Snaps from the past: The Paul Laxalt State Office Building

This photo, submitted by Claudette Thompson of the Nevada Commission on Tourism, was taken in 1903. President Theodore Roosevelt gave a major speech in Carson City, where he praised water reclamation in the West six months after Congress approved the Fallon area's Newlands Project. The building was decorated in honor of his visit.

The red brick building was designed in 1888 by Architect Mifflin Bell. After completion in 1891, it served as a post office and federal courthouse until 1970. A year later the state of Nevada acquired the building and converted it into state library headquarters, which it remained for 20 years. After being remodeled, the building reopened in 1998. The Paul Laxalt State Office Building is occupied by the Commission on Tourism and Nevada Magazine.

Do you have historic

photos of Carson City?

If you'd like to share them with the community, stop by the Appeal at 580 Mallory Way or call 881-1221. Copies can also be e-mailed to editor@nevadaappeal.com. If your group is planning a sesquicentennial-related event or would like to volunteer to help with the city's celebration planned for Aug. 16, contact Lynette Cameron at 881-1245 or by e-mail at lcameron@sierranevadamedia.com.