Washo Indians

This marker was removed for updating.  Due to budget cuts, there is no estimated date for its return. 

Long before the coming of emigrant wagon trains, this site overlooked the lands of the Washo Indians.  A valley, a town, and a county still bear their name.  A nearby trail marks their ancient route from the lowlands to Lake Tahoe and California.  The Washo language is distinct from both Shoshone and Paiute.  For many years, the Washo people remained isolated, roaming their native high Sierra and descending into the valleys for winter.  Their pine nut ceremony is still held before harvest time, with men and women working together at this enterprise.  The departure for the pine nut groves is celebrated by singing and dancing during the Pine nut ceremony called Goomsabyi.  Their basketry, now world famous, is one aspect of Washo culture that has been preserved for generations.  The beautiful work of their most celebrated artist, Dat-So-La-Lee is exhibited at the Nevada State Museum, Carson City, and the Nevada Historical Society, Reno, along with other equally talented basket weavers exhibits.

STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO. 181

STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE

WASHOE CULTURAL RESOURCES ADVISORY COUNCIL