Paul Laxalt Building

401 N Carson Street, Carson City, NV

Constructed in 1891.

The Laxalt Building was built in 1891 as Carson City’s post office and U.S. District Court, and also held a few other government agencies. The post office stayed here until 1971, when a new post office was built a few blocks away. The building was renovated and the Nevada State Library moved in. The library stayed for nearly 20 years until it, too, got a new building. Now the Laxalt Building is home to the Nevada Commission on Tourism.

The foundation being laid in 1888.

The Laxalt Building remained nameless for over a century. For the longest time it was just called “The Post Office” or “The State Library”. But finally, in 1999 at age 108, the building was dedicated in honor of former Nevada Governor and U.S. Senator Paul Laxalt.

It's also one of the most striking buildings in town, which leads to it being photographed a lot.

1900

1903, decorated to welcome Teddy Roosevelt during his visit to Carson City.

1927

1930

1960 or so. Notice the train car out front, and the railroad locomotive on display along the side.

In 1984, when it was the State Library. It's looking a little dingy around the edges.

2004, all cleaned up.

A view up the front steps.