Virginia City History Virginia City began in the late 1850's as gold was discovered near Six-Mile Canyon by two gold seekers. Soon aftward another discovery of gold in quartz was found. The town was named by James Finney, after his birthpalce "Old Virginny".

It was not gold, but Silver that eventually made this area famous. There was over $2,000 a ton of silver in the ore that was being mined. The resulting boom turned Virginny Town into Virginia City, the most important settlement between Denver and San Francisco. Many of the prospectors became quick millionaires resulting in the creation of a very wealth town along with mansions, imported furniture and high fashions from Europe and the Orient. Soon a railroad was built, which ran from Reno to Carson City and onto Virginia City.

At the peak of its glory, Virginia City became a boisterous town of over 30,000. There was action 24 hours a day, both above and below ground. The growing town included playhouses, many saloons and a thriving red-light district.

Today visitors can walk the street and visit the many museums, shops, restaurants, and saloons; all providing you some insight into life during the gold rush period.