Winnemucca in Humboldt County, Nevada — The American Mountains (Southwest)
The Humboldt River
For thousands of years before the first Euro-Americans traveled the river, it was a thoroughfare and source of life for native peoples and wildlife. The river provided water, food, and shelter in this arid environment.
Because of its vital importance to life, Northern Paiute and Western Shoshone people consider all water, including the Humboldt River, sacred. Of particular importance to the health of the river were beavers. Beavers built dams that created ponds, wetlands and fertile meadows that were magnets for wildlife. The ponds acted as filters, purifying the water, and also provided stable water sources during periods of drought.
Large salmon-sized Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, an important food source source for Native Americans, thrived in these ponds.
Native Americans had a network of trade routes that enabled them to trade goods with other native peoples. Trade routes also served as travel routes to hunting and gathering areas. A major Native American trade route followed the Humboldt River, other routes extended to the north and south. Local Native Americans traded obsidian (volcanic glass) for items such as shells from the California and Baja California coasts. Obsidian was used to make tools while shells were used for necklaces and decoration of baskets and clothing.
Erected by Humboldt Museum, Bureau of Land Management.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Native Americans • Natural Features • Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 40° 58.618′ N, 117° 44.662′ W. Marker is in Winnemucca, Nevada, in Humboldt County. Marker is on Museum Avenue near Maple Avenue, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 175 Museum Avenue, Winnemucca NV 89445, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Winnemucca and the Humboldt River Corridor (here, next to this marker); The California Trail (here, next to this marker); Railroads and Telegraphs (here, next to this marker); The Victory Highway and Transcontinental Airway System (here, next to this marker); Explorers and Mountain Men (here, next to this marker); Pioneer Memorial Park (approx. 0.2 miles away); Winneva Building (approx. 0.4 miles away); California Trail - Trading Post (approx. half a mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Winnemucca.
More about this marker. This marker is located at the Winnemucca overlook at the Humboldt Museum.
Credits. This page was last revised on October 22, 2019. It was originally submitted on October 22, 2019, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 270 times since then and 22 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 22, 2019, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.