Frances Humphrey Lecture Series "Goldfield: Nevada's Last Boomtown" by Stephen Provost

 08/22/2024  |  06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
  Dema Guinn Concourse  |  Registration Required

Frances Humphrey Lecture Series - Adult ages 18 & up

Author Stephen Provost presents a history of Goldfield and the 20th century people who helped shape Nevada into the state it is today. Goldfield was Nevada’s last big boomtown, and for a brief time its largest city, having swelled to more than 20,000 residents after gold had been discovered there in 1903. Counted among its residents were people who left an indelible mark on Nevada history, including boxing promoter Tex Ricard, who got his start as a saloon owner there before staging heavyweight title fights for Jack Dempsey. George Wingfield, who used the fortune he made in Goldfield to become the state’s biggest banker, was instrumental in lobbying for the legalization of gambling and quick divorces. Then there was his partner, George Nixon, who owned a number of hotels, had a town named after him, and served in the U.S. Senate. In 1906, Goldfield hosted the longest lightweight championship fight in modern history. Admission is $10 for adults, members and children ages 17 and under are free.

Registration is required for this activity. Click "register" to reserve your spot.