The Marzen House Museum Board discussed a Mackay family artifact collection, development of the Marzenville outdoor display area and a proposed staff promotion during its March 11 meeting at the museum.
Board member Wendy Nelsen described a large collection of artifacts she recently obtained connected to the Mackay family, prominent figures in Nevada’s early history.
The Mackays were one of Nevada’s most influential families, led by Irish-born immigrant John William Mackay, one of the wealthy “Bonanza Kings” of the Comstock Lode.
Nelsen said the collection includes photographs, books and other materials tied to the Comstock era. She estimated the collection includes about 200 items and said she is currently cataloging and insuring the materials.
“All the wealth came from Nevada and the mines in it, and it’s coming back here,” Nelsen said.
Board members expressed interest in eventually displaying some of the materials at the Marzen House Museum as part of a special exhibit highlighting Nevada history. The Mackay family played a central role in the state’s development during the Comstock boom of the late 1800s.
The board also reviewed the museum’s proposed budget and operational priorities for the coming year.
Board chair Bonnie Skoglie said the proposed budget includes a request to promote museum manager Kelly Thompson and create a part-time position that Thompson would supervise.
“If we bring on a part-time employee that she would supervise, it makes sense to recognize the additional responsibilities,” Skoglie said.
The budget proposal also includes building improvements and operational needs, such as enclosing two stalls of the museum’s three-sided shed, replacing flooring in parts of the museum and installing new window shades to help protect artifacts.
The proposal also includes a request for $1,600 for the native cultural display.
Board member Dena Austin represents the Lovelock Paiute Tribe.
“We appreciate the museum promoting our culture, history and the tribe’s talent,” she said.
Board members also reviewed progress on Marzenville, a western-style streetscape taking shape on the museum grounds. The project includes wooden sidewalks and buildings displaying artifacts related to Lovelock’s past, including a structure highlighting the historic LaBelle brothel.
The display will include artifacts such as the original LaBelle sign, which still lights up, Skoglie said.
A railroad house planned for Marzenville will include a mercantile store, an apothecary and a mineral collection.
Community member Jim Goldsworthy said he is seeking donations of photographs and memorabilia connected to Lovelock’s railroad history for the railroad house exhibit.
“I’d love to find a photo of one of those big cab-forward locomotives in Lovelock. That’s the kind of engine Southern Pacific Railroad became famous for on Donner Pass,” he said.
In an unexpected twist, Nelsen said her father, retired judge Richard Wagner, closed the LaBelle brothel while serving as district attorney. The board hopes Wagner will symbolically reopen it during a ceremony at Marzenville.
Board member Jack Hursh announced the installation of a new exhibit by the 4-H photography club, which he leads. It includes photographs taken by young people on field trips and hikes to local historical landmarks throughout Pershing County.
Museum director Kelly Thompson reported that the museum continues to see visitors following a recent Nevada Wild episode featuring Lovelock Cave and the museum.
Kristen Gonzalez attended the meeting and briefly addressed the board, noting that she had visited the museum many years ago.
“To come back and see what you’ve done and made it into today… I absolutely love it. You’ve done a fantastic job. Thank you for inviting me to be part of the meeting,” she said.
Members also approved two new volunteers, Michelle Morris and Dora Barker, who will assist with tours and museum operations.
The board also discussed upcoming events, including Lovelock Cave Days (May 19–21), which could bring about 400 students to the museum for educational programs.
The board scheduled its next meeting for April 8 at 4 p.m.
The Marzen House Museum is located at 25 Marzen Lane and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, though donations help support exhibits and programs.
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