
2 minute read
Welcome to Eureka, Nevada!
My name is Rich McKay and I am one of the Eureka County commissioners.

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My family has resided in Eureka since 1875 when the silver and lead mines were in full production and the town was booming. ere were over 10,000 residents that lived in Eureka and another 4,000 living 4 miles away in Ruby Hill. Eureka supported over 100 saloons, dozens of gambling halls, theaters, multiple newspapers, hotels, restaurants, an opera house, as well as five fire companies. Fun Fact - My great grandfather, Alexander McKay, was a deputy sheriff and also served as a constable. In 1878, Alexander was shot in the leg by a “stray” bullet - like many mining towns it was the Wild West. Eureka is much calmer these days, but history thrives and there is still so much to do and enjoy.
Mining has booms and busts and the population of Eureka today has closer to 1,000 permanent residents. Despite being one of the most remote towns in America, Eureka is an excellent destination for anyone interested in Nevada’s mining history and ITS WIDE OPEN SPACES.
In many ways, visiting Eureka is visually like stepping back into the late 1800s. e Victorian West buildings in our historic downtown are stunning. Almost all of the downtown businesses offer a free walking tour map – stretch your legs and get some exercise while you get a history lesson. If you have kids and they (or you) need a break, cool off at the town’s swimming pool or have a picnic lunch at the town park. If you are a mountain bike enthusiast, check out our new biking trails and take an adventurous and scenic ride on the newly marked bike trails.
We are in the midst of another mining boom and the primary mineral being mined today in Eureka County is gold. e local mines are mostly focused on exploration and expansion.
New ore deposits continue to be discovered. Recently, work has begun on a Vanadium mine South of Eureka. Vanadium is considered a critical element for battery development and steel hardening. It will be the first vanadium mine in the United States.
Eureka has some of the best schools in the State of Nevada; we very oen achieve 5 star ratings. Farming, ranching and mining are our main industries, but Eureka’s downtown business community is vibrant and growing. We offer eclectic restaurants and charming coffee shops. You can get a haircut at the Jackson House Salon or a tattoo at e Eureka Tattoo shop. You can pick up a car battery and automotive items at the Eureka Supply, fill up with gas at the Chevron, EZ Stop, or Raine’s Fuel Center and grab some groceries and camping supplies on your way out of town at Raines Market. If you don’t feel like driving and want to stay the night, we have several restaurants, four hotel/motels, RV parks, and some beautiful and historic Airbnb vacation rentals.
Aer visiting our town, you may find you love Eureka and envision your future here. My family has been here for 148 years and counting. Like many rural Nevadans, Eurekans are fiercely independent and self-reliant but they will also give you the shirt off their back if you need help. I hope you enjoy your visit to our historic Eureka, Nevada.