The Way It Was Museum

The Way it Was Museum in Virginia City, Nevada is a small museum with a large collection of artifacts that have been preserved from the era of the booming Comstock Lode. Their collection of these articles is reputed to be the most comprehensive compilation in the world. In addition to the mining items are lithographs, mineral relics, assaying equipment and a collection of old photographs and maps which come from the gold and silver frenzy era.

Although this is a small museum by comparison to those found in large, cosmopolitan areas, The Way It Was Museum offers an extraordinary anthology of information and memorabilia which gives a singular view of the Comstock West. The vintage costumes are showcased to reflect the manner in which the prospectors and townsfolk actually lived. There is also a model replicating the interior of a mine demonstrating the manner in which a gold and silver mine worked. Another scale model displays the underground shafts that run for hundreds of miles beneath the town and surrounding area.

All and all this is a fascinating view of life in Virginia City during prospecting days, right down to the china and crystal displays and dated dental chair. There is even a video for those who wish to take the time which goes into some wonderful frontier history. Historical buffs will be at home here, and for the layman this is the place to visit for a more comprehensive understanding of the era. Add the knowledgeable staff who are there to answer your questions and you have a delightful, informal ambiance where children are welcome.