Preserve Nevada

Rhyolite, Nevada

Preserve Nevada is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of Nevada's cultural, historical, and archeological heritage. The diversity of Nevada's heritage, its historical boom-and-bust cycles, the current dynamism of its economy, and its rapid growth present Preserve Nevada with unique challenges and opportunities. The Preserve Nevada Board of Directors, an experienced and committed group of preservationists, developed this effective and sustainable organization to help identify and meet the special needs of Nevada's preservation community.

Preserve Nevada brings together, from different parts of the state, a Board of Directors whose members share a common interest in preservation despite the incredible diversity of the state's geography and historical concerns. The range of perspective represented by Preserve Nevada's Board of Directors plays an important role in shaping common understanding of Nevada's preservation needs.

Firefighters combating an arson fire at the Bethel A.M.E. Church in Reno, March 25, 2004

Preserve Nevada works in close partnership with the Public History Program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. This relationship provides the expertise and outreach opportunities available at a large university, as well as needed administrative support and office space. Graduate students perform many of the duties that would otherwise be the responsibility of the organization staff, relieving some of the ongoing financial burdens that are faced by other statewide organizations. Preserve Nevada assists in the training of a new generation of preservation professionals; affiliated graduate students work closely with their Board of Directors, meet with National Trust leaders, represent Preserve Nevada at various functions, and work with both state and local governments to resolve planning and development issues. In the process, they gain access to high-level government and business leaders, providing a level of exposure that will prove invaluable in opening the doors to future career paths in preservation.

Preserve Nevada is a model for other states looking to address their preservation needs or to reinvigorate existing preservation organizations. The Preserve Nevada project builds bridges between the community and the university, education and advocacy, and methods and practices benefits all who participate.

Please check out:

Preserve Nevada's "Eleven Most Endangered Historic Places" in Nevada for 2008-2009

Preservation News and Events

for updates on preservation initiatives and events in Nevada as well as how to get involved.

The Nevada Northern Railway Complex, Ely