Genoa in Douglas County, Nevada — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Originally The Raycraft Dance Hall
Photographed by Andrew Ruppenstein, July 15, 2016
1. Originally – The Raycraft Dance Hall Marker
Built: Spring of 1886 Foundation: Rock
Building Size: 80 x 33 Feet – 16 Foot Ceiling
Flooring: Best Quality Wood Available
Constructed: By the Sons of Joseph Raycraft
Joseph, acting as a wagon master for 300 souls, headed west with his family from Missouri in 1863. The Raycraft Family located in Genoa, Nevada Territory, that same year. The family opened a hotel business. A livery stable and freight business were added later. In 1886 the family began construction of the Raycraft Hall located opposite their Hotel. A dedication ball was held June 4th, 1886. A first class orchestra was engaged and the ticket price of $3.00 included and excellent supper at the Raycraft Exchange (Hotel).
On April 5, 1941, a deed was recorded from Annie Raycraft to the unincorporated town of Genoa for the hall and property. The building has since been referred to as the “Genoa Town Hall”. The hall, maintained by the town, is used for community activities such as the annual “Candy Dance”, political and civic debates, election polls, theater groups, funerals, receptions, etc.
Erected 2002 by Great Grandsons of the Raycraft Family, Thomas and Richard Raycraft.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music
this page online
Location. 39° 0.17′ N, 119° 50.763′ W. Marker is in Genoa, Nevada, in Douglas County. It is on Main Street south of Genoa Lane, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Genoa NV 89411, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the Sierra Nevada, in the Lake Tahoe Basin, and in Greater Reno Area. It is also in the American Mountain West. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain and also Mexicos Alta California.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Old Genoa Bar (within shouting distance of this marker); The Jackass Express (within shouting distance of this marker); The General Store (within shouting distance of this marker); Douglas Lodge #12, F& AM (within shouting distance of this marker); The Territorial Enterprise & the Telegraph (within shouting distance of this marker); Nevadas First Newspaper (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Genoa or Mormon Station of the Pony Express (about 300 feet away); The Pink House (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Genoa.
Photographed by Andrew Ruppenstein, July 15, 2016
2. Genoa Town Hall with Originally – The Raycraft Dance Hall Marker
The marker is visible here to the left of the entrance, with the plaque to the right of the entrance being a dedication plaque.
Credits. This page was last revised on October 18, 2020. It was originally submitted on September 23, 2016, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California. This page has been viewed 663 times since then and 27 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 23, 2016, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California.
