Nevada’s first newspaper predates Nevada itself. Founded in the 1850s in Genoa, once part of Utah territory, the Territorial Enterprise later operated in Carson City and finally in Virginia City. The Enterprise’s long history in the region is only the beginning of the story.

The premier newspaper of the region, it published regularly for nearly 50 years before misfortune caused a slip in publications. After disappearing altogether, the Enterprise was resurrected in the 50’s and published the news from the same house in Virginia City for and additional 16 years.

While the paper survived fire, feast, famine, relocation, boom, and bust, it is the strong and enduring connection to former staffer Samuel Clemens, that’s Mark Twain to the rest of us, that makes the enterprise such an important part of history in the Sierra Nevada. Twain, an accomplished wordsmith and American icon, was intimately familiar with the Sierra Nevada and the robust and unique mining communities. His love for the region was evident in his writings, but also in the time he devoted to the area. Twain worked and wrote for the Territorial Enterprise for nearly two years, covering the news and events of the bustling Victorian-era town.

The final home of the Territorial Enterprise has been painstakingly restored and turned into a museum housing printing materials, Mark Twain’s desk, and other newspaper relics from the day.

Seasons Open: Year Round

Hours Open: Summer Hours: April - October 9-6 PM Winter Hours November - March 10-5 PM

Fees: Admission: Adults $3.00 Children $2.00