Ely, NV

Ely, Nevada is located in White Pine County in the eastern part of the state. The area where Ely stands today was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shoshone and the Paiute.

In the mid-19th century, European-American settlers began to explore the region as part of the westward expansion. However, it was not until the discovery of copper ore in 1864 that Ely started to attract attention. The discovery of copper led to the establishment of a mining camp known as Murray Station, named after a prospector in the area.

By the late 1860s, several mining camps had sprung up in the region, resulting in the creation of a central town called Ely, named after John Ely, a Vermont native who financed the town's development. Ely quickly became a hub for mining activities, particularly copper mining, and saw a rapid influx of settlers.

In 1906, the Nevada Consolidated Copper Company (NCC) was founded in Ely and became a major player in the area's mining industry. The NCC built a smelter in nearby McGill and a railroad connecting Ely and McGill to transport copper to other parts of the country. The NCC's operations provided significant employment opportunities and attracted a diverse population to Ely.

In the early 20th century, labor disputes and strikes occasionally plagued the mining industry in Ely. The most notable of these was the Great Copper Strike of 1913-1914, which brought national attention to Ely and resulted in violent clashes between labor unions and mining companies. The conflict, although eventually resolved, left a lasting impact on labor relations in the region.

Copper mining continued to play a crucial role in Ely's economy throughout the 20th century. However, by the late 20th century, the industry began to decline, leading to a significant decrease in population and economic activity. The Kennecott copper mine, the last operating mine in the area, closed in 1978.

In recent years, Ely has made efforts to diversify its economy and attract tourism. The city's rich mining history, scenic landscapes, and proximity to outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and hunting, have drawn visitors to the area. Ely also hosts various events, including the annual White Pine County Fair and the Ely Air Races, which showcase its cultural heritage and attract tourists.

Overall, Ely's history is closely intertwined with the copper mining industry that once thrived in the area. Although the mining industry has diminished, the city continues to be a symbol of Nevada's industrial heritage and a gateway to the state's scenic landscapes.

Nevada Northern Railway Museum

A historic railroad museum offering train rides and tours of an operating steam locomotive.

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

A state park featuring six beehive-shaped charcoal ovens built in the 1870s.

White Pine Public Museum

A museum showcasing the history, culture, and natural resources of the region.

Hotel Nevada and Gambling Hall

A historic hotel and casino known for its Old West charm and gaming options.

Garnet Hill

A popular spot for rockhounding, where visitors can find various gemstones and rocks.

Lehman Caves

Located within Great Basin National Park, the caves offer guided tours of stunning limestone formations.

Ely Renaissance Society Art Gallery

An art gallery featuring paintings, sculptures, and other artwork from local and regional artists.

Bristlecone Convention Center

A multipurpose event venue that hosts concerts, conferences, and other community events.

Great Basin Museum

A museum documenting the history and geology of the Great Basin region, with exhibits on Native American culture, mining, and more.

Cave Lake State Park

A scenic park with a 33-acre lake, hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and campgrounds for outdoor recreation.

The climate of Ely, NV is classified as a cold semi-arid climate. It experiences four distinct seasons with dry and mild summers, and cold and snowy winters.

Summers in Ely are generally short and warm, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s °F (around 24-26 °C) in June to the low 80s °F (around 27-28 °C) in July and August. However, temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s °F (around 32-35 °C) during heatwaves. The summer nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping into the 40s-50s °F (around 10-15 °C). Precipitation is minimal during this season, with occasional thunderstorms bringing short-lived showers.

Winters in Ely are long, cold, and snowy. Average high temperatures in winter range from the mid-30s °F (around 1-3 °C) in December and January to the low 40s °F (around 4-6 °C) in February. Temperatures can drop below freezing at night, with average lows in the teens and low 20s °F (around -7 to -5 °C). Snowfall is common, and Ely receives an average of around 70 inches (180 cm) of snow annually. Winter storms can bring heavy snowfall and blizzard-like conditions, leading to occasional travel disruptions.

Spring and fall in Ely are relatively short transitional seasons. Spring starts cold in March, with temperatures gradually warming up to the 50s-60s °F (around 10-18 °C) in May. Fall begins with mild temperatures in September, ranging from the 60s-70s °F (around 15-25 °C), gradually cooling into the 40s-50s °F (around 5-15 °C) by November. Both seasons can bring variable weather, with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms.

Overall, Ely, NV experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with colder winters and warm, dry summers. The high elevation of the area, approximately 6,437 feet (1,962 meters) above sea level, contributes to its cooler climate.

Ely is a small city located in White Pine County, Nevada. Although it is a compact city, there are a few distinct neighborhoods that contribute to its overall character. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Ely:

Downtown Ely

This is the heart of Ely, where most of the city's commercial and historic activities are centered. You will find a mix of businesses, shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks in this vibrant neighborhood. Downtown Ely captures the small-town charm and offers a range of services for residents and visitors alike.

East Ely

Located just east of downtown, this neighborhood is home to the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. It is a historic district that features well-preserved early 20th-century buildings that highlight the city's mining heritage. East Ely also has residential areas, parks, and other amenities.

McGill

Situated a few miles north of Ely, McGill is a former company town originally established by the Kennecott Copper Corporation. It offers a mix of residential areas, schools, parks, and recreational facilities. McGill has a distinct feel and history separate from downtown Ely.

Murry Canyon

Nestled on the western side of Ely, Murry Canyon is a primarily residential neighborhood consisting of single-family homes. It offers a quiet and scenic setting with easy access to natural attractions such as Murry Summit and surrounding canyons. This area is popular among outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Aultman

Aultman is a residential neighborhood located in the southwestern part of Ely. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and mobile homes. Aultman provides a quieter atmosphere compared to downtown Ely, with easy access to amenities like grocery stores and schools.

White Pine County Park

While not strictly a neighborhood, White Pine County Park is an extensive recreational area located on the outskirts of Ely. It features campgrounds, picnic areas, fishing ponds, trails, and other outdoor amenities. The park is a popular destination for locals and visitors looking to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

These are just a few of the notable neighborhoods in Ely, each offering a unique atmosphere and amenities that cater to different residents' preferences. Whether it's the historic charm of downtown, the scenic beauty of Murry Canyon, or the residential appeal of Aultman, Ely has a little something for everyone.