Virtual Program. Register: https://events.washoecountylibrary.us/event/10005188

Nevada Historical Society presents High Noon with Neal Cobb, a wonderful history series that delves into fascinating Nevada topics with local experts. Neal Cobb is a passionate historian and honorary curator for the Nevada Historical Society. He loves all things, Nevada. Join Neal Cobb and our monthly speakers as we explore interesting topics and join in the audience conversations.

Panorama of Virginia City, NV. 1877
Panorama of Virginia City, NV. 1877

The program will talk about the history of the Great Fire in Virginia City, 1875. We will explore the causes, effects, and rehabilitation of Virginia City as the fire destroyed approximately 75% of Virginia City at the very height of its economic apex of mining. This disaster created fear and apprehension in the state and the nation.

April Speaker: Joe Curtis

Joe L. Curtis is known as the local historian, volunteer fire chief and owner of the Mark Twain Book Store in Virginia City.

Joe L. Curtis

Joe L. Curtis

Joe spent his childhood in Carson City, and from his youth on he has been on the Comstock. He is a US Army Veteran and a graduate from the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy. He dedicated 25 years to law enforcement in Carson City, retiring as Assistant Sheriff. He has served as Storey County Volunteer Fire Department Chief for 21 years.

Joe and his wife of 53 years owned and operated the Mark Twain Bookstore in Virginia City and is recognized as a Comstock history expert.