By Greg Haas, KLAS, November 13, 2024
Gov. Joe Lombardo wants Nevada’s stories to be heard as the nation’s 250th birthday approaches, announcing America250 Nevada at a news conference at the Governor’s Mansion in Carson City on Wednesday.
“We envision participation from every corner of our beautiful state, and I trust Nevadans will rise to the occasion,” Lombardo said. “Their dedication and passion have continued to drive growth in Nevada. I hope we embrace this moment to honor our past, strengthen our present, and inspire hope for our future.”
The “Traveling Treasures” initiative will be a history program on wheels used to engage the public starting in January 2026. The Division of Museums and History will bring Nevada History to key parts of the state with an immersive experience to examine and discuss key parts of the story of Nevada and encourage visitors to envision the state’s future in 50, 100, and 250 years. Traveling Treasures will operate beyond 2026.
Lombardo highlighted the importance of 2025 as a year of planning and collaboration leading up to the semiquincentennial celebration. The America250 Nevada planning committee is preparing initiatives that will activate diverse voices in the state’s past and present, and elevate those that will carry us into the future, including:
- Nevada Story Collective: Online and in-person story-gathering events to showcase and keep Nevada’s rich stories. This storytelling event series will gather personal stories from Nevadans across the state on topics like American and Nevadan identity and life in Nevada.
- Nevada Voices Exchange Speakers Bureau: A roster of speakers, storytellers, and educators will be available to engage with schools, businesses, and communities across the state. The Speakers Bureau will focus on themes of history, art, culture, and the future of Nevada.
- Silver State Changemakers: In partnership with Nevada’s Department of Education, this program will identify specific funding needs in our schools that will make a difference in student engagement and success, and will continue beyond 2026.
- Nevada Gives Volunteer Projects: The campaign will support 36 volunteer projects – one for each state in the Union at the time of our statehood – ranging from clean-ups to art installations. Each project aims to engage surrounding communities, promote civic engagement, and foster a sense of unity among Nevadans.
- Community Calendar: There will be an online community calendar to help promote all the events happening throughout the state.
“America250 Nevada invites every Nevadan to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements, and commit to a promising future. There is much work ahead, and I ask you to join us,” Lombardo said.
“This milestone is an opportunity to celebrate what unites us as a nation. Through Nevada’s rich culture and history, we can continue to build stronger communities together. This is The Nevada Way,” Lombardo said.
The anniversary will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
For more information on America250 Nevada, visit www.america250nevada.org. For more information on America250, visit www.america250.org.