The Washoe women were noted for their intricate and artistic basket weaving and this idyllic lifestyle spanned generations of the peaceful tribe, however, it would not last.
The first European American to see Lake Tahoe was John C. Fremont, whose exploration party was led by Kit Carson in 1844.
In 1859, the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Virginia City, changed the face of the lake would affect it forever.
With mines, towns and the railroad invading the territory, wood was the primary fuel source wand was also needed to supply building materials.
The east shore, from what is now Incline Village to Glenbrook, became a vast logging empire and the ravages of clear-cutting would remain evident for years to come.
The Comstock silver lode made hundreds of people during the California and Comstock mining days and many were attracted to the pristine lake.
This was how tourism started and the resulting resorts soon to dot the lush landscape.
The Tahoe Basin managed to remain in relative obscurity with only a few people knowing about its existence until the 1950s when Bill Harrah and Harvey Gross built the first casinos on the south shore.
With their gaming expertise they learned over the years back in Reno, they knew how to attract business for their establishments and became mainstays up until today, Known as Harvey’s and Harrah’s
Back in 1960, the Winter Olympic Games were hosted at Squaw Valley on the west shore and with the resulting publicity, the area was soon recognized as a world-class winter playground, as well as the premier summer vacation venue.
The Olympic Rings still remain at Squaw Valley Resort and the place is renowned for year-round sporting activities.
So does it hurt a bit to learn about pieces of history on your Lake Tahoe vacation? Not a bit.
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