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North Lake Tahoe Historical Society: Preserving Tahoe's Past

Discover Lake Tahoe's captivating history through Native American artifacts, pioneer stories, and historical exhibits in Tahoe City.

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The North Lake Tahoe Historical Society in Tahoe City safeguards and shares the region's captivating history. Through its museums, including the Gatekeeper's Museum and the Watson Cabin, visitors explore exhibits showcasing Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and the evolution of North Lake Tahoe.

A brief summary to North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

Local tips

  • Check the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society's website for current hours of operation, as they vary seasonally.
  • Explore the Marion Steinbach Indian Basket Collection at the Gatekeeper's Museum, showcasing intricate basketry from various Native American tribes.
  • Visit the Watson Cabin to experience a glimpse into pioneer life in the early 1900s.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The North Lake Tahoe Historical Society is located in Tahoe City and is easily accessible on foot from many points in town. From the Tahoe City Transit Center, walk west along W Lake Blvd for approximately 0.5 miles. The museum will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    The Tahoe Area Regional Transit (TART) provides bus service to Tahoe City. Disembark at the Tahoe City Transit Center and walk approximately 0.5 miles west along W Lake Blvd to reach the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society. TART fares range from $2 to $5 depending on the length of your journey.

  • Car

    If driving from South Lake Tahoe, take US-50 E to CA-89 N towards Tahoe City. Turn left onto W Lake Blvd in Tahoe City, and the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society will be on your right at 130 W Lake Blvd. Free parking is available in the vicinity, though some areas may have time restrictions.

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Discover more about North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

The North Lake Tahoe Historical Society (NLTHS), established in 1969, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of the North Lake Tahoe area. Operating three museums in Tahoe City, the NLTHS offers visitors a glimpse into the region's past, from its indigenous roots to its development as a popular resort destination. The Gatekeeper's Museum, located at 130 W Lake Blvd, is a replica of the log cabin that housed the Tahoe Gatekeeper from 1910-1912. The Gatekeeper managed the adjacent dam, which controlled the water flow into the Truckee River, delivering water to both California and Nevada. Exhibits within the museum showcase artifacts related to early Tahoe City residents and developers, as well as the Marion Steinbach Indian Basket Collection, featuring woven baskets and other materials from Native American tribes across the western US. The Watson Cabin, located at 560 N Lake Blvd, is the oldest known building in the Lake Tahoe Basin, dating back to 1908-1909. Built by town constable Robert Watson as a wedding gift for his son, the cabin was the first in the area to have indoor plumbing. Open seasonally, the Watson Cabin provides a glimpse into pioneer life in the remote Lake Tahoe area. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring historical photographs, oral histories, maps, archival documents, newspapers, and memorabilia. The NLTHS also hosts special events and educational programs, engaging visitors of all ages and making it a hub for both locals and tourists.

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